As a gun owner, it’s essential to know how to store and preserve your ammo to ensure it lasts for a long time. Gun enthusiasts need to understand that ammo has a limited lifespan, and if not stored correctly, it will degrade over time, rendering it useless. Proper storage is crucial to extending your bullet’s shelf life, and this blog will guide you through the steps you need to follow to increase your ammo’s longevity.
Keep Your Ammo in a Controlled Environment
The ideal storage condition for bullets is a cool and dry environment with moderate humidity levels. The right temperature range is typically between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with humidity levels ranging from 35% to 60%. These environmental factors are vital in preserving the quality of the ammunition.
Choose the Right Containers
Ammo cases are the best containers to use for storing bullets. Plastic and wooden boxes can work as well, but they may not hold up as long. Ensure the containers you use are air and water-tight to prevent air and moisture from entering the bullet’s container. Humidity is ammo’s greatest enemy, and moisture and oxygen can cause rust, which will damage the bullet.
Store the Ammo Correctly
Avoid storing ammo in hot areas or placing it in direct sunlight. Heat is the most damaging factor in ammo degradation, and prolonged exposure to high temperatures will cause damage to the bullet casing, primer, and gunpowder. Additionally, storing boxes of ammo in the trunk or backseat of a vehicle will expose it to significant temperature variations that can damage the bullet.
Rotate Your Ammo
It’s essential to fire old ammo and replace it with fresh stock after a specific period. Experts recommend using the ‘first in, first out’ rule to ensure you use the oldest bullets first. Additionally, firing ammo stored for too long can cause the casing, primer, and gunpowder to degrade, making it less reliable and possibly dangerous.
Keep Ammo Clean
Dirt and debris can interfere with bullet performance. Before storing your ammo, ensure that the bullets are free from any external dirt, corrosion, or other contaminants that may damage the bullet. You can clean the bullet using a mild solvent and lubricant to keep it in top condition.
Conclusion
As a gun owner, it’s essential to protect and preserve your ammunition. Proper ammo storage is a game-changer in ensuring bullets last for a long time without degrading. Always remember to store your ammo in a cool, dry place, in the correct containers, and avoid extreme temperatures. You should also rotate your ammo and perform routine maintenance to keep it in pristine condition. By following these simple tips, you’re sure to boost your ammo’s shelf life, ensuring that it stays reliable when you need it the most.
