As a responsible gun owner, it is crucial to keep your ammunition in top condition. Several factors can affect the longevity of your ammunition, including humidity, temperature, and exposure to sunlight. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can prevent your ammo from deteriorating and preserve its quality. In this blog post, we will discuss key maintenance tactics that will help you preserve your ammo.
Store Your Ammo in a Dry Place
One of the most important things you can do to preserve your ammo is to keep it away from moisture. Humidity can cause your ammo to rust, resulting in reduced accuracy and performance. To avoid this, store your ammo in a dry place. A good option is to use airtight containers, such as ammo cans, to protect your ammunition from humidity and other harmful elements. You can also use silica gel packets to absorb any excess moisture.
Manage Temperature and Sunlight Exposure
Stored ammunition is susceptible to damage from high temperatures and exposure to direct sunlight. Heat causes the gunpowder in your ammo to degrade, which can lead to misfires and decreased accuracy. To prevent this, store your ammo in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Basements, gun safes, and closets are all good options. It’s also essential to avoid storing your ammo in places that experience extreme temperatures, such as attics, garages, or cars.
Check Your Ammo Regularly
Regular checks can help you ensure that your ammo is in prime condition. Checking your ammo will help you identify any problems that may have occurred, such as humidity buildup or an excess of moisture. Ensure that you check your ammunition’s appearance, such as color and texture, every few months paying attention to the overall appearance of your ammo will be wise as well.
Be Mindful of the Age of Your Ammo
Ammo has a shelf life, so you need to keep track of how long your ammo has been in storage. If your ammo is nearing the end of its shelf life, it’s best to use it as soon as possible. Aging ammo also tends to be less reliable than fresh ammunition, typically because the gunpowder in each lasts longer with no breakdown. Keep track of the age of your ammunition so that you can cycle out old rounds and replace them with fresh ammo.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals When Cleaning
Lastly, when it comes to cleaning your ammo, it is essential to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the casing or bullet. In general, you should avoid using any chemicals if possible. If you need to clean your ammo, use a microfiber cloth. A soft cloth will wipe off any dirt or debris without leaving behind any harsh chemicals or residue. Only clean your ammo when you know that it is not damaged or has high moisture levels.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to preserve your ammo, you can take the necessary steps to keep your ammunition in top condition. Remember to keep your ammo in a dry place, manage temperature and sunlight exposure, check its appearance regularly, track its age, and avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning. By following these maintenance tactics, you can extend the shelf life of your ammo and ensure that your ammunition performs optimally while you shoot.
