Ammunition is an essential element of gun safety. Whether you use guns for hunting, shooting, or personal protection, you need quality assurance to store ammo safely. Ammunition storage is extremely important to avoid damage, contamination, or even accidental discharge. To ensure the longevity and reliability of your ammo, you need to follow the right storage procedures. In this blog post, we will discuss the right way to store ammo, which will help you keep your ammunition safe and reliable.
Temperature Control
To store ammo correctly, it is vital to control the temperature. Ammo is sensitive to high temperatures and exposure to extreme temperature changes can lead to deterioration and contamination of powder and primers. The ideal temperature range for storing ammo is between 55°F and 85°F. A stable and cool environment helps to extend the life of your ammunition while preserving its quality.
Humidity Control
Apart from temperature, humidity also plays a significant role in the storage of ammunition. High humidity levels cause the risk of rust, corrosion, and increased moisture content. This can lead to damaged cartridges and decrease the ammo’s effectiveness. The best way to tackle this humidity issue is by investing in a dehumidifier or silica gel. A dehumidifier can help to maintain the required humidity level, while silica gel packets will absorb excess moisture from the air.
Use Appropriate Containers
The type of container used for ammo storage is also an important consideration. Ideally, your ammo should be stored in containers that prevent exposure to the environment, such as moisture, heat, and sunlight. An appropriate container for ammo is made of metal, such as a steel ammo can. Steel cans are durable and have a strong seal that will keep your ammo safe and dry. Plastic ammo containers are not recommended since they can often crack, which can cause moisture to seep inside.
Avoid Exposure to Sunlight
Exposure to sunlight is another factor that can affect the quality of your ammo. UV rays can bleach the shell casings and may adversely affect the structural integrity of the bullet’s components. Therefore, it is critical to store ammo in a dark place or in a steel can to prevent sunlight exposure. By doing this, you will ensure that your ammo remains intact until it’s time to use it.
Check Ammo Regularly
Lastly, it is important to check your ammo regularly to make sure they are still viable and free of defects. It is recommended to inspect your ammo at least once every six months, especially if you store it for the long term. A professional quality assurance program always takes into account the inspection of stored ammunition. If you find any defects or damage to the cartridges, replace them immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Conclusion
Ammunition storage is a critical element of gun safety and requires careful consideration. It is vital to understand the proper way to store ammo, to ensure reliable and safe use. By keeping your ammo at the right temperature, controlling the humidity, using the appropriate storage container, avoiding exposure to sunlight, and regularly checking for defects, you can ensure that your ammo will remain reliable and effective for years to come. Remember, quality assurance is not just about checking the quality of the products before using them, it means taking care of them properly during and after use. Stay safe!
