Ammo longevity is one of the most important factors in maintaining firearm safety. Improperly stored ammunition greatly reduces the capacity to function correctly or leads to severe damage, thus putting the users’ lives at risk. In this article, we’ll be discussing the importance of proper storage and how it affects the longevity of your ammunition.
Temperature and Humidity Control
Temperature control and humidity regulation are critical factors in ensuring the longevity of ammunition. Excess heat and humidity can create excessive pressure within the cartridge, leading to degradation and misfires. In addition, exposure to UV rays and sunlight can damage the primer, causing it to deteriorate quickly. Therefore, it’s essential to store your ammunition in a place that is dry, cool, and free of direct sunlight. Gun safes and storage containers are good examples of secure storage.
Keep Ammunition Clean
Dirt, debris, and corrosion can negatively impact ammunition performance and safety. As much as possible, do not store your ammo in dirty or dusty conditions. Before storing, ensure that your ammunition has no oil residue or other contaminants. It’s also essential to check the storage container for cohesion and rust regularly.
Organize Your Storage
Proper storage goes beyond merely keeping your ammo in the right place; it includes organizing them properly. Proper organization helps prevent accidental misfiring and allows for easy access when needed. Consider different types of ammo, bullet sizes, and capacities as you organize.
Store Ammo Separately
Storing pistol and rifle ammunition separately results in improved safety measures and maintains the quality of the cartridges. It’s essential to understand the calibers, grains, and powder types in which your ammunition is available. In addition, storing different types of ammo together can create friction that may lead to misfires.
Inspect Your Ammunition Regularly
Inspecting your ammunition regularly is vital. This becomes even more important if your ammo has been sitting for a while. Excessive storage time can lead to cartridge corrosion and detract from the ammo’s overall quality. Inspection helps in identifying variances and checking for damages, ensuring that your ammunition is still functional and revealing other potential issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper ammo storage and longevity go hand-in-hand. The role of proper storage is huge in maintaining your firearm’s safety, longevity, and overall functionality. Remember that temperature and humidity regulation, proper organization, and separate storage are all crucial elements in proper storage. Regular inspection will also help in identifying potential safety hazards and problematic ammo. By following these tips, you can protect your ammunition and ensure a safer firing experience while maintaining performance standards.
