Ammunition sales hit historic highs in 2020, with 8.4 million first-time gun buyers entering the market¹. For this growing base of ammunition owners, understanding proper storage practices is now more crucial than ever to protect investments and maintain long-term reliability.
Here’s 12 tips every ammunition owner should know to keep their stockpile secure, stable, and ready when needed.
1. Temperature Control Is Non-Negotiable
Keep your storage area between 55°F and 75°F for optimal preservation. Consistent temperature matters more than hitting an exact number.
Extreme fluctuations can significantly impact ammunition performance and reliability, potentially affecting both accuracy and safety.
STOP BUYING GREENS: This Machine Grows $1000s Worth Automatically
✓ Set It & Forget It: Fully Automated Growing
✓ From Seed to Harvest in Days - No Experience Needed
✓ Grow Premium Microgreens Worth $50/lb Year-Round
Note: This is an affiliate link and we may earn a small commission if you purchase at no additional cost. This helps keep our website free to use.
2. Humidity: The Silent Killer
Maintain relative humidity levels below 50% in your storage area. A quality dehumidifier and hygrometer are essential investments for any serious collector.
High humidity can lead to corrosion and degradation of propellants, potentially rendering your ammunition unsafe or unreliable.
3. Airtight Containers Are Your Best Friend
Surplus military ammo cans, when properly maintained, provide excellent protection. Ensure rubber seals are intact and free from cracks to maintain an airtight environment.
Regular inspection of seals and immediate replacement of damaged ones will protect your investment for years to come.
4. Avoid Ground Contact
Store ammunition at least 6 inches off the ground to prevent moisture accumulation. Use shelving or pallets to ensure proper air circulation and protect against potential water damage.
This simple step can save thousands of dollars worth of ammunition from unexpected flooding or condensation.
5. Original Packaging Matters
Keep ammunition in original factory packaging whenever possible. Factory boxes are designed with specific humidity barriers and provide essential lot information for inventory tracking.
The original packaging also helps protect against physical damage during handling and storage.
6. Rotation Schedule Implementation
Implement a first-in, first-out rotation system. Label containers with purchase dates and rotate stock accordingly to ensure older ammunition gets used first.
This practice helps maintain fresh stock while ensuring older ammunition doesn’t sit forgotten in the back of your storage area.
7. Keep Different Calibers Separate
Use separate containers for different calibers and clearly label everything to prevent potentially dangerous mix-ups during reloading or range sessions. Organization now can prevent serious accidents later, especially in low-light conditions or emergency situations.
8. Location Selection is Critical
Store ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and potential heat sources. Basements can work but only if properly climate-controlled and protected against flooding. Consider both accessibility and security when choosing your storage location.
9. Regular Inspection Protocol
Perform monthly visual inspections of both ammunition and storage containers. Look for signs of corrosion, case deformation, or seal deterioration. Early detection of potential issues can save your entire collection from damage or degradation.
10. Silica Gel is Your Friend
Place fresh silica gel packets in storage containers yearly, but keep them from direct contact with ammunition. These inexpensive moisture absorbers provide an extra layer of protection against humidity and condensation.
11. Avoid Chemical Exposure
Keep ammunition away from cleaning supplies, solvents, and other chemicals. These substances can degrade both the cases and primers over time. Even fumes from nearby stored chemicals can potentially affect ammunition quality.
12. Document Everything
Maintain detailed inventory records. Create a simple spreadsheet tracking purchase dates, lot numbers, and storage locations. This helps with rotation and identifying any potentially problematic batches, while also helping you keep track of your investment.
Source:
1. Shooting Industry Magazine
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.