Does ammunition expire?

Does ammunition expire?

Ammunition doesn’t “expire” per se, but the gunpowder looses potency over time. The largest risk to shooting old ammunition isn’t a failure to fire, it’s the risk that you will actually fire the shot and it doesn’t have enough momentum to make it out the barrel.

Is it safe to store bullets?

Ammo should be stored somewhere cool and dry.” Extreme temperature swings can wreak havoc. The more you handle ammo, the more likely it is to become damaged. If you know it will be a while before you head to the range, keep your rounds stored in the original boxes.

What is the shelf life of 9mm ammo?

It’s just smart policy. Fact is, all modern ammo will last more than 10 years if it’s been stored reasonably well.

Where Should bullets be stored?

It is highly recommended that you don’t store your ammo in damp basements, on or in the ground, or anywhere on the floor. The best place to store your ammunition is in an air-tight, water-tight ammo container. Just remember that when it comes to storing your ammo the drier the environment the better.

Is it OK to store ammo loose in ammo cans?

Preserving the Shelf Life of Your Ammo You shouldn’t have too much of a problem storing ammo around your house. As long as you keep them away from moisture and extreme heat, your rounds should be fine. Fortunately, ammo cans are a great way to keep your ammunition protected against moisture.

Can you store ammo in Tupperware?

Ammo Storage Containers You don’t have to purchase the most expensive one on the shelf, in fact, any airtight container will work. Others will use household containers like Tupperware. Adding moisture-absorbing packets (desiccants) to the container will help with the humidity.

Can you shoot corroded ammo?

TooManyToys Member. If the corrosion your speaking of is just fuzzy stuff on the bullet itself, just wipe it clean and you should be OK. Dark discoloration of the surface of the brass isn’t a problem either.

Can you store bullets in the garage?

The garage isn’t a good place to store your ammo because of the heat and temp swings from day/night and day to day. It’s not that your ammo is going to ignite, because the flash point is much higher than the garage will ever get. But the temps can cause some deterioration of the compounds binding the powders together.

Do you think there is a shelf life for ammunition?

Answer: Yes, I think there is a shelf life for ammunition which, with proper care can be extended. Store it in a cool, dry place. Ammunition seems to lose accuracy when it’s stored where there is high humidity.

What’s the best way to store old ammunition?

Whether new or old, there are some unifying factors to consider when storing ammunition to ensure nothing goes to waste. The basic rule for ammunition storage is to keep it in a cool, dry, and dark place with limited air exposure, as extreme temperatures, humidity/moisture, and air exposure are the three primary causes for ammunition degradation.

How long does smokeless powder ammunition last for?

These primers – when not exposed to ammonia or corrosive agents – can effectively last for quite some time. NOTE: A general definition of modern ammunition is any ammunition produced with smokeless powder after the 1930s.

What happens to ammunition when it dries out?

When the grease dries out, it will look white and chalky. This will happen when ammunition is old or has not been properly stored. You need grease on the bullet because the bullet must lubricate the barrel as it is fired in order to maintain accuracy.