Storing ammunition correctly ensures safety, reliability, and long-term performance. Whether at home or in the field, proper handling prevents corrosion, misfires, and accidental damage. Good storage habits also protect investments in high-quality rounds and keep them ready when needed most. With a few simple guidelines, anyone can maintain ammunition safely for years. These do’s and don’ts outline the best ways to keep your ammo in top condition.
Do Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Temperature and humidity have the biggest impact on ammunition lifespan. Keeping ammo in a cool, dry location prevents corrosion and degradation. Basements or garages may not always be ideal if they experience moisture fluctuations. Consistent conditions ensure primers and powder stay stable and ready for use.
Don’t Leave Ammo in Hot Vehicles
Heat can quickly ruin ammunition by breaking down powder and primers. Leaving rounds inside a car or truck, especially in summer, risks damaging performance or safety. Prolonged exposure to heat can also cause casing separation. Always store ammo indoors at a moderate temperature to maintain integrity.
Do Use Airtight Containers
Airtight containers or ammo cans with rubber seals protect against moisture and dust. Adding silica gel packets helps absorb any remaining humidity. Proper sealing keeps out air that could tarnish brass or corrode steel casings. Organized, sealed storage ensures rounds remain reliable and clean even after years of sitting.
Don’t Store Near Chemicals
Strong cleaning agents, oils, or fuels can contaminate ammunition over time. Their fumes may react with metals or primers, affecting performance. Keeping ammo separate from garages or workshops filled with chemicals avoids this issue. A dedicated shelf or cabinet for ammo storage helps maintain safe separation.
Do Label Ammo Clearly
Labeling boxes or containers makes identification easy and prevents mix-ups between calibers. Writing down purchase dates also helps track age and rotation. Organized labeling saves time during reloading, packing, or range preparation. Simple markings make a big difference in staying consistent and safe with handling.
Don’t Mix Calibers
Mixing different calibers in one box can lead to dangerous mistakes. Accidentally loading the wrong round may cause firearm damage or injury. Storing each type in its own labeled container keeps things clear. Maintaining separation also helps with inventory control and reduces confusion during range days.
Do Rotate Old Stock
Ammunition lasts for years, but it’s still smart to use older rounds first. Rotating stock ensures nothing sits too long and reduces the risk of aging powder or primers. New boxes should always go to the back of storage areas. This system keeps supplies fresh and dependable every time they’re needed.
Don’t Store Near Heat Sources
Heaters, radiators, or fireplaces should never share space with ammunition. Prolonged exposure to warmth accelerates degradation and weakens components. Safe storage means keeping ammo away from any consistent heat source. Even small increases in temperature over time can reduce lifespan and dependability.
Do Keep Ammo Off the Floor
Storing ammo directly on concrete floors can expose it to dampness or fluctuating temperatures. Shelves or pallets lift boxes safely and improve airflow. This small precaution helps prevent corrosion and keeps packaging intact. Elevating ammo is one of the easiest ways to extend its longevity.
Don’t Store in Plastic Bags
Plastic bags trap condensation and can promote corrosion, especially in humid environments. Without proper airflow, moisture buildup becomes a long-term threat. Hard containers or sealed cans are far safer options. Avoiding plastic ensures ammo remains clean, dry, and fully functional when it’s time to shoot.
Do Inspect Regularly
Checking stored ammunition every few months prevents surprises. Look for signs of corrosion, discoloration, or cracked casings. Spotting problems early allows replacement before performance suffers. Regular inspection keeps the stock reliable and ensures confidence each time a round is chambered.
Don’t Handle with Bare Hands
Skin oils and moisture can leave residue that promotes corrosion on brass or steel. Using gloves or handling with clean, dry hands protects surfaces. This small habit adds years of shelf life to stored rounds. Proper handling maintains a professional level of care and safety.
Do Store in the Original Packaging
Original factory boxes protect ammo from vibration and exposure. They also make caliber identification easier. Manufacturers design packaging to preserve rounds safely, so keeping it intact reduces risk. Unless reloading, storing in original boxes keeps ammo in its most secure form.
Don’t Store Loaded Magazines Long-Term
Leaving magazines loaded for months can stress springs and affect feeding reliability. Rotating loaded magazines periodically keeps components functional. Storing ammo separately from magazines ensures both last longer. Short-term readiness is fine, but long-term storage works best when separated.
Do Keep Ammo Away from Children
Proper ammo storage always includes safety for others. Locked cabinets, safes, or ammo boxes prevent access by children or unauthorized individuals. Responsible storage protects everyone in the household. Secure containment is as essential as proper temperature or humidity control.
Don’t Ignore Expiration Dates
Although ammo doesn’t spoil like food, age can still affect reliability. Powders and primers slowly degrade, leading to weak ignition or misfires. Checking manufacturer dates and cycling through old stock ensures dependable performance. Staying mindful of age keeps every shot consistent and safe.
