How to Store Ammunition for Long Periods of Time

Published on April 14, 2020
Duration: 25:45

This guide provides expert-level instruction on storing ammunition for extended periods, drawing on the insights of Magic Prepper. It details how to prevent corrosion and ensure reliability by selecting appropriate containers, managing moisture with desiccants like silica gel, and preparing storage solutions. The video emphasizes the superiority of sealed metal ammo cans over standard factory packaging or basic plastic boxes for long-term preservation.

Quick Summary

For long-term ammunition storage, military-style steel .50 Cal ammo cans are the superior choice due to their extreme durability and effective O-ring seals. Prepare metal cans by wiping interiors with a silicone cloth and use silica gel packs to absorb moisture, preventing corrosion and ensuring reliability.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Long-Term Ammo Storage
  2. 02:39Factory Packaging and Corrosion Risks
  3. 05:54Specialized Factory Storage Solutions
  4. 07:21Plastic Reloading Boxes and Shotgun Cases
  5. 11:35Vacuum Sealing Ammunition
  6. 13:23Comparing Ammo Can Types
  7. 18:30Preparation and Loading Techniques

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store ammunition for long periods?

For long-term storage, military-style steel .50 Cal ammo cans are highly recommended due to their durability and effective O-ring seals. Preparing the can with a silicone cloth and using silica gel packs for moisture control are crucial steps to prevent corrosion and ensure reliability.

Why is cardboard packaging bad for long-term ammunition storage?

Cardboard ammunition boxes absorb and retain moisture from the environment. This moisture leads to corrosion on the brass casings of the ammunition, potentially rendering it unreliable or unusable over extended periods.

Can plastic ammo boxes be used for long-term storage?

Some high-quality plastic dry boxes, like the MTM Survivor, offer good rigidity and seals and can be suitable. However, standard plastic reloading boxes often lack the necessary O-ring seals for true long-term, moisture-proof storage and are not ideal.

How can I prevent moisture damage to stored ammunition?

Utilize desiccants like silica gel packs within your storage containers to absorb any residual moisture. Ensure your containers have effective seals, preferably O-rings, to minimize external moisture ingress. Reactivate silica gel by baking it at 250°F for 3 hours.

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