Hard or Cracked CasingsĪnother sign that your ammunition may have expired is the condition of the casings.Īmmo stored in unfavorable conditions, like extreme heat or cold, can cause the casings to become brittle and crack. If you notice any signs of corrosion or rust, it is advisable to discard the affected ammo to avoid potential issues during use. To identify corrosion or rust, carefully inspect the following parts of the ammo: This usually occurs when ammo is exposed to humidity and moisture over an extended period, which can cause the metal components to deteriorate. Corrosion or RustĬorrosion on the surface of your ammunition can significantly impact its effectiveness. Two key physical aspects to examine are corrosion or rust and the condition of the casings. Many factors can influence the longevity of ammunition, and several indicators can help determine if your ammo is still good to use. Remember to always follow safety guidelines and inspect your ammo before use, regardless of its age. In conclusion, the shelf life of different ammo types varies, but with proper storage, most ammunition can last for decades. When stored in ideal conditions, shotgun ammo can last for many years.įollowing the same storage guidelines for rimfire and centerfire ammo will help ensure the longevity of shotgun ammunition. Shotgun ammunition, which uses shotshells instead of cartridges, has a shelf life that is comparable to centerfire ammo. Quality storage containers can also enhance the longevity of centerfire ammo. Keep it in a cool, dry, and dark environment, maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels. To maximize the shelf life of centerfire ammo, follow the same storage recommendations as for rimfire ammunition. This type of ammunition can last for a minimum of 10 years and may last indefinitely, especially when stored correctly. Centerfire AmmunitionĬenterfire ammunition, which includes most handgun and rifle calibers, generally has a longer shelf life than rimfire ammo. Investing in quality storage containers, such as ammo cans with rubber seals, can also improve storage conditions. Maintaining consistent temperature and humidity levels can help prolong the shelf life of rimfire ammunition. Proper storage involves keeping the ammunition in a cool, dry, and dark environment. However, when stored properly, rimfire ammo can still last for decades. This is due to the more fragile nature of the rimfire primer compound. 22 LR, generally has a shorter shelf life compared to centerfire ammo. Rimfire ammunition, including popular calibers like. Shelf Life of Different Ammo Types Rimfire Ammunition Invest in quality, airtight storage containers or sealed ammo cans to protect your investment from humidity and other environmental factors.īy following these proper storage conditions, you can maintain the quality and reliability of your ammunition for an extended period. Using airtight containers can prevent moisture from entering and affecting your ammunition.Īmmo.com, adds that moisture is detrimental to the shelf life of ammo. Temperature ControlĮxtreme temperature fluctuations can wear on the primers, casings, and other components of your ammo.Ī general rule of thumb for ideal storage temperatures is between 55☏ and 85☏, as mentioned by AmmunitionToGo.Ĭonsistent indoor temperatures can help ensure the longevity and performance of your stored ammunition.Īvoid exposing your ammo to direct sunlight, heat sources, or freezing conditions. To control humidity, consider using moisture-absorbing desiccants or a dehumidifier to maintain optimal conditions. Keeping your ammunition in a cool, dry place helps prevent the buildup of rust and corrosion over time, which can affect the brass casings and other metallic components.Īccording to the American Gun Association, it’s essential to store your ammo and any related powder in a cool, dry spot, as humid and warm air can cause damage. Proper storage conditions play a significant role in determining the shelf life of ammunition.īy maintaining optimal humidity levels, temperature, and using airtight containers, you can prolong your ammo’s reliability and performance. However, it’s important to regularly check stored ammunition and practice proper storage techniques to maintain its effectiveness over time. In fact, quality ammunition stored correctly can potentially last a century or more without any significant issues. Most manufacturers guarantee their ammunition for at least a decade, but it’s not uncommon for ammo to last much longer under ideal conditions. The shelf life of ammo largely depends on the storage conditions and manufacturing practices in place. When it comes to ammunition, one question that arises is how long it remains viable for use.Īmmunition shelf life is an important factor for gun owners, as they need to ensure that their stored ammo is still functional when needed.
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