Ammunition Storage Guide

Proper storage ensures your ammunition remains safe, reliable, and ready when you need it.

Temperature: 55-85°F ideal

Humidity: Below 60% RH

Light: Dark storage

Shelf Life: 10-20+ years

Storage Rules

Temperature Control
Critical

Store at stable temperature, ideally 55-85°F. Avoid extreme heat (over 150°F) which can degrade powder and primers.

Keep It Dry
Critical

Humidity is ammunition's enemy. Store below 60% relative humidity. Use desiccants in storage containers.

Original Packaging
High

Keep ammo in original boxes when possible. They're designed to protect rounds and identify contents.

Avoid Direct Sunlight
High

UV exposure can degrade cartridge cases and sealants over time. Store in dark location.

Indoor Storage
High

Store inside climate-controlled space. Garages, sheds, and attics experience extreme temperature swings.

Secure Location
Critical

Store in locked container or room, away from unauthorized access, especially children.

Label Everything
Medium

Mark containers with caliber, quantity, and purchase date. First in, first out rotation.

Fire Safety
High

Keep away from heat sources, open flames, and solvents. Consider fire-resistant storage for large quantities.

Storage Containers

Military Ammo Cans

Surplus or new metal ammo cans with rubber gasket seals. The gold standard for ammo storage.

Pros:
  • Airtight seal
  • Durable metal construction
  • Stackable
Cons:
  • Heavy when full
  • Need to check gasket condition
  • Can rust if damaged

Best For: Long-term bulk storage

Tip: Add desiccant packet. Check gasket seal. Store off concrete floors.

Plastic Ammo Cans

Modern plastic alternatives to metal cans. Lighter weight with good sealing.

Pros:
  • Lightweight
  • Won't rust
  • Often transparent
Cons:
  • Less durable
  • Can crack in cold
  • May not seal as well long-term

Best For: Range ammo, rotation stock

Tip: Choose quality brands (MTM, Plano). Check seal integrity regularly.

Original Factory Boxes

Keep ammunition in original retail packaging inside larger containers.

Pros:
  • Identifies contents
  • Designed for cartridge
  • Lot numbers visible
Cons:
  • Not airtight
  • Can absorb moisture
  • Takes more space

Best For: Inside ammo cans, identification

Tip: Store factory boxes inside ammo cans with desiccant for best protection.

Gun Safe with Dehumidifier

Store ammunition alongside firearms in climate-controlled safe.

Pros:
  • Secure storage
  • Climate controlled
  • Convenient access
Cons:
  • Limited space
  • Weight considerations
  • Expensive solution

Best For: Ready ammunition, moderate quantities

Tip: Use a GoldenRod or similar dehumidifier. Don't overcrowd the safe.

Ammunition Shelf Life

Ammunition Type Expected Shelf Life Notes
Factory Brass Centerfire 10-20+ years Properly stored, modern factory ammo can last decades. Military surplus from WWII still shoots today.
Factory Steel Case 10-15 years Slightly less than brass due to potential corrosion. Check for rust before shooting.
Rimfire (.22 LR) 5-10 years More susceptible to moisture. Priming compound can degrade. Rotate stock regularly.
Reloaded/Handloads Varies Depends on components and storage. Generally use within 2-5 years. Document load data.
Military Surplus 20-50+ years Often sealed with lacquer. Check for corrosion. Some surplus is decades old and shoots fine.
Shotgun Shells 5-10 years Plastic hulls and wads can degrade. Paper hulls absorb moisture. Inspect before use.
Ideal Storage Setup
Location:
  • Climate-controlled room (bedroom closet, interior room)
  • Away from water heaters, furnaces, and HVAC
  • Off the floor on shelving or pallets
  • Away from direct sunlight
Container Setup:
  • Factory boxes inside military ammo cans
  • Desiccant packet in each can
  • Labels with caliber, quantity, and date
  • Vacuum seal for long-term storage

Common Mistakes

Storing in garage/attic

Why: Temperature extremes and humidity fluctuations degrade ammo quickly.

Fix: Store in climate-controlled living space.

Direct concrete floor contact

Why: Concrete wicks moisture and causes condensation on metal containers.

Fix: Place on pallet, shelf, or rubber mat.

Mixing loose rounds

Why: Different calibers can look similar. Wrong ammo in wrong gun is dangerous.

Fix: Keep in labeled containers. Never mix calibers.

Forgetting desiccants

Why: Even sealed containers can have moisture. Desiccant absorbs it.

Fix: Add fresh desiccant packets. Replace yearly.

Storing near solvents

Why: Gun cleaning solvents can penetrate primers and cause misfires.

Fix: Store ammo separately from cleaning supplies.

No rotation system

Why: Oldest ammo should be used first to maintain fresh stock.

Fix: Date your purchases. Use FIFO (First In, First Out).

Before Shooting: Inspect Your Ammo

Look For:

  • Corrosion or green/white deposits on brass
  • Dents, bulges, or deformations
  • Loose bullets (rotate in case)
  • Discoloration of brass or primer

If Found:

  • Minor tarnish is usually okay
  • Active corrosion = do not shoot
  • Damaged rounds = dispose safely
  • When in doubt, don't use it
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and local regulations regarding ammunition storage. Never attempt to repair or reload damaged ammunition.