Can you store ammo in the box?

As an SEO writer, I will provide quick answers to questions in the opening paragraphs to optimize for search engines. The rest of the article will provide more detailed information and analysis to thoroughly answer the title question – can you store ammo in the box?

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

Yes, you can store ammunition in boxes, provided the boxes are designed for that purpose. Ammunition storage boxes are specifically engineered to safely hold ammunition for short or long term storage.

What types of boxes can you use to store ammunition?

There are several types of boxes designed specifically for storing different kinds of ammunition:

Plastic ammo boxes – Made of durable, high impact plastic. Water and rust proof. Often have dividers and stacking capability. Good for protecting ammo from elements.
Metal ammo cans – Sturdy, lockable steel cases. Protect ammo from damage. Help prevent moisture. Useful for transport.
Wood ammo crates – Typically used for bulk ammo storage and transport. Durable, breathable material.

Cardboard boxes – Not ideal for long term ammo storage due to breathability. But inexpensive and stackable.

The most common and recommended options are plastic ammo boxes or metal ammo cans. Both provide excellent protection for ammunition against damage, rust, corrosion and other environmental factors.

What factors should you consider when choosing an ammo storage box?

Here are some key considerations when selecting an ammunition storage box:

Material – As mentioned above, plastic and metal are best for protecting ammo.
Size – Choose a box that fits the quantity and type of ammo you need to store.
Portability – If you need to transport ammo, pick a lightweight, manageable box with handle.

Lockable – Lockable metal boxes add extra security and prevent accidental openings.
Climate conditions – If storing ammo outside, ensure the box is waterproof and rustproof.
Ventilation – Proper airflow prevents moisture buildup inside the box.

Consider your specific storage needs and choose the box that best fits your situation.

What are the benefits of storing ammunition in a box?

Storing ammo in a proper storage box offers these key benefits:

Protection – Boxes shield ammo from elements like moisture, dust, etc. This prevents corrosion and damage.

Organization – Boxes keep ammunition neatly organized instead of loosely scattered.
Stackability – Most boxes are designed to stack together to save space.
Portability – Secure handles make boxes easy to transport ammunition.

Safety – Boxes prevent accidental spills, explosions, children accessing ammo.

Overall, ammunition storage boxes provide vital protection and organization to maintain the quality and safety of ammo.

What are the risks of improperly storing ammo in boxes?

Storing ammunition improperly in boxes could lead to some serious risks:

Fire hazard – Excessive heat or humidity can cause ammo to degrade and become volatile.
Explosion – Exposure to flames or sparks could ignite ammunition and cause an explosion.
Corrosion – Moisture causes ammo brass and shells to corrode over time.

Misfires – Damaged or corroded ammunition may misfire or fail to fire later on.
Accessibility – Unlocked boxes can allow unauthorized access to dangerous ammunition.

To minimize these risks, be sure to use moisture-proof and properly ventilated boxes. Avoid extreme high/low temperatures. Keep boxes locked for security.

What are the best practices for storing ammunition in boxes?

Follow these best practices when using boxes to store ammunition:

Use plastic or metal ammo boxes instead of cardboard.
Make sure boxes are clean and dry before adding ammo.

Pack boxes correctly without overfilling to avoid crushing rounds.
Label boxes clearly with caliber/type of ammunition stored.
Stack boxes neatly in a cool, dry place like a closet or cabinet.

Ensure no heat, flame, or spark sources are nearby.
Inspect boxes and ammunition occasionally for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Keep boxes locked and restrict access only to trusted adults.

Carefully following these best practices enhances safety and extends the shelf life of your ammunition.

How long can you store ammunition in boxes?

With proper storage, ammunition can be safely kept in boxes for many years. Here are the typical lifespan estimates for ammo stored using best practices:

Plastic ammo boxes – 10-25 years or longer.

Metal ammo cans – 25 years and over.
Factory-sealed spam cans – Up to 50+ years.

The shelf life depends on factors like:

Storage container quality – plastic or metal boxes last longer than cardboard.
Environmental conditions – cool, dry, stable conditions extend lifespan.
Ammunition type – rimfire ammo lives shorter than centerfire ammo.

Handling/maintenance – periodic inspections and rotation prolong usability.

With decent storage methods, most ammo stays good for at least a decade before starting to degrade.

Do humidity and temperature affect ammo storage?

Yes, humidity and temperature are both major factors influencing ammo shelf life in storage boxes.

Humidity – Moisture causes metal ammo components to corrode and wood boxes to swell or warp. Ideal humidity for ammo storage is less than 70%. Using watertight plastic or metal boxes helps protect ammo from humidity damage.

Temperature – High heat can destabilize gunpowder and damage casings over time. Low cold can also gradually impact propellant burn rates. Stable room temperature between 50-80°F gives longest shelf life.

Avoiding temperature extremes and moisture by using sealable, non-porous boxes provides optimal ammo storage conditions. Add desiccant packs if humidity is very high.

Do you need any special tools to load ammo boxes?

Loading ammunition into storage boxes is quite straightforward. No special tools are needed – just place ammo neatly into appropriate boxes. Useful tips include:

Wear gloves to avoid fingerprints on shiny ammo.
Pack boxes based on ammo type/caliber – don’t mix and match.

Stack rounds vertically, don’t lay flat.
Avoid overpacking boxes too tightly.
Write caliber/quantity on box label.

Use dividers/grids if available to separate rows.

The right ammo packing density keeps rounds secure while allowing easy removal. Box dividers and labels help organize mixed ammo. Proper loading keeps ammunition safe until ready for use.

What are some creative ammo storage options besides boxes?

While plastic and metal boxes are the go-to choice, there are some other creative ammunition storage solutions including:

Vacuum sealing – Use a food sealer on ammo packs to remove air and moisture.
PVC pipes – Seal each end and bury underground for discreet outdoor storage.
Surplus ammo cans – Reuse military/surplus .50 cal and 20mm cans.

Plastic coffee cans – Screw lids on tightly to waterproof containers.
Dry food storage buckets – Sealable buckets work for bulk ammo.
Hidden shelves/compartments – Conceal ammo discreetly around home.

With some creativity, many common containers can substitute for commercial ammunition boxes.

Conclusion

Proper ammunition storage in boxes is vital to protect ammo safety and quality over time. Purpose-designed plastic and metal boxes offer optimal protection against damage, rust, corrosion and other environmental threats. By carefully selecting moisture-proof, durable boxes and practicing sound storage methods, ammunition can remain potent and reliable for decades.

Following best practices like restricting access, avoiding temperature extremes and inspecting ammunition periodically ensures your ammo supply stays ready for use whenever needed. Do your due diligence choosing proper storage boxes and conditions for your ammunition, and you can confidently rely on it being there in good condition when you are.