Long Term Storage of Shot Shells - Correct Protocol?

R

Rutger

CGN frequent flyer
EE Expired
Rating - 81.8%
9   2   0
Location
WestCoast
I understand that brass cartridges last practically for every. At least 50 - 60 yrs with no problems.

I had heard that shotgun shells, because they are not hermetically sealed, will go bad after awhile.

How long is "awhile", what is the best means to store them to prolong their lifespan?

Thanks.
 
They dont come with expiry dates.... properly stored I think those shells might out live their owner...


Cool, dry, no vibrations and a stable temp. those big surplus ammo cans from any surplus store or Princess Auto (cheaper) will do you a great service for storing any ammo. Just dont Fill them up and then leave them in a poor environment (wet, warm, temp fluxuation, or lots of vibrations.
 
pack them in old military ammo cans (like the .50 BMG boxes... the ones with the good rubber seal) and throw some silica gel packets in there. Other than that, cool dry place.

I keep all my ammo in those cans. Gotta go buy more to transfer the 7.62 case I just bought. No silica gel in there, but I make sure no humid boxes go in.
 
I have shot a bunch of old paper shotgun shells that were purchased at shows and estate sales. I'd estimate that many were made 30 - 50 years ago, never had one fail to fire and killed quite a bit of game with them. Modern ammo should store even better, primers and crimps are often sealed at the factory, and plastic is certainly more durable than paper.
 
In my SxS 10 I use to shoot all the Canuck 2 7/8 # 4s I could find. They were perfect for ducks. These shell we/are old and storage was usually "I found these I a box in the garage" Keep them dry & u are good to go.
 
I'm currently shooting old C-I-L ammo. Its gotta be atleast 30 years old. Works fine. If you store them in a dry place free from wild temperature swings, it'll likely outlast you.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom