HOw long is too long to be sitting in their brew?
Otokiak
Rankin Inlet, NU
CANADA
Keep them in the fridge--do not put on the shelf when bottled. That way they'll keep at least 2 months. I've heard 4 months, but as a firearms owner who doesn't enjoy the sh!ts I'm naturally cautious.
The trick is not to let conditions become favorable for botulism growth. Botulism likes room temperature or warmer, and high pH (above 5, say).
The brine may be less than 4 pH, but the interior of the egg is mostly sealed against infection and also against penetration by the brine. Got to love nature.
Vegetables like cucumbers & onions are more permeable, so are much less of a risk.
As with uncooked bear, pork or chicken, if the infection is not present there is no problem. Botulism is pretty much everywhere unfortunately, possibly pots & pans, on the tip of toothpicks, so make sure to sterilize jars (in the very least wash with soap & water, or boil for 10 minutes under water) and touch food as little as possible.
All that said, it's child's play. Boil the brine and use a clean jar and pickled eggs are a garden of earthly delights. Never had a problem with pickled eggs.