Introduction
As gun owners, we all want to ensure our firearms and ammunition are stored safely and properly. One question that often arises is whether or not it is safe to store ammunition in ziplock bags. While some may argue in favor of this method, others may have concerns about the potential risks. In this blog post, we will explore various factors and considerations to help you make an informed decision on the best way to store your ammunition.
What is the best container to store ammo in?
There are several options for storing ammunition, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Firstly, metal ammo cans provide excellent protection against moisture and are durable, but they can be heavy and difficult to transport. On the other hand, plastic containers are lightweight and easier to transport, but they may not provide as much protection against moisture. Additionally, vacuum-sealed bags can offer an extra layer of protection against moisture, but they are not as convenient to access as other options. Ultimately, choosing the best container to store ammo depends on individual preferences and needs.
Storing Ammo in Ziplock Bags
Ammunition is an essential component for any gun owner, but proper storage is just as important as purchasing the right type of ammo. Improper storage can lead to damage, rust, and even accidents. One solution that has gained popularity is storing ammo in ziplock bags. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of storing ammo in ziplock bags and provide some tips on how to do it safely.
Convenience and Practicality
One of the most significant advantages of storing ammo in ziplock bags is convenience. Ziplock bags are easy to find and purchase, and they come in various sizes to accommodate different amounts of ammunition. They are also very affordable, so you can stock up on them without breaking the bank.
Ziplock bags are also practical because they are made of durable plastic that protects your ammunition from moisture, dust, and debris. They are also easy to label, so you can quickly identify the type of ammo and the date of purchase. This makes it easier to rotate your ammo and ensure that you are using the oldest stock first.
Safety Considerations
While storing ammo in Ziplock bags is convenient and practical, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some tips to help you store your ammo safely:
1. Don’t overfill the bags: Overfilling Ziplock bags can cause them to burst or tear, which can damage your ammunition.
2. Use the right size bag: Make sure to use a bag that is big enough to hold your ammo comfortably. Using a bag that is too small can put pressure on the ammo and cause damage.
3. Keep the bags clean: Make sure to keep your hands clean when handling your ammo and ziplock bags. Any dirt or debris on your hands can get inside the bags and damage your ammo.
4. Store in a cool, dry place: It’s important to store your ammo in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and moisture can cause damage and corrosion.
Why Store Ammo in Ziplock Bags?
There are many reasons why you might want to store your ammunition in ziplock bags. Whether you are a seasoned gun owner or just starting out, it’s important to understand the benefits of using ziplock bags to store your ammo.
Firstly, ziplock bags are a great way to protect your ammunition from moisture and humidity. Ammunition can be affected by humidity and moisture, causing it to degrade over time. This can lead to misfires or even dangerous malfunctions when using your firearm. By storing your ammo in ziplock bags, you can protect it from moisture and humidity, keeping it in top condition when you need it.
Another benefit of using ziplock bags for ammo storage is organization. Keeping your ammo organized is important, especially if you have multiple calibers or types of ammunition. Ziplock bags can be labeled and easily stored in an ammo can or other safe storage container, making it easy to find what you need when you need it.
Ziplock bags are also a cost-effective solution for ammo storage. Traditional ammo storage containers can be expensive, and buying multiple containers for different types of ammo can add up quickly. Ziplock bags, on the other hand, are affordable and can be purchased in bulk, making it easy to store all of your ammunition without breaking the bank.
Finally, using ziplock bags for ammo storage can be a great way to protect your investment. High-quality ammunition can be expensive, and storing it improperly can lead to wasted money and time. By using ziplock bags, you can ensure that your ammo lasts as long as possible, saving you money in the long run.
Recommended Ammo Storage Guidelines
As a responsible gun owner, it is important to not only properly handle and operate your firearms but also to store your ammunition in a safe and secure manner. Proper ammunition storage not only extends the shelf life of your ammo but can also prevent accidents and ensure that you are always prepared for any situation that may arise. In this article, we will outline some recommended ammo storage guidelines that you can follow to ensure that your ammunition stays in good condition for as long as possible.
Begins With Your Purchase
The first step in proper ammunition storage is to start with your purchase. When buying ammunition, it is important to choose a reputable brand and supplier. You should also pay attention to the packaging of the ammunition, ensuring that it is not damaged, corroded, or dented. Any of these signs of damage can be an indication of compromised ammunition, which can be dangerous to use.
Label And Rotate Your Ammunition
Proper labeling and rotation are other important aspects of ammunition storage. You should label your ammunition with the date of purchase, as well as the type and caliber of the ammunition. This will help you keep track of your inventory and ensure that you are using the oldest ammunition first. You should also rotate your ammunition on a regular basis, using the first in, first out (FIFO) method.
Storing In Cooler Temperatures
Ammunition should be stored in a cool, dry place. High temperatures can cause the ammunition to degrade and can even cause the gunpowder to become unstable. It is recommended that you store your ammunition in an area that is no warmer than 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also avoid storing your ammunition in direct sunlight or near sources of heat, such as radiators or heaters.
Use Clay Desiccants Or Silica Gel Packets
Humidity can also be a factor in proper ammunition storage. Moisture can cause the ammunition to corrode and can even cause the gunpowder to become damp, which can lead to misfires. To combat humidity, you can use clay desiccants or silica gel packets in your ammunition storage containers. These products absorb moisture and can help keep your ammunition dry.
Schedule Frequent Ammunition Checks
Finally, it is important to regularly check your ammunition for signs of damage or deterioration. You should inspect your ammunition for any dents, corrosion, or discoloration, as well as any signs of leaking or damage to the packaging. If you notice any of these signs, you should dispose of the ammunition properly and replace it with new ammunition.
Loose Ammo
Loose ammo is cheaper than boxed ammo. You can usually find it at a lower price per round. Loose ammo is also more convenient to carry with you. It’s easier to just throw a couple of loose rounds in your pocket than it is to carry a whole box of ammo.
Easier to access
One of the main reasons people choose to store their ammunition loose is because it’s easier to access. If you need to grab a few rounds quickly, you can just grab them from a storage container without having to fiddle with opening a box. This can be especially helpful if you need to reload your firearm quickly in an emergency situation.
Another advantage of storing ammo loose is that it’s easier to keep track of how much you have. If you have a lot of different types of ammunition, it can be difficult to keep track of how many boxes you have of each type. When everything is stored in one place, it’s easy to just count the number of rounds you have.
Loose ammo can also be less expensive than boxed ammo because you don’t have to pay for the packaging. This is especially true if you buy your ammunition in bulk.
However, there are some disadvantages to storing ammo loose. One is that it can be more difficult to transport if you need to move it from one location to another. Ammo boxes are designed for easy transport, but if you have loose rounds, they can roll around and become damaged or lost.
Another downside is that loose ammo can be more dangerous than boxed ammo because there is no packaging to contain a round if it accidentally fires. This is why it’s important to always store your ammunition in a safe place where children and pets cannot reach it.
More versatile
One of the most popular questions we get here at Lucky Gunner is whether it’s better to store ammo loose or in the box. And, like most things related to guns and shooting, the answer is…it depends!
There are pros and cons to both methods, so let’s take a closer look:
Storing Ammo in the Box
PROS:
-Protects your rounds from damage
-Makes it easy to see how many you have
-Allows you to stack multiple boxes for efficient storage
-Prevents rounds from rolling around and getting lost
CONS:
-Takes up more space
-Can be difficult to access rounds quickly
-Can be more expensive if you buy pre-packaged ammo
Storing Ammo Loose
PROS:
-Ammo is easier to access
-You can fit more rounds in a smaller space
-Loose ammo is less expensive than packaged ammo
CONS:
-Ammo is more vulnerable to damage
-Rounds can roll around and be lost
Boxed Ammo
Ammo can last a lot longer when it is stored in the right way. One of the best ways to store ammo is in a watertight ammo box. When ammo is stored in a box, it is better protected from the elements and from being jostled around. This can help to keep your ammo in better condition for longer.
More organized
Organizing your ammo into a neat and tidy box makes it much easier to grab what you need and go. This can be helpful if you are in a competition or just want to make sure you have all the same types of ammo before heading to the gun range. This also helps if you are traveling with your firearms and ammunition, as it will make things less likely to get lost or damaged en route.
More protected
A lot of people don’t realize that storing ammunition in its original box is the best way to protect it from the elements. The box will keep the ammo dry and free from dirt and debris, and if you store it in a cool, dry place, your ammo should stay in good shape for many years.
If you cannot find an answer on our website to your question, feel free to message or call us!