Introduction
It’s a question that plagues many hunters and shooters: do shotgun shells go bad? The simple answer is yes, they can go bad. But there are a lot of factors that contribute to how long your shotgun shells will last. In this guide, we’ll help you understand everything you need to know about how long shotgun shells last and what causes them to go bad.
What Causes Shotgun Shells to Go Bad?
There are many causes of shotgun shells going bad. The most common is improper storage. If you store your shotgun shells in a humid environment, they will corrode. Additionally, if you store them in a place that is too hot or too cold, the powder can separate from the shot and cause the shells to be less effective.
Poor Storage Conditions
Shotgun shells can go bad for a number of reasons. The most common is poor storage conditions. Hot, humid, or damp conditions can cause the shells to corrode, while cold temperatures can make the wadding brittle and cause it to shatter on firing. If you store your shotgun shells in a place where they are subject to extreme temperature changes, it is best to keep them in a sealed container to protect them from the elements.
Another common reason for shotgun shells to go bad is simply age. Over time, the propellant in the shells will break down and become less effective. This can cause the shells to misfire or even rupture on firing. If you have old shotgun shells that you plan on using, it is best to test them first to make sure they are still safe to use.
Finally, exposure to sunlight can also cause shotgun shells to go bad. The ultraviolet light from the sun can break down the chemical compounds in the shells, making them less stable and more likely to misfire or rupture. If you are going to be storing your shotgun shells for an extended period of time, it is best to keep them in a dark, cool place to minimize their exposure to sunlight.
Humidity
One of the main causes of shotgun shells going bad is humidity. When shells are exposed to high levels of humidity, the gunpowder inside can become damp and clumpy. This can cause misfires, as well as decreased accuracy and power. It is important to store your shotgun shells in a cool, dry place, away from any potential sources of moisture.
Heat
Heat is the number one enemy of shotgun shells. Exposure to high temperatures causes the gunpowder inside shotgun shells to break down, making them less effective and potentially dangerous. If you live in a hot climate, or if you store your shotgun shells in a hot environment (like a car trunk), they will have a shorter shelf life.
Sunlight
Shotgun shells, like all ammunition, can go bad over time. The biggest enemy of shotgun shells is moisture, which can cause the gunpowder to become clumped and ineffective. Another big problem is sunlight, which can cause the plastic wadding in shotgun shells to break down and crumble.
How to Tell if Your Shotgun Shells Have Gone Bad?
If you’ve been storing shotgun shells for a while, you might be wondering if they go bad. After all, you don’t want to use them if they’re not going to work properly. Here are a few things to look for to tell if your shotgun shells have gone bad.
Deformed Shots
If you find a shotshell with a deformed or crushed primer cup, do not use the shell. Dented or damaged shotshells may not fire at all, or they may misfire. In the case of a misfire, the primer will not hit the anvil correctly, and the anvil will not strike the firing pin with enough force to set off the charge. If this happens, you could be left with a dangerous live round in your gun.
Dented Cases
If you have any doubt whatsoever about a shotgun shell, don’t use it. A small dent in the case might not seem like a big deal, but it could cause the shell to misfire. Inspect each shell carefully before loading it into your gun, and if you find any dents, set the shell aside and don’t use it.
Corroded Primers
One way to tell if your shotgun shells have gone bad is to check the primers. Primers are the small caps at the base of the shell that contain a small amount of primer compound. This compound is what is ignited by the firing pin to start the propellant burning. Over time, this compound can become corrosive and cause damage to your shotgun.
How to Prevent Your Shotgun Shells from Going Bad?
If you don’t take care of your shotgun shells, they will go bad. There are a few things you can do to prevent your shotgun shells from going bad. First, you should store them in a cool, dry place. Second, you should check the expiration date on the box and make sure you use them before that date. Third, you should keep them away from moisture and heat.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
To properly store your shotgun shells, you’ll want to keep them in a cool, dry place. High temperatures and humidity can cause the gunpowder in your shells to break down, which will affect their performance. Once you’ve open a box of shells, it’s best to transfer them to an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can find specially-designed shotgun shell containers that will protect your ammunition from the elements.
Use a Desiccant
One way to keep your shotgun shells in good condition is to use a desiccant. This will help absorb any moisture in the air and keep your shells dry. You can find desiccants at most hardware stores or online.
Keep Them in the Original Container
You should always keep your shotgun shells in the original container. This is because the container is designed to keep the shells dry and protected from damage. If you take the shells out of the container, they could become damaged or wet, which would make them less effective.