How to Store Ammunition Properly: Safety, Longevity, and Readiness

How to Store Ammunition Properly: Safety, Longevity, and Readiness

Posted by Ammojo on Apr 13th 2025

Storing ammunition properly isn’t just about keeping it organized—it’s about preserving performance, protecting your investment, and ensuring safety. Whether you’re stockpiling for emergencies, target shooting, or hunting, how and where you store your ammo directly affects its reliability and shelf life.

Here’s a breakdown of the best practices for ammunition storage, from environmental control to container selection.


Key Ammo Storage Tips

Keep It Cool and Consistent

  • Ideal Temperature Range: 55°F to 75°F

  • Avoid excessive heat, which can degrade powder and primers

  • Never store ammo near heaters, furnaces, or attics with extreme temps

Control Humidity

  • Humidity is the enemy—moisture leads to corrosion of brass and primers

  • Target Humidity: Below 50% RH

  • Use desiccant packs or silica gel inside containers to absorb moisture

Use Proper Storage Containers

  • Military-Grade Ammo Cans: Steel or polymer with gasket-sealed lids

  • Sealed Plastic Containers: Lightweight, rust-resistant, airtight

  • Label cans by caliber and date for easy inventory tracking

Store in a Secure Location

  • Ammo should be kept out of reach of children and unauthorized users

  • Use a locked cabinet, ammo safe, or secure closet

  • Avoid storing ammo in the same container as firearms (separate is safer)

Choose a Stable Environment

  • Keep ammo off concrete floors (moisture wicks up)

  • Avoid basements or sheds unless properly climate-controlled

  • Interior closets or safes in dry rooms are ideal


Recommended Ammo Storage Setup

Item Best Practice
Temperature Control 55°F–75°F with no extreme fluctuations
Humidity Control <50% RH using silica gel/desiccants
Storage Container Steel ammo can or gasketed plastic box
Location Dry, dark, secure indoor area
Security Locked cabinet or dedicated ammo safe
Labeling Caliber, date, and quantity on each can

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Leaving ammo in glove compartments or hot vehicles

  • ❌ Storing loose rounds in open boxes or bags

  • ❌ Using non-sealed containers in humid environments

  • ❌ Forgetting to rotate older ammo in long-term storage


Final Thoughts

Proper ammo storage is about preserving function, ensuring safety, and staying ready. Whether you're storing a few boxes or building an ammo stockpile, following these simple rules helps you keep your investment secure and your gear range-ready.


Looking for reliable ammo storage solutions?
Shop top-quality ammo cans, safes, and humidity control accessories now at AmmoJo.com—where your gear and your safety come first.