Is 25 year old ammunition still good?

Generally, yes. If factory centerfire cartridges are stored in a dry, cool place with low humidity, preferably in an airtight container, they can have an amazingly long shelf life. Many ballistics experts who have shot tens of thousands of rounds over the years report shooting 20- to 50-year-old ammo with no problems.

How long does small arms ammo last?

Under good storage conditions however (stable temperate temperatures and low humidity combined with properly sealed packaging), small arms ammunition can last 50 years or more without significant deterioration.

Why can’t I find ammo anywhere?

There is no shortage of guns and ammo — we are manufacturing more than ever. [The problem] is actually a massive increase in demand, on an unprecedented scale. Supply can simply not keep up with demand.” Large manufacturers such as Vista Outdoor are experiencing the same challenges related to supply and demand.

What is considered stockpiling ammunition?

In summary, ammo is divided into two categories which are the hunting and defense ammo. Both types of ammo are highly essential for SHTF. For defense, you should stock up a minimum of 500 rounds of defensive ammo for your shotgun, approximately 2000 rounds for your rifle and finally 1000 rounds for your handgun.

Does ammo go bad?

Ammunition isn’t a perishable good – if stored correctly, it can last almost indefinitely. Whether it was stored correctly or not is another matter. Before you fire your weapon, you must determine that you’re not using bad ammo. Firing ammunition that has gone bad can be harmful to your gun and dangerous to yourself.

What is the best way to dispose of old ammo?

Contact Local Law Enforcement. The most feasible ways to disposing of unwanted ammunition is to contact the police or your local sheriff’s office.

Take your old ammo to the Local Gun Range. You might have an old cartridge and now you want to know how to dispose of live ammo.

Recycling Old Ammunition.

Hazardous Waste Drop-Off.

Things to avoid.

Does handgun ammo have a “shelf life”?

Again, the shelf-life of ammunition is theoretical. So long as your ammo is stored safely and is protected against moisture or wild swings in temperature, you should be able to keep it for decades.

Yes, it can, but this generally depends on storage conditions; anytime the temperature or humidity goes outside of certain ranges, the chances of misfires, hangfires and duds starts to climb, and this is part of the reason why the military keeps close track of such things.

What is the shelf life of re-loaded ammo?

Store reloading components and ammunition in a cool, dry place, protected from direct exposure to sunlight. If stored properly there is a 10-year shelf life on loaded ammunition.