Keeping your guns safe is important, and so is ammunition storage. Fortunately, your stock of guns might become more expensive due to increased demand. This will automatically lead to the stockpiling of the ammunition, leaving you with the question of how best to store your ammo. Remember how you store your guns? Ammo needs as much storage as your guns do.
Like proper gasoline storage, humidity and extreme temperatures are risky when storing ammo. But not to worry, storage containers are designed to keep your ammo safe. An ammo storage container will help you protect your investment efficiently and safely to ensure your ammo works as intended and have a long shelf life.
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Nevertheless, several ammo storage containers in the market range in prices, sizes, shapes, and materials, making choosing the right one difficult. Below I have rounded up some of the best ammo storage containers to ease your search
What Is an Ammo Container?
An ammunition container is a box designed to transport and store ammunition safely. Top ammo containers are made of high-quality wood, metals, and plastics. Most ammo boxes have rubber gaskets around the lid to protect the contents from moisture.
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Even though they are designed with ammunition in mind, they can come in handy for any service you may think of, such as storing flammables. Let’s have a look at the reviews of my favorite ammo containers.
| Rank | Product Image | Brand Name | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | MTM AC4C Ammo Crate | ||
| 2. | MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can | ||
| 3. | Solid Tactical 50 Cal Ammo Can | ||
| 4. | MTM 100 Round Flip-Top Ammo Box | ||
| 5. | Plano Tactical Ammo Box |
1. MTM AC4C Ammo Crate
Sale MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can) Brown, 30 caliber
- Use this crate for easier carry and transport of multi-caliber ammo storage
- Includes Four, O-ring sealed 30 Caliber ammo cans (AC30T) for multi-caliber ammo storage
- 30 Caliber ammo cans are a convenient size to store all types of bulk ammo and will be impossible to tip over in the AC4C
- Stackable and easy to secure with Four tie down spots for ATV attachment
- Outside Dimensions: 23.5” x 11.3” x 7.5”(H); Made in the USA
This storage container provides more space to fill up if you have a big ammo reserve or are planning to have one. Its 30-caliber storage volume was enough to store all sorts of my ammo. It is a five-piece set comprising four cans and one ammo crate. The crate fits every can, and I could easily remove them whenever I needed access. The separate cans also made it easier to open the right can since I put different labels for every can.
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Safety was my priority and this container’s lid fitted with a rubber gasket has kept my ammunition away from humidity and unregulated temperatures. In addition, the ability to stack the crates on each other made it easier to manage and maximize my vertical storage space.
Both cans and crates are rugged polypropylene, making the container more durable and rust-free. This container came in handy for my practice range first because of its handles on both sides that made it easy to carry around. Secondly, the 4 cans that were reliable in carrying four different cases separately.
- PROS
- Water-resistant
- Maximizes home storage space
- Easier transport and mobility
- Provides more storage space of up to 30 caliber
- CONS
- Can break overtime
- They are small hence can be easily knocked over when stacked up
2. MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can
MTM Forest Green 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can
- Military-style 50 caliber size ammo can offers dry storage for ammunition, emergency gear, medical supplies, batteries, food, tools, boating…
- Utilizing MTM’s tongue and groove O-Ring seal system for a superior water-resistant seal
- Heavy-duty dual latching system makes for a better seal and less likely to open accidentally
- Strong comfortable handle and double padlock tabbed for security; Designed for stacking and made of rugged polypropylene plastic
- Outside Dimensions: 13.5″ x 7.4″ x 8.5″ High – Inside Dimensions: 11” x 5.8″ x 7.2″ High Made in USA
MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can is similar to the MTM AC4C ammo cans, except that it doesn’t have a crate. The handles for easy and comfortable transport, double padlock tabs for security, O-ring water-resistant seal, and the stacking ridges for storage management are some of the qualities of this bespoke container.
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These storage cans are sold individually, and at the beginning of my ammo acquisition, they were resourceful since I didn’t have much to store. They are lightweight and hence portable. On the downside, these ammunition boxes are not ideal for outdoor use due to their plastic nature. They are vulnerable to extreme temperatures, and great pressure exerted for a long time can break them.
They are designed from the military surplus ammo cans, and even though not made of steel, they can still carry as bulk ammo as the military cans. It is one of the best ammo box choices for medium to large storage. This feature was advantageous when my ammo stock grew.
- PROS
- Stackable
- Lightweight
- Airtight rubber seals
- Secure
- CONS
- Not ideal for outdoor
- Not very durable
3. Solid Tactical 50 Cal Ammo Can
Solid Tactical 50 Cal Metal Ammo Can with Welded Locking kit -…
- Build to last – Steel Ammo Box with Premium Quality paint plus a powder-coated interior and exterior
- Submersible and water proof ammo box – Rubber sealed to protect your goods from water and dust
- Includes dessicant pack and a welded lock kit! – keep your ammo safe
- Reusable & Stackable Ammo Cans – Securely stack to save storage space and reuse for years to come
- 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed – Our money-back promise means you can try our 50 Cal Ammo box risk-free
When I heard the term military grade used to define this storage container, I became interested because may be hazardous to keep ammunitions and guns at home. In addition, its high-quality material made its construction closer to the military-grade containers I so much wanted, and I gave it a try.
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Its solid steel construction makes it more durable than other storage containers. This durability extended my ammo’s shelf life, making me recommend it. Moreover, the solid tactical can is airtight and waterproof, protecting the ammo from elements that can interfere with its effectiveness, especially moisture.
This container did protect my ammo from water and dirt, dust, and debris because of the rubber gasket seal running along the entire removable lid. The lid is also secured with a sturdy latch. On matters of space, this container wasn’t a bother because their heavyweight makes them stackable even without the stacking ridges, and there is no fear of collapsing.
The desiccant pack is an added feature that I found interesting with this box. Even if it is airtight and waterproof when you open it, water is still an issue, and this desiccant absorbs any moisture to ensure your container remains dry. If you happen to live in humid climates like me, this feature will ensure that your ammo has a long shelf life.
But one thing I found not so pleasing with this container is the weight. It is heavy; hence I could not carry it around with so much ease.
- PROS
- Heavy duty steel
- Removable lid
- Airtight and waterproof
- Included desiccant packs
- CONS
- Heavy
4. MTM 100 Round Flip-Top Ammo Box
MTM 100 Round Flip-Top Rifle Ammo Box 22-25, 308 W, Blue,3.05-Inch
- 100 Round Rifle Ammo Boxes
- Scuff-resistant textured surface
- Snap-lock latch; Stacking feet
- Mechanical hinge and load labels; 25 year guarantee
- Maximum overall length: 3.05″; Made in USA
For so long, I focused on storing my guns in big high-quality boxes until I had to dispose of a good number of my ammunition because they were spoilt. And being obsessed with big sizes and high-quality containers, I also found one for my ammunition storage.
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This MTM 100 Round Flip-Top Ammo box stores up to 100 9mm or 380 caliber ammunition. This container is an organizer if you have 9mm Luger, 380 ACP, 30 Luger, 32 Smith & Wesson, and 9mm Makarov handguns. It is 5 inches on all sides with a depth of 1.22 inches which makes it difficult to access when you’re storing the 380 calibers, but this helped store the ammunition shells whenever I stayed out to practice shots.
Unlike other containers, these types of plastic ammo cans do not have a rubber gasket along the lid and can only be locked using a snap lock latch. They are also not fully water resistant; therefore, they couldn’t come in handy when I moved near water bodies. Despite all these, I still recommend them because I use my guns frequently in hunting and practicing, so I wouldn’t mind these features. After all, they are best for short-term storage.
MTM 100 Round Flip-Top ammo containers are stackable and already labeled for easy access, so I could carry a good number to my range without worry. Plus, its textured exterior resists scuffs and prevents scratches from penetrating the plastic surface. It is also strong enough to handle unintentional falls while staying shut.
- PROS
- Scuff and scratch resistant
- Snap lock latch
- 100 9mm storage capacity
- Easy transportation and mobility
- CONS
- Not airtight
- Not fully water resistant
5. Plano Tactical Ammo Box
Plano Tactical Series Ammo Crate, Multi, One Size
- Plano Gun Cases and Ammo Storage | Protecting your passion since 1952
- Durable construction with water-resistant O-ring seal protects up to 85 pounds of ammunition
- Two internal removable dividers customize the interior to suit your needs and your gear
- Stackable design provides stable organization | Two side carry handles for comfortable carry
- Specs: 16.5″ L x 18.75″ H | Weight: 4.4 lbs | Color: Black | Foam Type: Interlocking | Exterior Seal: Water-resistant
I call this storage box a practical and economical container. It is small in size; hence I could easily keep it in my gun safe, and whenever I wanted to step out, I could carry it without plenty of concerns. This container can fit up to 7 boxes of ammo and is ideal for 30-caliber rifles.
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Plano tactical ammunition box is made of durable plastic material. It has a lid fitted with a brass bail latch, one padlock tab, and a water-resistant O-ring seal, giving me quality services without worrying about corrosion.
With the increasing amount of ammo at my place, managing the storage space became challenging until I got this storage container. It is designed with stacking ridges on the lids and the bottom, making it possible to stack several boxes on top of each other, so buying a few of these containers maximized my storage space.
- PROS
- Durable, heavy-duty plastic
- Stackable
- Water-resistant
- Compact
- CONS
- Not as secure
Home Ammo Storage Guidelines
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Proper ammo storage is the secret to its long shelf life. Even though they are built to resist certain environments, doing your part in proper storage would ensure the durability, efficiency, and safety of the people around you. Below are ammo storage ideas that you should follow to keep you and your ammo safe.
a) Keep Your Ammo Dry
Moisture is the number one enemy of metals, and ammunition, composed mostly of metal, becomes dysfunctional when it corrodes. Therefore it is important to store your ammo away from water sources.
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In cases of humid climate, wet air is unavoidable, and you need to take serious precautions for proper ammo storage. So you should invest in some storage containers with airtight or waterproof seals; better still, a water-resistant container will be my preferred choice. You can also buy desiccant packs to put in your storage containers to absorb any excess moisture.
b) Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Yes, ammunition is resistant to extreme temperatures. It can withstand the worst environments, but you should not leave it to chance because too much swinging between one extreme to another will wear on the casings and ruin its quality.
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Storing ammo in your car’s trunk makes it easy to access but also vulnerable to rapid temperature changes. Avoiding direct sunlight is ideal because just as the UV rays can damage your skin, they can also damage your ammo. Store your ammo in boxes that do not allow light in, and ensure the storage environment is always cool and dry.
c) Label and Rotate
Being passionate about guns, my collection is growing, and over time I could lose track of my ammo. So I decided to label and store them in multiple containers, which has helped me keep track.
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Another trick for maintaining the quality of my ammo is rotating them. I put the new one at the back and the old one at the front. This is a rule of thumb, and it has aided in identifying suitable storage containers.
d) Safety
Your ammo is your valuable but dangerous investment. Storing it in a safe place keeps you safe as well. Sturdy, durable containers with locks is a great idea because putting them in a good hiding spot is not enough. Also, storing ammo in your garage is a great idea but not as open as you would store your bikes in there. Keep the containers locked and hidden in your garage’s cool and dry corner.
Never store your ammo in the same place as your firearms, especially if you have kids at home. The sight of your kids with your gun accessories is the last thing you want to encounter. Therefore, store the two in separate secure locations.
Final Thoughts
Ammunition, if properly stored, has a shelf life of up to 3 generations, but its quality can be easily compromised even after you’ve taken much-needed care. So even if your ammo stock may increase, you should have a storage container that will serve you for a very long time. Note that a desiccant will reduce moisture content, but your ammunition is still at risk without the right container.
When making this lifelong investment, ensure it matches your defense cost and always protect yourself as you protect your investment. Invest in storage containers with essential accessories such as stickers for labeling and locking hardware for safety.
