Whether you're asking how long ammo lasts , or wondering if ammunition can go bad , the answer depends on how you store it. The storage of ammunition directly impacts performance, safety, and reliability.


Proper ammo storage is an often-overlooked but critical component of firearm ownership. While a firearm without ammunition is little more than a club, poorly stored ammo can become unreliable or even dangerous over time.

Whether you're stocking up for self-defense, recreational shooting, or hunting, understanding how to store your ammunition safely and efficiently ensures it will perform when you need it most.

Ammunition doesn't have an expiration date, but improper storage can degrade its quality. Gunpowder and primers are sensitive to environmental factors like moisture, heat, and extreme temperature swings. 

These conditions can lead to misfires, reduced accuracy, or complete failure. Proper storage methods can extend the shelf life of your ammo for decades or even centuries.

Modern ammunition, when stored properly, can last decades —some even claim it remains viable for 50+ years. Military surplus often demonstrates that ammo doesn’t go bad if kept sealed, dry, and cool. 

However, heat, humidity, or corrosion can shorten its lifespan. That’s why understanding the best way to store ammo is essential, whether you're a casual shooter or building a long-term stockpile.

Before diving into storage methods, it's essential to assess your ammunition needs. Are you buying in bulk to save on costs? Do you require different calibers for training, hunting, or home defense?

Organizing your storage based on your specific needs will make accessing the right ammunition easier and more efficient. Additionally, maintaining a rotation schedule ensures that older ammo is used first, keeping your supply fresh.

• Storing Ammo in Extremes: Avoid places prone to high heat, moisture, or significant temperature fluctuations, such as car trunks or damp basements.

• Overhandling: Frequent exposure to oils and dirt from your hands can degrade ammunition over time.

• Ignoring Quality: Low-quality ammo or surplus ammunition might not store as well as higher-grade options, making it less reliable when needed.

1. Keep It Cool and Dry

Ammo should be stored in a location with stable, moderate temperatures and low humidity. A closet in your home is often ideal, as it avoids the extremes of attics, basements, or garages. Avoid storing ammo near cleaning solvents, as fumes can corrode metal casings and primers.

2. Use Quality Storage Containers

Original packaging is often the best way to store ammo, as it provides basic protection and clear labeling. For long-term storage, consider sealed ammo cans or plastic cases with desiccants to absorb moisture. Brands like Fiocchi even offer pre-sealed options like “Canned Heat,” which include desiccants for added protection.

3. Avoid Excess Handling

Frequent handling of ammunition can expose it to dirt, oils, and other contaminants that may damage primers or powder. Only open boxes when you're ready to use the ammo, and reseal any partial boxes with clear labeling.

4. Label Everything

Especially for hand-loaded ammunition, proper labeling is crucial. Note the caliber, grain weight, and any relevant details about the load. This will help you avoid confusion and ensure you’re using the correct ammunition for your firearm.

5. Organize for Accessibility

Separate ammunition by caliber, use case (e.g., training vs. self-defense), and firearm type. Stack boxes neatly on shelves or use labeled containers for easy identification. This organization will save you time and prevent mix-ups.

Best Ammo Storage Containers Spec Comparison

Whether you live in an apartment or have a dedicated gear room, there are smart ammunition storage ideas that work in any space. 

Consider stackable ammo crates for tight areas, hidden shelving units with silica packs, or repurposed tool chests for larger quantities. The goal is always the same: protect from moisture, keep organized, and avoid temperature extremes.

For long-term needs, a dedicated storage of ammo cabinet—ideally climate-controlled—is the gold standard.

1. Shelf Life (Properly Stored Ammo):

   • Commercial ammunition can last 20 to 50+ years when stored in a stable, dry environment.

2. Military Surplus Longevity:

   • Military surplus ammo has remained functional after 70+ years in sealed crates under controlled conditions.

3. Humidity Damage Threshold:

   • Relative humidity above 70% significantly increases the risk of corrosion and primer degradation.

4. Temperature Impact:

   • Ammo stored at above 150°F (65°C) for extended periods can degrade gunpowder and reduce reliability.

5. Desiccant Usage:

   • A single silica gel pack can reduce container humidity by up to 40%, extending ammo shelf life by decades.

6. Storage-Related Malfunctions:

   • According to multiple gunsmith reports, over 60% of misfires in civilian firearms are linked to poor storage conditions (e.g., moisture, corrosion, or chemical exposure).

7. Ammo Demand and Stockpiling:

   • In 2020–2021, U.S. consumers purchased over 21 billion rounds of ammo, leading to increased interest in long-term storage strategies.