As ammunition can often be subject to extreme temperature swings, storing ammo in the cold is not recommended. While some ammo can withstand colder temperatures, this is typically only when the ammo is stored in sealed containers, like a watertight ammo box.
Cold temperatures can cause the coating of the bullets to deteriorate, and moisture buildup can lead to rusting and corrosion. Additionally, the change in temperature can cause expansion and contraction of the ammo, leading to variance in the size of the rounds.
For this reason, it is generally better to store ammo in a climate-controlled space like a closet or a gun safe, as this will ensure the temperature remains more consistent and prevent any potential damage from occurring.
Can you store ammo in cold garage?
Yes, as long as it is kept away from heat sources like radiators and direct sunlight, it is acceptable to store ammo in a cold garage. Ammunition is sensitive to temperature and moisture, so fluctuating temperatures in a cold garage can be a problem.
The ideal environment for ammunition is between 55- and 85-degrees Fahrenheit with low-to-moderate humidity. Ammunition should never be stored in extreme temperatures like attics, garages, or basements that are not climate-controlled.
Having a dehumidifier in the garage can help with this. It is also important that ammo is stored away from any petroleum-based product like motor oil, paints, thinner, etc. If possible, the ammo should be kept in an airtight container with a desiccant to absorb moisture.
If there are any signs that the ammunition has degraded in any way due to extreme temperatures or moisture, it should be discarded immediately.
What temperature is unsafe for bullets?
Unsafe temperatures for bullets depend on the type of material used to construct the bullet. Generally speaking, any temperature above 500°F can cause a risk of bullet malfunction due to the material warping and losing its shape.
This type of warping can cause the bullet to have an erratic trajectory and can be potentially dangerous. Rubber-coated bullets have a slightly lower upper safe temperature limit, usually around 350°F, and should be used with extra caution in hot climates.
Additionally, long-term storage of bullets in extreme temperatures, such as in a vehicle during hot summer days, can cause damage to the material and will ultimately reduce the accuracy and performance of the bullet.
Extreme cold temperatures can also be detrimental to bullets, potentially causing the material to crack and become brittle. To ensure that your bullets perform as expected, store you ammunition in a consistent and moderate temperature (room temperature is ideal) and employ proper safety protocols when using them.
How long does it take for ammo to go bad?
It depends on the type of ammo and environmental conditions, but in general, ammo can last anywhere from a few decades to a hundred years. Most ammo manufacturers indicate on their packaging the shelf life of their products.
Handgun ammunition is typically the most sensitive to environmental conditions, and often needs to be replaced after a period of five to seven years. Rifle ammunition, such as. 223/5. 56 Nato and. 308/7.
62 Nato, can also suffer from environmental effects, but usually have a much longer shelf life, on the order of up to 20 years. On the other hand, shotgun ammunition often has an even longer shelf life of up to a hundred years.
However, it should be noted that any ammo that has been exposed to extreme temperatures, humid conditions, excess moisture, or other forms of abuse should not be trusted and should be replaced immediately.
What temperature is too cold for ammo?
It is generally accepted that ammo should be stored in temperatures between 55°F to 85°F (13°C to 29°C). Anything below freezing, or 32°F (0°C), is considered too cold for ammo storage. The freezing temperatures can cause slight condensation, which can cause components in the cartridges to corrode.
This can cause corrosion in the primer, propellant, and bullet, resulting in reduced reliability or even an unsafe round. Beyond cold temperatures, long-term exposure to excessive heat can also cause degradation of the rounds.
As a result, ammo should not be stored in temperatures higher than 85°F (29°C).
How cold is too cold for ammo?
When it comes to ammo and the effects of cold temperatures, the specific temperature at which you should avoid using a particular type of ammunition is dependent on the type being used. Generally, common handgun ammunition begins to experience issues at temperatures that are below 40° F.
If temperatures are lower than this, your pistol ammunition can become unreliable and can even cause a malfunction. Between 40° F and -20° F, many types of ammunition experience a decrease in muzzle velocity and accuracy.
Generally, temperatures below -20° F can be too cold for many types of centerfire ammunition, and the useful temperature range of rifle ammunition usually lies between 40° F and -40° F.
When handling ammunition in cold temperatures, it is important to bring your ammo to room temperature before use. Leaving it out in the open for an extended period of time can help the ammunition reach its necessary temperature and make shooting more reliable.
It is also important to note that storing your ammunition in areas that are too cold, such as inside a freezer or car trunk, can permanently damage the ammunition and cause it to become less reliable.
As such, it is always important to assess the temperature of the environment you will be shooting in prior to bringing your ammunition.
Is cold weather bad for guns?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. Generally speaking, cold weather can be hard on firearms, because the metal contracts and expands with temperature changes, which can cause parts to bind and affect the tightness of the firearm.
Extreme cold can also cause lubricants to thicken, making them less effective.
Overall, the best advice is to keep your firearm in a dry place and keep a thin layer of lubricant on it to slow the effects of changes in temperature. When shooting in cold weather, make sure to inspect your firearm and remove any accumulated moisture before and after shooting.
It’s also a good idea to keep extra lubricant on hand so you can give it a quick touchup if needed. Be aware of your firearm and its surroundings and keep it stored at a reasonable temperature when not in use for extended periods.
What happens if ammo freezes?
If ammo freezes it can cause a myriad of safety issues should it be used. The powder contained in the bullet can become less effective, but the major concern would be the pressure the wall of the cartridge can reach when exposed to a sudden increase in temperature.
Normally, cartridges are designed to handle the pressures caused by firing, but when exposed to extreme cold and then suddenly heated, the pressure can exceed the projectile’s original design limitations and cause it to fail.
The projectile could fail to launch, or worse yet, the cartridge could burst and injure the shooter or anyone in the vicinity. It is important to always store all ammo in an environment that is temperature and humidity controlled.
Whereas some cartridges are designed to sustain a certain amount of exposure, it is never recommended.
Will a gun work if frozen?
It is generally not recommended to use a gun if it has been frozen, as this might cause damage to the gun and make it unsafe for use. Exposure to extreme temperatures can cause damage to the gun’s internal parts, such as the lubricants, springs, and screws.
The increased mechanical stress can even cause the gun to malfunction or yield unpredictable results, leading to potential safety and performance issues. It is important to store a gun within safe temperature range to ensure its safety and reliability.
Depending on the materials used for the gun and its components, it is possible for a gun to become damaged with extreme and sudden temperature changes. Thus, it is wise to avoid using a gun if it has become frozen.
Can bullets be left in the cold?
Yes, bullets can be left in the cold, but temperature extremes should generally be avoided if possible. Low temperatures can have a negative effect on the chemical makeup of the bullet, which can lead to misfires.
In addition, bullets in the cold can become brittle, resulting in cracks or shattered cases. Very cold temperatures also make it more difficult for the propellant to ignite. For these reasons, it’s best to store bullets at optimal temperatures, normally around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and away from direct sunlight or other sources of heat.
Do guns need to be stored in climate control?
It is generally recommended that guns should be stored in a climate-controlled environment to prevent corrosion or degradation of the gun’s materials. Temperature and humidity can cause metals to rust or degrade, and even plastics like polymers can become brittle and crack when exposed to extreme temperatures.
Storing a gun in a room that is too hot orhumidity can cause it to rust and corrode. Additionally, extreme temperatures can cause the firearm’s internal components, such as springs and pins, to degrade and fail.
Adequate climate control prevents any potential damage and helps sustain the gun’s quality and performance over time.