4 Dos And Don’ts Of Firearm And Ammunition Storage

Owning a gun is a massive responsibility. Because despite how well firearms protect their owners, that much power could easily turn on you when handled poorly. As a gun owner, you must realize that every firearm component is crucial. Neglecting even one of them could impact its performance and integrity. Learning about every firearm component comes easier when you build your own gun using a lower from 80 Percent Arms. Click here to browse their selection of 80 lowers.

Considering how many safety plans for gun ownership are already in place, it’s safe to say that society is aware of just how dangerous these weapons are. Gun owners must practice various techniques to ensure their firearms are safe. One way to accomplish that is through proper storage. After all, learning how to store guns and their ammunition is the first step in maintaining them.

Here are some tips that shed light on proper firearm and ammo storage:  

How To Store Firearm And Ammunition

Storing your firearms equipment is a delicate task, which is appropriate. After all, firearms are extremely sensitive to their conditions. Thus, here are some things you must remember when planning storage:

1. Organize Ammo By Group

Those unfamiliar with firearms might think bullets can be used on any gun. However, they don’t know how dangerous that line of thinking is. Because as soon as they pull the trigger, they’re exposing themselves to all kinds of risks, from damaging the gun to inflicting serious injuries on the user because of debris.

Be thorough when organizing ammunition. Pay attention to every piece of information describing each box of ammo. Understanding the differences between ammunition types is crucial for proper storage. Consider educating yourself on topics like Hollow Point vs. Full Metal Jacket ammunition to make informed decisions on how to store and handle each type safely. It is especially important to separate ammunition according to caliber, bullet type, weight, pressure, and manufacturer, especially when dealing with bulk ammunition. However, seasoned gun owners consider it necessary in case of malfunctions. For example, if you’re storing 7.63 Mauser ammo, ensure it is properly labeled and stored according to its specific requirements.

2. Consider Environment  

Guns and ammunition alike are extremely sensitive to their environments. After all, rust and corrosion are firearms’ biggest enemies, while ammo is susceptible to deterioration. But just because they share similar conditions doesn’t mean they must be stored the same way. A more detailed discussion on this matter awaits in the succeeding sections. 

Avoid reaching over 125 degrees Fahrenheit (51.67 degrees Celsius) when picking appropriate storage. For those choosing a wall mounted gun to store their firearm, be mindful that it stays out of direct sunlight to avoid oxidization or rust. If anything, it’s better to go low regarding temperature.  

However, it’s where the contrast starts coming in. Some ammunition contains primer and powder that deteriorate faster in high temperatures. However, too low a temperature might affect gunpowder’s ballistic performance. To play it safe, ensure your storage stays at 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius).   

3. Control Moisture

Aside from temperature, another factor that influences guns and ammunition is moisture content. Ensure that their storage is as dry as possible to avoid further deterioration. Because with high humidity and moisture combined, there’s an equally high chance they’ll quickly corrode. When that happens, the cartridges on corroded ammo will deform and fail to fit the gun’s chamber, while the gun itself is at risk of falling apart as soon as it’s used.   

4. Clean Regularly

Although moisture is kept in check, dirt can still ruin firearms and bullets, especially guns. After all, not everyone uses gloves to keep sweat and fingerprints from the gun. Considering they contain salt and dirt, they’ll likely cause it to rust over time. Thus, before stashing them away, be faithful to your cleaning schedule.  

What To Avoid When Storing Firearm And Ammunition

Given how sensitive firearms and ammunition are, gun owners must remain vigilant when finding the proper storage. Here are some practices you must avoid, especially for new gun owners: 

1. Do Not Use A Storage Unit

While renting an entire storage unit for your firearms and ammunition may seem wise, it exposes many risks that could compromise your status as a gun owner, especially security-wise. After all, storage facilities aren’t private properties. Because of this, there’s a high possibility for break-ins to occur. Moreover, they don’t feature specific amenities for suitable gun storage conditions.   

2. Do Not Come In Contact With Chemicals  

Considering how moisture and temperature can easily compromise firearms and bullets, it only makes sense for chemicals to be the same, especially on ammunition. After all, even guns are exposed to cleaning agents. When bullets come in contact with chemicals, their surface will likely discolor before corrosion occurs. Hence, there’s no need for a thorough clean-up before storing them away.  

3. Do Not Use Boxes  

Cardboard boxes are highly susceptible to moisture, unlike metal containers and safes since they quickly absorb fluids. Enclosing guns and ammunition while the boxes are wet will only surround them in moisture. When that happens, it’s only a matter of time before they succumb to rust and corrosion the longer they’re stored inside.  

4. Do Not Neglect the Inspection  

Even if you’re keeping them inside the perfect storage, it doesn’t mean your guns and ammunition are scot-free. Check them regularly to see if dirt or rust is building up anywhere. Inspect if your firearms need any replacements to stay in top shape.   

Takeaway  

Storing firearms and ammunition is one of the first lessons all gun owners must learn. Because despite the simple task, the storage conditions you’ve subjected them to could significantly compromise their performance and quality. Thus, you’re putting yourself at risk once you use them. However, with the right temperature and other factors considered, your firearm equipment will stay in excellent condition for a long time.

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