How can I safely dispose of old or unused ammunition?

Safely Disposing of Old or Unused Ammunition

Old, damaged, or unused ammunition should be disposed of safely and responsibly. Due to the inherent dangers of ammunition, it is essential to follow specific guidelines and precautions to avoid accidents. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly dispose of old or unused ammunition:

1. Do Not Throw Ammunition in the Trash

• Danger: Ammunition contains propellants that can ignite, and cartridges can explode under the right conditions. Tossing ammunition in the trash poses a risk to sanitation workers and can result in fires.
• Environmental Impact: The heavy metals and other chemicals in ammunition can contaminate the environment.

2. Contact Local Law Enforcement

• Many police or sheriff’s departments will accept old or unused ammunition for disposal. Call your local department’s non-emergency number for guidance. They might ask you to bring the ammunition to the station or send an officer to collect it.

3. Attend a Local Hazardous Waste Collection Event

• Some municipalities hold periodic hazardous waste collection events where they accept items like old paint, chemicals, and sometimes ammunition.
• Before attending, call ahead or check their website to confirm they accept ammunition and understand any requirements or restrictions they might have.

4. Consult with Local Shooting Ranges or Gun Stores

• Some shooting ranges or gun stores may accept old or unused ammunition, either for disposal or potential resale.
• They often have connections with professional services that handle ammunition disposal or might use certain types of ammo for range purposes.

5. Consider an Ammunition Disposal Service

• There are professional services specializing in the disposal of ammunition, primers, powder, and other related items.
• Though they might charge a fee, using a professional service ensures the ammunition is disposed of safely and in compliance with laws and regulations.

6. Deactivate the Ammunition (Only as a Last Resort)

• If you’re knowledgeable about ammunition and its components, you can consider deactivating the ammunition yourself. However, this should only be done if you’re experienced and comfortable with the process.
• Process:

1. Wear Safety Gear: Use safety goggles and gloves.
2. Disassemble the Cartridge: Using a kinetic bullet puller or a reloading press, disassemble the cartridge by separating the bullet from the casing.
3. Dispose of the Powder: Empty the powder into a container filled with water, let it soak to deactivate the propellant, then spread it out to dry in a safe place outdoors. Once completely dried out and inert, it can be thrown away.
4. Recycle the Casings: Brass, steel, and aluminum casings can often be recycled.
5. Primers: Primers remain dangerous and should be soaked in oil for several days to deactivate them.

7. Safety Precautions

• Transporting: When transporting old or unused ammunition, place it in a sturdy container to prevent accidental ignition or discharge. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
• Handling: Always handle ammunition with care, even if it’s old or damaged.

8. Stay Informed

• Regulations and best practices for disposing of ammunition can change over time. Stay updated on local regulations and industry recommendations.

Conclusion

Ammunition, whether old, damaged, or unused, requires proper disposal to ensure safety and environmental responsibility. Always approach the process with caution and consider utilizing local resources, including law enforcement and shooting ranges, to assist in safe disposal. If in doubt, it’s always best to consult with professionals or those experienced in firearms and ammunition.