Can ammunition expire or go bad?

Can Ammunition Expire or Go Bad?

The world of firearms and ammunition is filled with myths, tales, and half-truths, and one question that often emerges is about the shelf life of ammunition. Can bullets and cartridges actually expire? In this guide, we’ll explore this question in depth and shed light on how and why ammunition might degrade over time.

Ammunition Basics

Before delving into the specifics of ammunition aging, it’s important to grasp what a cartridge consists of:

1. Bullet: This is the projectile that’s fired from the gun.
2. Case: Usually made of brass or steel, this holds all the components together.
3. Primer: This is the sensitive compound that ignites when struck, starting the firing process.
4. Gunpowder/Propellant: Once the primer ignites, it sets the gunpowder alight, producing gas that propels the bullet.

The Concept of “Expiry”

Ammunition doesn’t “expire” in the same way perishable food does. There’s no set date after which it’s considered unsafe or ineffective. However, ammunition can degrade or become less reliable over time due to various factors.

Factors Affecting Ammunition Longevity

Several elements can impact how well ammunition ages:

1. Moisture: Perhaps the most significant enemy of ammunition longevity is moisture. Water can lead to corrosion of the case and primer, and if it permeates inside, it can also neutralize the gunpowder.
2. Temperature Fluctuations: Ammunition stored in places with wide temperature swings can degrade faster. High temperatures, in particular, can accelerate the breakdown of the propellant.
3. Air Quality: Exposure to salty air or pollutants can further corrode ammunition components.
4. Physical Damage: If the cartridges are dented or damaged, they might not fire correctly, and they can even be unsafe.

Visual Signs of Aging

Over time, you might notice several visual cues that suggest your ammunition is aging or degrading:

1. Corrosion: If you see green or white corrosion, particularly around the primer or on the case, it indicates the ammo has been exposed to moisture.
2. Discoloration: This can be a sign that the bullet or case is oxidizing.
3. Dented or Damaged Cases: Such deformities can affect the round’s performance and safety.

Performance Issues

Old or degraded ammunition can lead to several performance problems:

1. Misfires: The cartridge doesn’t fire when the trigger is pulled.
2. Hangfires: There’s a noticeable delay between pulling the trigger and the gun firing.
3. Squibs: The bullet doesn’t have enough force to exit the barrel, posing a significant risk if another round is fired behind it.

These issues primarily arise from compromised primers or degraded gunpowder.

Storing for Longevity

The key to ensuring ammunition longevity is proper storage:

1. Cool, Dry Places: Ideally, ammunition should be stored in a place with a consistent, cool temperature and low humidity.
2. Ammo Cans: These are designed to be airtight and often have rubber seals to prevent moisture intrusion.
3. Desiccants: These moisture-absorbing packets can help keep your ammunition dry, particularly if you live in a humid area.
4. Original Packaging: Keeping ammo in its original box can prevent damage and keep rounds from rubbing against each other.

Shelf Life Expectations

With optimal storage conditions:

1. Modern Ammunition: Can easily last decades. There are stories of ammunition from World War II or even earlier still firing reliably.
2. Older or Poor-Quality Ammunition: Might not have the same shelf life. If you’ve inherited or stumbled upon very old rounds, exercise caution. It might be more of a collector’s item than functional ammunition.
3. Reloaded Ammunition: This varies significantly based on the quality of the components used and the care taken in the reloading process.

Safety and Old Ammunition

If you’re ever in doubt about the integrity of a round:

1. Inspect It: Look for the visual signs of aging mentioned above.
2. When in Doubt, Don’t Shoot: If you’re unsure about the ammo’s reliability or safety, it’s better to dispose of it properly than risk an accident.
3. Professional Opinion: If you have a significant stockpile of old ammunition, consider having it inspected by a professional or expert.

Disposing of Old Ammunition

If you decide not to use old or degraded ammo:

1. Do Not Burn or Throw Out: This can be dangerous and is environmentally irresponsible.
2. Contact Local Authorities: Many police departments or local hazardous waste facilities can safely dispose of old ammunition.
3. Gun Ranges: Some ranges might accept old ammunition or guide you on safe disposal methods.

Conclusion

Ammunition, when produced to modern standards and stored correctly, has a remarkably long shelf life. However, as with anything, it doesn’t last forever. Recognizing the signs of aging and degradation, understanding the factors that impact longevity, and practicing safe storage can help ensure that your ammunition remains reliable and effective for many years. If ever in doubt about a cartridge’s integrity, prioritize safety above all else.