Can Ammo Be Stored in a Hot Garage? The Risks of Extreme Temperatures on Your Ammunition
Storing ammunition improperly can lead to serious consequences, from reduced effectiveness to dangerous malfunctions. One common concern revolves around storing ammo in a hot garage. The short answer is: no, storing ammo in a hot garage is generally a bad idea. Let's delve into the specifics of why extreme heat is detrimental to ammunition and what you should do instead.
The Dangers of Heat on Ammunition
High temperatures can significantly degrade the chemical components of ammunition, leading to a number of problems:
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Deterioration of Gunpowder: Heat accelerates the chemical breakdown of gunpowder. This can result in reduced propellant power, potentially causing misfires or underpowered rounds. In severe cases, the gunpowder can become unstable, increasing the risk of accidental detonation.
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Case Corrosion: High heat can also accelerate corrosion of the ammunition casing, especially in brass or steel cartridges. This can lead to case swelling, which makes chambering difficult and can cause dangerous pressure buildup within the firearm.
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Primer Degradation: The primers, responsible for igniting the gunpowder, are highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Excessive heat can degrade the primer's sensitivity, resulting in misfires or unreliable ignition. This poses a significant safety risk.
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Lubricant Breakdown: Many types of ammunition use lubricants to ensure smooth feeding and cycling within the firearm. Heat can cause these lubricants to break down and become gummy or sticky, hindering proper operation.
What Temperature is Too Hot for Ammo Storage?
While there's no single magic number, it's generally recommended to keep ammunition below 70°F (21°C). Temperatures exceeding 90°F (32°C) consistently are considered risky and should be avoided. The hotter and more prolonged the exposure, the greater the risk of ammunition degradation. Remember that a closed vehicle in direct sunlight can reach significantly higher temperatures than the ambient air temperature.
Safer Ammunition Storage Practices
To ensure the safety and reliability of your ammunition, follow these best practices:
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Cool, Dry Location: Store your ammo in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. A climate-controlled space is ideal.
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Original Packaging: Keep ammunition in its original packaging whenever possible, as this provides some level of protection against moisture and temperature fluctuations.
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Away from Direct Sunlight: Avoid storing ammunition where it will be exposed to direct sunlight.
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Proper Containers: If you need additional storage containers, choose those made of high-quality, moisture-resistant materials. Avoid using plastic containers that might warp or melt under extreme heat.
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Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your ammunition for signs of deterioration, such as rust, swelling, or damage to the casing or primer.
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Separate Storage from Firearms: Always store ammunition separately from firearms, preferably in a locked container.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety
Storing ammunition properly is crucial for safety and to maintain the integrity of your rounds. The risks associated with storing ammo in a hot garage outweigh any convenience. Prioritize a cool, dry storage location to protect yourself and ensure your ammunition remains reliable when you need it.
