Can You Store Ammo in a Hot Garage? The Risks and Rewards of Risky Storage
Storing ammunition improperly can lead to significant safety hazards, and high temperatures are a major concern. So, can you store ammo in a hot garage? The short answer is: it's strongly discouraged and potentially dangerous. While some might argue that a little heat won't hurt, the risks far outweigh any perceived convenience. Let's delve into the specifics.
The Dangers of Heat on Ammunition
Extreme temperatures, especially heat, can significantly degrade ammunition, impacting its performance and safety. Here's what can happen:
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Deterioration of Gunpowder: High temperatures can cause the gunpowder within cartridges to decompose. This decomposition can lead to increased pressure within the casing, potentially causing the cartridge to rupture or malfunction when fired. This can result in dangerous malfunctions, causing injury or even death to the shooter.
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Corrosion of Components: Heat and humidity, often prevalent in hot garages, can accelerate the corrosion of metallic components within cartridges, such as the primer, casing, and bullet. This corrosion compromises the integrity of the round, rendering it unsafe or unreliable.
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Degradation of Propellant: The propellant in cartridges can become less stable and more prone to spontaneous combustion or detonation in extreme heat. This represents a significant fire hazard, especially in a confined space like a garage containing potentially flammable materials.
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Case Swelling: Extreme heat can cause the cartridge cases to swell, making them difficult or impossible to chamber in a firearm. This can also lead to increased pressure during firing, again creating a serious safety risk.
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Bullet Deformation: While less common, extreme heat can, in some cases, cause the bullets themselves to deform, potentially affecting accuracy and function.
Safe Ammunition Storage Practices
Proper ammunition storage is crucial for safety and maintaining the integrity of your rounds. Here are some best practices:
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Cool, Dry Environment: Store ammunition in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. A climate-controlled environment is ideal.
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Ammunition Storage Containers: Use appropriate ammunition storage containers, such as sealed metal or plastic containers specifically designed for this purpose. These containers help protect ammunition from moisture and temperature fluctuations.
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Away from Flammables: Never store ammunition near flammable materials, such as gasoline, solvents, or other chemicals.
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Separate from Firearms: Ideally, store ammunition separately from firearms. This minimizes the risk of accidental discharge or theft.
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Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your ammunition for any signs of damage, corrosion, or degradation. Dispose of any rounds showing signs of deterioration.
Alternatives to a Hot Garage
If your garage consistently experiences high temperatures, consider these alternatives for storing your ammunition:
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Climate-Controlled Storage: Rent a climate-controlled storage unit if necessary.
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Interior Storage: Store ammunition inside your home in a cool, dry, and secure location.
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Gun Safe with Dehumidifier: Invest in a high-quality gun safe equipped with a dehumidifier to maintain optimal storage conditions.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety
Storing ammunition in a hot garage is a gamble with potentially fatal consequences. The risks associated with heat-induced degradation far outweigh any convenience. Prioritizing safe storage practices is paramount, ensuring the safety of yourself, your family, and anyone else who might come into contact with your ammunition. Always choose a cool, dry, and secure location for storing ammunition, and don't hesitate to seek professional advice if unsure about proper storage techniques.
