The length of time bullets can be stored for will vary depending on the type of ammunition and how well you store them. For example, metal cased ammunition can typically last for decades when stored properly and away from extreme temperatures.
On the other hand, nickel-plated brass ammunition is typically better suited for shorter-term storage, usually being replaced after 3-5 years.
At a minimum, you should confirm that the ammunition is properly stored in airtight containers and kept away from moisture and extreme temperatures. You should also inspect the ammunition on a regular basis for any signs of physical degradation.
If you find any dents, rust, or discoloration on the cartridges, you should discard the bullets and replace them with new ammunition.
Ultimately, the length of time you can store ammunition depends on the type of ammunition and how well you store it. If you take the proper steps to store the bullets correctly and inspect them, they should last much longer.
Do bullets have a shelf life?
The shelf life of bullets depends on a variety of factors, including the type of bullet, the storage conditions, and the type of gunpowder used. Most modern factory bullets are made of non-corrosive components and can last indefinitely in a dry and dark environment.
Military ammunition generally has a more limited shelf life due to the corrosive materials used in their gunpowder. Military ammunition should generally be used within 10 years and should be stored under cool and dry conditions to avoid corrosion and degradation of the bullet contents.
Older ammunition with black powder should be used within 5 years and should be stored in a cool, dry environment to prevent corrosion. The use of old ammo should be avoided as they can become unstable with age, leading to unpredictable results when fired.
Additionally, if exposed to moisture, bullets can corrode and deform, which can cause a firearm to jam or fail to fire safely. Bullets that are exposed to excessive heat can also become less stable and unsafe for use.
Lead bullets can also be prone to cracking or breaking when exposed to the elements.
In summary, bullets can last virtually indefinitely with proper storage, but military and black powder bullets may not last as long, depending on the storage conditions.
Is 30 year old ammo still good?
It depends. Generally speaking, cartridges that have been properly stored are still viable 30 or more years later. However, there are a few things to consider before using them. First and foremost, you should check the headstamp to ensure that the ammunition was made to current technical specifications.
Additionally, you should inspect the ammunition to make sure that the rounds have not been damaged during storage. In particular, you should check that the primers are still sealed and that the bullets and casing are still intact.
Lastly, you should review any additional instructions provided by the manufacturer to determine if there are any restrictions on the use of the ammunition. It is also important to note that some ammunition types can be more sensitive to the passing of time than others.
For instance, centerfire rifle cartridges are generally more durable than rimfire cartridges, making them more suitable for long-term storage.
How long does a bullet last in storage?
The lifespan of a bullet depends on a variety of factors, including the type of bullet and the conditions of its storage. A copper-jacketed FMJ bullet, for example, should last indefinitely as long as it is stored in a cool, dry place.
The same is generally true of lead-solid bullets, brass-plated bullets and polymer-coated bullets. However, if these bullets are left exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture or chemicals, their lifespan may be affected.
Lead-core bullets with a copper jacket, on the other hand, may start to show signs of corrosion after five to ten years, depending on the specific conditions of the storage environment. Finally, paintball rounds and other rubber-based bullets typically have a shorter lifespan of one to five years due to the effects of oxidation and environmental temperature.
Can bullets be too old?
Yes, bullets can be too old. Over time, bullets become corroded and their performance may be compromised. This is especially true of bullets made from brass, as brass is a softer metal and prone to corrosion.
Furthermore, old or corroded bullets may not feed properly or cause jamming in weapons. Additionally, the gunpowder in older bullets may have deteriorated, reducing their muzzle velocity and making them less accurate.
Ultimately, it is always wise to test old bullets before using them, as they may not perform as expected and may not be safe to fire.
Can 100 year old shoot ammo?
No, it is not safe or advisable for a 100 year old person to shoot ammo. Shooting ammunition requires some degree of strength, coordination, and dexterity – qualities that a 100 year old person might not possess.
Additionally, firearms of that age may not be safe to shoot due to wear and tear, as well as unpredictable firing pin actions and ammunition failure. The combination of the two can create an extremely dangerous situation.
Since ammunition is a hazardous and volatile material, it is in the best interests of a 100 year old person to entrust shooting responsibilities to someone else.
What is the average lifespan of ammunition?
The average lifespan of ammunition depends on several factors, such as where the ammunition is stored and how it is used. Ammunition stored in dry, temperature-controlled environments typically lasts longer than ammunition stored in wet, damp areas or exposed to intense heat or cold.
Ammunition used for practice or target shooting will typically last much longer than ammunition used for self-defense or military purposes. Generally speaking, stored ammunition can last anywhere from three to twenty years, depending on environmental conditions and usage.
How long is 30 30 ammo good for?
Ammunition has a shelf life, which is dependent on a variety of factors including storage temperature, the ammunition’s components, and the type of firearm for which it has been produced. Generally, ammunition stored at a moderated temperature (below 70°F) and kept free from moisture can typically last between 5 and 10 years before needing to be replaced.
If 30-30 ammo is kept in ideal conditions and manufactured with quality components, it can potentially last upwards of 10 years or longer. However, it is strongly recommended to check, use, or replace the ammunition if it’s been in storage for an extended period of time.
Quality control and safety are of utmost importance when dealing with ammunition.
Can you buy 9mm ammo at 20 years old?
Yes, you can buy 9mm ammo at 20 years old as long as you meet the necessary requirements. Federal law requires that you must be 21 years old to purchase handgun ammunition, but there are exceptions that allow certain individuals younger than 21 to purchase ammunition for a long gun, such as a rifle or shotgun.
In most states, individuals who are at least 18 years old can purchase rifle and shotgun ammunition, and those 14 and older can purchase ammunition for sporting guns with their parent’s or guardian’s written consent.
Additionally, if the ammunition purchase is done face to face between two private citizens, the age requirements for purchasing handgun ammunition are effectively suspended.
Your state may also have its own additional restrictions on purchasing handgun ammunition, so it is important to be familiar with the laws in your specific location. It is also important to remember that purchasing ammunition online, through a mail order, or across state lines may trigger additional age and license requirements that must be met.
For the safest and most legal ammo purchase, ensure that you are in full compliance with all applicable laws.
How do you know if bullets are bad?
First, it’s important to inspect the bullet casings to make sure they aren’t cracked or damaged in any way. If there is any visible damage, it’s time to dispose of the bullets and replace them with new ones.
Second, inspect the powder inside the casing. If there is no powder or the powder appears to be lumpy or discolored, this is another sign that the bullet is bad and needs to be discarded. Lastly, check for corrosion or rust on the surface of the bullets or inside of the casings.
Rust or corrosion can indicate improper storage or environmental conditions, which can have a damaging effect on the bullets themselves. If any of these signs are present, it’s important to get new bullets, as using old bullets can cause misfires and other hazardous situations.
Can you give ammo to a friend?
It depends on the context and the restrictions of your local laws and regulations in relation to firearms. Generally speaking, it can be acceptable to give ammo to a friend as long as you follow all applicable laws in your jurisdiction.
For example, in the U.S., ammunition must typically be sold by a licensed dealer, and anyone receiving ammunition must provide a state-issued photo ID and must be over a certain age. If the recipient is not eligible to purchase ammunition, it is illegal to give ammunition to that person, as this would be classified as a straw purchase.
It is also important to note that any person receiving ammunition must have the appropriate permits or licenses to own firearms in the state they are in, if required. There are also restrictions on which types of ammunition can be transferred between individuals.
If you are considering giving ammunition to a friend, it is best to contact the authorities in your jurisdiction to confirm any restrictions that may apply.
Can a felon buy bullets at Walmart?
No, a felon cannot buy bullets at Walmart. According to Walmart’s firearms purchasing policy, anyone attempting to purchase a firearm, ammunition, or any other firearm-related accessory must pass a background check and provide valid government-issued photo identification.
Since felons are not legally allowed to purchase firearms or ammunition, Walmart does not sell either to them. Walmart’s return policy also states that ammunition, firearms, and related firearm products are not returnable.
Walmart may also ask felons to leave the store upon attempting to purchase any of the listed items, as it is not able to complete the purchase.
Why did I get denied to buy ammo?
In some cases, it may be because you don’t meet the minimum age requirement set by the ammo retailer or because you don’t have the required ID showing you are of legal age. It could also be that you failed a background check, as many ammo retailers will require a background check to ensure the buyer is not prohibited from purchasing firearms or ammunition.
Other potential reasons include living in a jurisdiction with more stringent gun control laws (which may prohibit the sale of certain kinds of ammunition), or not having enough money to cover the purchase.
How old can ammo be and still be safe?
The longevity of ammunition can depend on the specific type of ammunition, as well as the storage conditions it has been kept in. Generally speaking, factory-made ammunition with a protective seal can last for many years if it has been stored properly.
This can range from 5 to 10 years for non-corrosive ammunition, and up to 20 years or more for some types of ammunition. Generally speaking, ammo should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture or temperature fluctuations.
If ammo has been exposed to extreme temperatures or high humidity, it should be replaced. While most older ammo is safe to use, always inspect it for any visible signs of corrosion or damage before using it.
What happens if you shoot old ammo?
If you shoot old ammo, it can be dangerous and unpredictable. Over time, ammunition can become unstable due to corrosion, dirt or even a change in temperature. Old ammo may not fire properly, and worse, could cause a jam.
It could also cause the bullet to deform, leading to potentially damaging consequences such as excessive fouling in the gun’s barrel or chamber, gas explosions and inaccurate shots. As such, if you suspect the ammo may be old, it is best to not use it and to discard it properly.
If you must use old ammo, inspect it carefully before firing and follow all recommended safety protocols, including ensuring both the shooter and bystanders are at a safe distance and wearing proper hearing, eye and body protection.
It is also important to keep all guns pointed in a safe direction, as an accidental discharge of old ammo could lead to serious injury.
