Does AMMO Go Bad with Age?  

Believe it or not, ammunition CAN go bad with age. However, the degradation rate and extent depend entirely on key factors.

Proper storage is pertinent to maintaining ammunition. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture, extreme temperatures and direct sunlight as humidity can lead to corrosion and heat can accelerate chemical reactions. High quality ammunition and primers that are properly sealed last longer since the sealing can prevent moisture from creeping in.

Different types of ammo can make all the difference, as well. For example, rimfire cartridges tend to be more susceptible to degradation than centerfire cartridges due to their construction.  

Signs that ammunition may have degraded:  

• Corrosion on the casing  
• Discoloration of the brass  
• Powdery appearance on the cartridge

While degraded ammunition may still fire, its reliability, accuracy, and consistency can be compromised. For safety and performance reasons, it’s recommended to periodically inspect and replace old ammunition, especially if stored under less-than-ideal conditions.

If you have old or expired ammunition that you no longer wish to use or that you suspect may have degraded, here are some responsible ways to handle it:  

1. Check Local Laws and Regulations before disposing of ammunition since some areas may have specific guidelines on how to dispose safely.
2. Contact Local Law Enforcement since some may accept old or unwanted ammunition for disposal.  
3. Dispose at a Hazardous Waste Facility if all else fails.  
4. Do Not throw your ammo in the trash or burn it, as these methods can be dangerous or illegal. Additionally, do not attempt to dismantle the ammo unless you are trained with the proper tools. 

Once disposal of old ammo is complete, check out the Target Sports USA page for great deals to restock.

Purchase our AMMO+ Membership for 8% off all ammo and free shipping!