Ammo Stockpiling Considerations

Ammo Stockpiling Considerations

Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to go over some ammo stockpiling considerations today. We are going to cover various facets and things one should consider if they plan on building a stockpile of ammo. Without further ado, let’s talk about some important ammo stockpiling considerations.

What Does Stockpiling Mean?

Simply put, stockpiling in this context means ensuring one has a good supply of ammunition. This supply of ammunition can vary from having ample stock of ammo to cover one’s future range trips to huge stores of ammo purchased ahead of potential shortages or restrictions. Of course, for many the term “stockpile” evokes imagery of paranoid doomsday preppers and crazed news reports. While this connotation is present in many people’s heads, it is completely reasonable to build and maintain an ammo stockpile. Having a stockpile of ammunition is a completely normal thing for shooters to have. Having a healthy stash of ammunition simply ensures that one will have access to ammunition whenever they need it.

Why Stockpile Ammunition?

Simply put, by stockpiling ammunition, one can ensure that they have access to munitions for their firearms. This allows shooters to be prepared for many outings and range days to come. While one can buy ammunition for every range day they have, they are ultimately at the mercy of current availability. Keeping ample stock of ammunition on hand allows an end user to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to ammo shortages and price fluctuations. When supplies are low on shelves, those who stocked up on ammo beforehand will be well-off. Those who don’t have an existing supply of ammunition will essentially be at the mercy of what happens to be available on shelves at the time. In short, keeping a stockpile of ammunition is proactive and allows shooters to stay ahead of the curve. Purchase Bags & Cases

Proper Storage is Everything

Of course, one must ensure that the ammo they are stockpiling is stored properly. Improper storage can lead to ammunition decaying and going bad. Poorly stored ammo is exposed to the elements, meaning that rust, corrosion, and other decay can occur. Optimally, one will want to store ammunition in a dry area with a moderate temperature. Shooters can also employ things such as silica and other desiccants to stave off moisture. Additionally, many ammunition storage solutions feature rubber gaskets which seal contents from the elements and provide another layer of protection. In short, proper ammunition storage practices will allow an end user to maintain a stock of ammo for many years to come.

Good Calibers to Stock Up On

The following calibers are wise choices for shooters to stock up on. This is due to their popularity, accessibility, availability, and ability to easily be picked up in bulk ammo quantities. In addition to their prolific nature, shooters can find loadings for these calibers that are well-suited to a variety of use cases. These loadings include offerings optimized for use cases such as hunting, suppressed shooting, training, self-defense, and precision shooting to name a few. Handgun Calibers:

• 9mm
• .40 S&W
• .45 ACP
• 10mm Auto
• .38 Special
• .357 Magnum

Rifle Calibers:

• .223
• 5.56
• .308
• 7.62x51
• 7.62x39
• .300 Blackout
• 6.5 Creedmoor

Shotgun Ammo:

• 12 Gauge
• 20 Gauge
• .410 Bore

Rimfire Calibers:

• .22 Long Rifle
• .22 Magnum

What Should I Store Ammo In?

Ammunition can be effectively stored in a variety of containers. These containers can range from metal or plastic ammo cans to zippered bags. Of course, these storage solutions come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, providing shooters with many offerings. While metal ammo cans are classic mainstays, plastic ammo cans offer lightweight alternatives which are resistant to the elements. Offerings from companies such as MTM represent durable and efficient plastic ammo cans which can easily be stacked and store ammunition. Additionally, shooters can employ things such as Savior Equipment Loose Sac ammo carriers. These products are great for range use and for helping build a stockpile of ammunition. A single Loose Sac can contain a great deal of ammo, making it a versatile storage solution. Additionally, Loose Sacs can easily be stored in other containers and labeled with the included Velcro tag to help identify contents. These are just a few of the effective ways shooters can store their ammo stockpile. Purchase Bags & Cases

Shooting and Stockpile Cycle

One can properly and effectively develop an efficient shooting and stockpile cycle. This is to say that one shoots ammunition that has been in their stockpile and replaces it with fresh ammunition to maintain stock. By doing so, one can ensure stock is replenished as it is depleted while also cycling through older ammo. While ammunition does not have a hard expiration date, manufacturers typically claim their products have a 10-to-20-year shelf life. Of course, when stored properly, ammunition can be good to use for decades more than manufacturers state with proper storage being key. So, in short, this practice is effective when maintaining a stockpile of ammo while also actually going out to shoot. By adopting this type of cycle, shooters can both enjoy their ammo and firearms while routinely restocking.

Military Surplus Ammo Options

Of course, military surplus ammunition is commonly used by those who wish to build their stocks of ammunition. These types of loadings typically come in bulk ammo quantities and are often stored in efficient, protective containers. Military surplus ammo containers typically span from iconic “spam cans” to wooden crates that contain sealed metal boxes. These loadings and their containers were purpose built to be stored for long periods of times and be resistant to the elements. Military surplus ammunition has the potential to serve as a great means to jumpstart one’s stockpile. Of course, one should be ready to deal with potentially corrosive ammunition when shooting surplus ammunition. Nonetheless, military surplus ammo serves as a solid option for building an ammunition stockpile.

Conclusion

All in all, it truly pays to maintain a healthy stockpile of ammunition. Having an established stock of ammunition allows an end user to stay ahead of shortages or dry spells of ammunition. We here at True Shot Ammo have loadings for a variety of use cases such as hunting, competition, suppressed shooting, training and self-defense. Whether you want to buy individual boxes or buy bulk ammo we have you covered. As always, happy shooting.