Storing rimfire ammo and rifles: shelf life, heat, moisture and kids
Written in our own words from the sources cited after each fact. We haven't run hands-on tests for this page; where sources disagree we say so. Prefer the primary source (SAAMI, the maker, the governing body) if anything here conflicts with it.
Ammunition
SAAMI's storage guidance boils down to a few rules[SAAMI]:
- Keep it in its original packaging or a container made for ammunition.
- Store it cool and dry, away from heat sources, flame and chemicals such as solvents.
- Don't leave it in a hot vehicle.
- Keep it out of reach of children and unauthorized people.
Rimfire priming is sensitive to contamination, and voids in the mix cause misfires[NIJ firearms examiner training], so keep oil and solvent away from cartridges.
Rifles
Store rifles unloaded and secured, with ammunition stored separately[SAAMI]. Clean and lightly oil per your manual; see rimfire cleaning.