How to Store Guns and Ammunition Safely

Proper storage of guns and ammunition is a key part of responsible firearm ownership. Whether you’re new to firearms or just need a refresher, let’s walk through safe, effective ways to store your guns and ammo.

Keep Firearms and Ammunition Clean, Dry, and Secure

Storing your guns and ammunition the right way starts with three simple rules: keep them clean, dry, and secure. Let’s break that down.

Avoid Temperature and Moisture Problems

Control the Environment

Firearms and ammunition should never be stored in places with wide temperature swings or high humidity. Rapid changes in temperature cause condensation—moisture that builds up on metal and can lead to rust and corrosion.

Unless climate controlled, avoid storing firearms in areas like:

• Garages
• Sheds
• Attics
• Damp basements
  

Instead, choose a place where the temperature stays fairly constant.

Use Dehumidifiers or Desiccants

To keep moisture away, use a dehumidifier or desiccant packs in your storage space. These remove extra moisture from the air and protect both firearms and ammunition from rust.

Let Firearms Acclimate Before Storing

If you’ve just come in from outside, don’t put your firearm directly into a case or safe. Let it adjust to the room’s temperature first. This prevents moisture from building up inside your storage area.

Don’t Store Guns in Fabric or Foam Cases

Many gun owners make the mistake of using soft cases or foam-lined plastic cases for long-term storage. These are fine for transport but can trap moisture next to the metal surface of the gun.

Instead, use a gun rack or safe that:

• Allows air to flow around each firearm
• Keeps guns from touching each other
• Prevents scratches or dings

Before storing, wipe your firearm down with a light coat of gun oil to help protect against rust.

Best Practices for Storing Ammunition

Ammo needs the same, if not more, care as your firearms. Wet or corroded ammunition can become completely unusable or, worse yet, unstable and unsafe. Most of the ways you can store firearms also apply to ammunition, but it’s best to use military-grade ammo cans.

These cans are made from thick metal and have strong rubber seals to keep out air and moisture. Ammo cans have been known to keep ammunition dry during floods. Benefits include:

• Long-lasting protection
• Stackable for easy storage
• Available in different sizes
• Affordable and found at most gun shops or surplus stores

They’re a small but important expense for safe and secure firearm ownership.

Always remember to reference your state and local laws regarding ammunition storage. Some areas require you store firearms and ammunition in separate, locked containers. 

Make Security a Priority

Prevent Unauthorized Access

Storing firearms securely isn’t just about theft. It’s about keeping them out of the hands of anyone who shouldn’t have access, especially children or visitors.

Security options include:

• Trigger locks
• Locking gun cabinets
• Gun safes
• Vault rooms

Your choice will depend on your living situation, local laws, and budget. At a minimum, use a quality locking storage system that keeps your firearms and ammunition secure.

Ammo Storage Deserves the Same Security

It’s easy to forget how valuable your ammunition is. In many cases, you may have just as much money invested in your ammo as in your firearms. Keep your ammo locked up in accordance with local laws, just like your guns.

And remember: a wet firearm might still function, but wet ammunition will not.

Final Tips

Here’s a quick summary of proper storage practices:

• Store guns and ammo in a dry, stable environment
• Use a dehumidifier or desiccant to fight moisture
• Avoid storing in soft or foam-lined cases
• Wipe down firearms with oil before storing
• Use secure, lockable storage for both guns and ammo

Your firearms and ammunition are valuable tools for sport, protection, and training. Treat them with care and store them right.