22lr ammo.... Truth or myth

[Biggsly]

Been told by many over the years that 22lr will go bad over time. Is this true, or is it a myth?
I keep my ammo in ammo cans and I do keep a good supply of 22lr. Just wonder if I should split it up and rotate it out.
If this is so, how long is it good for?

 

[OKCHunter]

I've almost shot a case of the Federal 525 Value Pack (5,250 total) that I purchased about 3 years ago. No problems during that short storage period. I suspect you are asking about much longer storage periods?

 

[superdave65]

Anything over two years old you should give to me to dispose of safely. I've got .22 ammo that is 40 years old and works perfectly, every time.

 

[OKCHunter]

... I've got .22 ammo that is 40 years old and works perfectly, every time.

That is good to hear.

 

[Mr10mm]

I have some from 80's that goes bang everytime. But to answer your question. I have no clue how long before it goes bad. Edit I guess they made the lead white back then.

 

[Biggsly]

Makes me feel better. I like to buy a bulk pack everytime I shoot and then I dump whatever is left in the ammo can.

 

[Perplexed]

A lot will depend on how and where you store the ammo. In a spot with large changes in humidity and temperature, any ammo will likely not last as long as in a cool, dry location.

 

[JesseR]

In my ammo can's I've stated adding silica packs when I pack it loose after confirming I have a good seal. My father and I just shot the last of some Remington from 1994 without issues, almost 20 years old..

 

[p238shooter]

Anything over two years old you should give to me to dispose of safely. I've got .22 ammo that is 40 years old and works perfectly, every time.

Same here, kept it out in the shed away from the house in case of fire, made sure it never got rained on.

 

[criticalbass]

Old ammo can develop a white crust (lead oxide I suspect)and this makes it a lead hazard. Should be cleaned before handling. I use a disposable cloth, face mask, and disposable gloves. Stupid enough without absorbing any more lead . . .

That said, the stuff seems eternal. I have some from the 1960s that shoots just fine.