Take a look at a MSDS for smokeless powder and priming compound. Winchester's are easy to find. They state that the shelf life is "indefinite" when stored at a temp of below 100 degrees, in original container, etc.
The key is how it is stored.
I have some 30 year old 22 ammo that was left in the farm house, it shoots every time I pull the trigger but most of the brass splits down the sides. I am thinking that eventhough it was kept dry, the heat and cold swings over the years has made it brittle.
I have some 30 year old 22 ammo that was left in the farm house, it shoots every time I pull the trigger but most of the brass splits down the sides. I am thinking that eventhough it was kept dry, the heat and cold swings over the years has made it brittle.
I think rimfire ammo, and nearly all metallic cartridges are good for decades if stored properly.
I will say that I have had shotgun shells that went bad because the plastic hulls became brittle and split lengthwise after about 10yrs or so.
Specifically winchester brand pheasant loads.
Biggsly, I have a sealed brick of Russian .22lr ammo I bought in 1995. Maybe we can meet up sometime at H&H and we'll open it and see how well it shoots.
I'll bet that it will go bang every single time.
I will say that I have had shotgun shells that went bad because the plastic hulls became brittle and split lengthwise after about 10yrs or so.
Specifically winchester brand pheasant loads.
Biggsly, I have a sealed brick of Russian .22lr ammo I bought in 1995. Maybe we can meet up sometime at H&H and we'll open it and see how well it shoots.
I'll bet that it will go bang every single time.
