The best ammo storage can is a must-have if you want to keep your ammo safe and secure, no matter what type of gun or round you have. Rather than leave it lying around the house — where it could be at risk from children or intruders — investing in one of these rugged cans means that all your ammunition is locked away safely and securely.
The best ammo storage can will also help you to organize your supplies so that they're not cluttering up valuable floor space. So whether you're looking for a large container for shotgun shells or something more compact for handguns and rifle rounds, there are plenty of options out there to suit your requirements.
If you have a lot of different types of ammo, then we'd recommend going for one of the larger models with multiple shelves as this will give you plenty of room to store everything safely and neatly. If space is an issue in your home, then some smaller options are available too so that you can still keep the most used rounds easily accessible while keeping other types hidden away out of sight.
We've rounded up our top picks below including containers from brands like Brownells and Plano that know exactly what works when it comes to storing firearms safely. If you need more guidance on choosing the right model for you, then check out our buying guide which outlines all the key features that every good ammo storage can should have.
How We Choose
We've reviewed and rated the best ammo storage cans based on our expert opinions. We've considered things like build quality, durability, customer satisfaction scores and price to come up with a list of canisters that will keep your ammo safe and secure. We understand that everyone's needs are different, so we've included a range of options in terms of size and style. You'll find canisters made from metal, plastic and even wood if you want something more decorative for display purposes.
MTM Ammo Can - Dry Storage Box - AC11
MTM Ammo Can - Dry Storage Box - AC11
The MTM Ammo Can is a great choice for those who need a storage box that can handle the weight of ammo without giving way. With its triple-padlock closure, this can offers an excellent seal against unwanted entry and is also water-resistant to keep your ammunition secure when you're out in wet conditions.
The MTM Ammo Can's rugged polypropylene construction makes it resistant to knocks and bumps, while the O-ring seal keeps your gear dry even after you've been out in all weathers. The triple ridges on its stacking lid help with sliding these boxes into position too, so this is a versatile option that can be used for lots of different storage needs.
MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can (Zombie)
MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can (Zombie)
The MTM ammo can is one of the best options for those who want to store their ammo in a waterproof container. It's not only waterproof, it's also fireproof and crushproof, so you don't have to worry about your ammo getting damaged if anything happens to your can.
The MTM can has a reinforced bottom that makes it sturdy and durable while still remaining lightweight at just 0.77 pounds when empty. The lid screws on securely with two setscrews per side, which are easy to access even when the lid is on because of the large handles molded into the top and sides of the can.
Sheffield 12627 Field Box, Pistol, Rifle, or Shotgun Ammo Storage Box, Tamper-Proof Locking Ammo Can, Water Resistant, Made in The U.S.A, Stackable, Tan
Sheffield 12627 Field Box, Pistol, Rifle, or Shotgun Ammo Storage Box, Tamper-Proof Locking Ammo Can, Water Resistant, Made in The U.S.A, Stackable, Tan
Our favorite ammo box is the Sheffield Watertight Storage Box. It has a waterproof compression lid, which keeps moisture and dust out, as well as an interlocking system for stacking. Three locking mechanisms keep this box secure from prying eyes, which is important if you want to store ammunition.
It also includes a sturdy base with a molded lip that's great for protecting your gear against scratches and dings in the event of travel or storage mishaps. The handle makes it easy to carry when you're on the go, too.
Weighing just over two pounds, this ammo container is excellent for outdoor use or even traveling with your gun collection -- it's so rugged it'll survive drops and tumbles without breaking. At $16.99 per can, we think these are very reasonably priced considering how durable they are and how much space they offer per dollar spent compared to other options on our list.
Best Ammo Storage Cans FAQs
There are several types of ammo cans, but which one is the best for your needs?
It can be tough to figure out which one you should get. There are so many different options out there! We've created a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions about ammo cans and our top recommendations for each one. With this information, you'll be able to confidently make an informed purchase decision.
What Is The Best Container To Store Ammunition In?
The best container to store ammunition in depends on how you plan to use your ammo ammo crate, and how much of it you have. Most people will want to store their ammunition indoors in a cool, dry place that's not exposed to extreme cold or hot temperatures. If you only have a small amount of ammo, it's probably best to buy the appropriate gun safe and keep the ammo locked away there.
If you have large quantities of ammo – for example, if you're part of law enforcement or military forces – then ,metal ammo metal ammunition cans are the way to go. These containers protect from both moisture and heat, but unlike plastic containers they won't melt if put in direct contact with fire for an extended period of time.
Are Ammo Cans Good For Storing Ammo?
While not the best option, ammo cans ammo storage container can be used to store ammunition. However, they are far from the best solution. Ammo cans proper ammo storage don't seal very well and will let in moisture which could cause your ammo to rust. Additionally, many people find that it's difficult to get all of their ammo out of an ammo can when they need it – especially if you have lots of large caliber rounds like 12 gauge or 45 ACP.
A much better option is a sealed plastic box specifically designed for storing ammunition. These boxes offer superior protection against water and the lid locks shut so your ammo won't accidentally spill out while you're transporting it or reloading your firearm at the range. They also have room for several boxes of each type of round so you'll be able to access them quickly and easily when you need them most.
Plastic waterproof cases like those made by Stormproof Matches are another good storage solution for any kind of ammunition – whether handgun, shotgun shells or rifle bullets.
Are plastic ammo cans Good For Long Term Storage in ammo storage containers?
Ammo cans are great for short-term storage ammo storage solutions best ammo storage containers, and you can definitely get away with using them for a year or so if you're just setting aside some emergency supplies. They're sturdy, waterproof, and fairly airtight, which is ideal if you want to keep your items secure while they're in storage until you need them.
If you have the budget for it and have enough room, we would recommend purchasing metal ammunition cans that are designed specifically for long term use. These will be sturdier and better made than the plastic versions. Make sure to check out our guide on how to store ammo properly so that your bullets stay in good condition over the years.
How Does The Military Store Ammo Cans?
Military ammo cans ammo boxes are stored in a variety of ways, depending on how long they'll be unused. Freshly-purchased mint condition cans are best stored at room temperature in a dry place. These can be used immediately if need be, and the sealed metal is great at protecting contents from water damage.
Older cans or those with dents or rust may not be as suitable for immediate service, so you should consider storing them in a freezer to help prevent damage from moisture over the long term. While many people use plastic storage bins for this purpose, note that the salt inside can harm some types of plastic over time. Be sure to check your storage container's label for its recommended freezer storage time and salt content before relying upon it for this purpose.
Is It Better To Store Ammo In Plastic Or Metal?
There are advantages and disadvantages to storing your ammo ammo stockpile in plastic or metal containers. Plastic ammo containers are generally less expensive than metal, but they can also be more susceptible to damage from heat and cold.
Plastic cases can sometimes trap moisture, which can create an environment for rusting in shelf life. On the other hand, metal ammunition containers ammunition storage are better at blocking out moisture and foreign materials that could cause damage to your ammo.
Conclusion
The best ammo storage cans are those that provide reliable protection for your valuable ammunition. They should be made from sturdy materials that can withstand rough handling, and come in sizes to suit different needs. Additionally, they should have secure lids to prevent dust and moisture from entering the can, as well as handles for easy carrying. There are many options available on the market today; it's just a matter of finding one that meets your specific requirements. By doing some research and knowing what features to look for, you can find a great ammo storage can that will help keep your bullets safe without breaking the bank.
MTM Ammo Can - Dry Storage Box - AC11