How long can u effectively store 22lr ammo

[696k]

The title says it all. I have some self-titled experts who say it will go bad and others who say that properly stored 22 long rifle can be kept indefinitely.

So not being a 22lr storage guy I thought I would ask for opinions here...

[socaldsal]

Depends, how long can you keep it dry and away from moisture build-up? If you do that, it should be fine for a while. I shot some OLD 22lr manufactured 1983 no problems, and I've shot Aguila made this year and about 20/50 were bad and were FTF.

[Mssr. Eleganté]

My stuff from the mid 1970's is still going strong. It was stored in .50 caliber ammo cans and has less duds than brand new Remington .22LR. I've also shot a few boxes from the early 1960's that were just stored in a shoebox on a closet shelf. They all worked fine, but the lead bullets had turned white.

[dhenry132]

I have some from the mid 70's that shoots just fine.
Kept inside in ammo cans also. Have some powder from the same time the works too.

[VegasND]

^^
^
My experience is the same. I've got some .22 left from the '70s that shoots fine; from Montgomery Ward and cost $5 / 500.

[Sunwolf]

From the 60`s and still good.

[Californio]

I have some from 1946-47, still good.

[popeye4]

Time does not degrade the ammo, but other conditions can. If you keep it cool and dry, it should last longer than you will (or your kids, or grandkids....)

[DVSmith]

I have some from 1946-47, still good.

According to Winchester:

Question: What is the shelf life of ammunition and how should it be disposed of?

Answer: The shelf life of ammunition is indefinite, greatly depending on the storage conditions. Ammunition that has been stored in a cool, dry area, free of contaminates may very well last 30 years or beyond. The best method of disposing of ammunition is by an incineration facility.

http://www.winchester.com/contactus/faq/faqview.aspx?questionid=115&question=&history=0

[696k]

Thanks for the info all...I kinda figured it was more a store it properly answer than it all goes bad eventually...Thanks for the replies!

[Sam Z]

I have some .22 lr from 1978 remington, it looks better than the stuff you get at wal mart now!