just how long does ammunition last?

[Ian]

I have a few boxes of Malaysian military ammo. M193 5.56MM.

The date on the box says 6 APR 1982.

I ran it through my AR and everything seemed fine. My question is : Is there ever like...an "expiration" date? Or will it pretty much last decades if stored properly?

Also, what consists of proper storage?

[762cavalier]

ammunition will last for a long time if stored properly. Proper storage is stored in a cool dry place. I have shot ammunition made in 1930 that worked just fine.

[Ian]

awesome. Thanks!

[ar15barrels]

Ammo lasts until you shoot it.
It's not uncommon to fire 50+ year old ammo and have it work just fine.

[Fat_Rat]

Its broken ill take it off your hands.

[den888]

I have recently fired rounds purchased in the late 1970's and early/mid 1980's with no issues whatsoever. These were stored properly.

[CSACANNONEER]

TWO WEEKS. If you have any older than that, please send it to me for proper disposal.

OK, I've seen +100 year old ammo work just fine. It's all about how it's been stored.

[gunboat]

Last year I finished off the last of my Scharf Patronnen 1888 in the 11mm mauser. Black powder, paper patched bullet.

[NRAhighpowershooter]

The oldest I have fired was TW52 (Twin Cities Arsenal 1952) M2 Ball for my Garands.....

[Sunwolf]

1918 WRA.

[rabagley]

I've fired WW I ammo through granddad's gun. Every shot went bang.