23 March 2002, 13:40
<Tanker>Reloads Shelf Life??
Is there a generally accepted shelf life for reloaded ammo? I have some 22-250 and .357 that I did about 30 years ago. Physical appearance looks good.
23 March 2002, 15:24
p dog shooterI just shot some 357's that I dated back in 1981 no trouble . I bought out a old reloader's stuff I found some 38's dated 1961 shot them up with out any trouble.
If you keep them cool and dry most likely a very long time 50 100 years wouldn't be unreasonable.
23 March 2002, 16:31
Zero DriftTanker - Welcome to the forum. New blood is a good thing.
The problem with older reloads is bullet bonding to the brass. Some call it fusion. In any event, over a long period of time, bullets can stick to the brass raising pressures a little. I would certainly pull a few bullets and inspect the powder. If it is reddish, it has oxidized and should be tossed. Otherwise you should be OK.
24 March 2002, 05:20
<eldeguello>I have some rifle ammo that I loaded in the late '60's and early 70's. Recent test-firing of some of this ammo showed no change in velocity or accuracy. It depends upon how you store your ammo. I keep mine in GI .50 cal. ammo cans in a cool dry environment, and have had no problems.