6 Best Ammo Storage Containers: With Buyers Guide
Over the years, I’ve built up a pretty decent firearm collection, which meant I had to expand my reserve of ammunition alongside it, and I needed a lot of ammo storage containers to store different kinds of ammo and stock a lot of it.
I remember the trouble I went through to find options that match all my requirements. So I decided to put together a guide with my top recommendations of ammo storage containers and factors to consider if you’re looking for a solid storage solution.
Gun University’s Choices of the Best Ammo Storage Containers
Best Ammo Storage Containers
Best overall MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can) |
| Buy on Amazon | |
Best budget Plano Field Box |
| Buy on Amazon | |
Best Military Grade Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can |
| Buy on Amazon | |
Best portability Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case |
| Buy on Amazon | |
Best for storage MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box |
| Buy on Amazon | |
Best security Sheffield 12629 Field Box |
| Buy on Amazon |
Best Ammo Storage Containers Spec Comparison
Below is a table of the specifications for storage container. Click the name of the item to jump to that review.
Ammo Storage Conainer | Material | Seal | Closure Type | Caliber |
---|---|---|---|---|
MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can) | Polypropylene | O-ring seal | Latch | Multi-caliber |
Plano Field Box | Plastic | O-ring seal | Snap-down latch | .30 |
Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can | Metal | Rubber gasket | Welded lock | .30, .50 |
Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case | Alloy steel | Rubber gasket | Latch | .30, .50 |
MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box | Polypropylene | Tongue and groove O ring seal system | Double padlock tabs and latches | .30, .50 |
Sheffield 12629 Field Box | Plastic | Compression fit lid | Base-to-lid interlocking system | Multi-caliber |
Best Ammo Storage Containers
Here is our list for the best containers for storing ammo:
- MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can)
- Plano Field Box
- Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can
- Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case
- MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box
- Sheffield 12629 Field Box
Best Ammo Storage Containers – Reviews
I got my ammo storage containers prioritizing features like portability, security, and more for different situations. So I sorted my recommendations according to the category they fit the best. The categories and the reviews should be able to point you in the right direction.
Best Overall MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can)
MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can)
A rugged and stackable carrying crate for ammo storage and transport.
- Storage A+
- Durability A-
- Portability A+
- Security A-
- Overall A+
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
Your Grade
Do You Own This Accessory? Leave A Review
Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score
We use email to verify the accuracy of our reviews. We promise to never spam you.
MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can) Specs
- Material Polypropylene
- Seal O-ring seal
- Weight 5.9 lbs
- Closure type Latch
- Caliber Multi-caliber
MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can) Review
My best overall pick is the MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can) because it can store any kind of ammunition caliber, comes in a convenient size, and has a very secure seal.
The MTM Ammo Crate is pretty sturdy, considering it’s made of plastic material. Polypropylene is a tough and rigid plastic anyway, so it’s not a surprise that the crate is solid. It’s large enough to pack up a lot of ammo and small enough to slide under my bed. This makes it the ideal size to take on a few days’ trip to a hunting ground ***or training class*** because it holds around 100 lbs of ammo.
The sealing is one of the strongest points of this container: it has an O-ring seal secured around the inner rim of its lid, helping to keep out air and moisture. In fact, my buddy in Florida had his garage waterlogged after the rains last summer, and the MTM Ammo Crates in his garage were partly submerged for around half a day. Fortunately, not a droplet got inside, which I think says a lot about how well the O-ring seal works. If you need the extra assurance, I suggest using desiccant packs of silica gel to absorb moisture. I put a couple inside my MTM Ammo Crates like I always do for all my ammo storage containers, so if moisture gets in somehow, the packs absorb it and keep my ammo dry.
The MTM Ammo Crate has a few options with different numbers of cans (3, 4, and 5 cans), so you can pick the one that works for you. I went with the 4-can one because the size of the container and the number of rounds it can hold suited my needs. I can take off the cans individually from the crate, allowing me to take only the number of rounds I need to the range. As for caliber, I store my .30s in the MTM Ammo Crate, but you can go for any caliber as long as the shells are shorter than the cans.
I also like how this crate has grooves and peg holes built into its top and base to make it stackable. However, the issue is it can only be stacked properly with the same type of crates–not even another model from the same brand fits in. It’s a bummer if you’ve got only a couple of these, but I can make a decent stack with the 4 units I have. The topmost crate was full of ammo and the crates below were straining a bit under its weight, so I had to rebuild the stack with the heavier crate at the bottom. The plastic straining under pressure is a concern because if it creates any gaps, the seal won’t be effective. I haven’t run into this kind of endurance issue so far, but I suggest taking extra care if you want to stack a few fully loaded MTM Ammo Crates.
The MTM Ammo Crate–the 4-can variant–goes for around $50, which puts it on the expensive side of ammo storage containers, seeing as some retail under 10 bucks. I don’t mind the price though; if I forgive the endurance issue, this ammo storage container is nearly perfect. Therefore, if you are looking for a secure and a portable ammo storage container, you won’t go wrong with the MTM Ammo Crate.
MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can) Pros and Cons
- Stackable
- Multi-ammo storage
- Individually lockable and portable cans
- Expensive
- Strains under pressure
Best budget Plano Field Box
Plano Field Box
A plastic ammo storage box with o ring and locking latch.
- Storage A-
- Durability A-
- Portability A+
- Security B+
- Overall A-
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
Your Grade
Do You Own This Accessory? Leave A Review
Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score
We use email to verify the accuracy of our reviews. We promise to never spam you.
Plano Field Box Specs
- Material Plastic
- Seal O-ring seal
- Weight 1 lb
- Closure type Snap-down latch
- Caliber .30
Plano Field Box Review
Plano Field Box is my pick for the best budget because it’s quite portable and protects my stockpile from the elements. It does this at an incredibly affordable price of around $10.
It’s made of high-quality plastic, making it both durable and lightweight. Its walls are also thicker than most ammo storage containers. Plus, it’s pretty compact, so the box is rigid and doesn’t flex if you put in a lot of weight. This is pretty great because I can carry an entire day’s supply of ammo in one Plano Field Box without it straining under the weight.
The recommended caliber for the Plano Field Box is .30, but I’ve carried loose rounds of 9mms and 45 ACPs on separate occasions. I’m yet to carry packaged ammo in the Plano Field Box, but it’s said to fit 6-8 boxes of .30 caliber.
What I like the most about the Plano Field Box is its portability. It’s compact and has a very sturdy handle with a comfortable grip. This means I can carry it with no issues while driving (or walking) to the range. The box’s snap-down latch makes it easy to lock and open, which is ideal when you’re out in the field.
The Field Box has an O-ring seal and a rubber gasket running around the inner edge of the lid, making the container pretty resistant to water and moisture. In fact, just the other day I got caught in a drizzle while walking to the range with my Field Box and when I opened the container, it was completely dry–not a single drop of water had gone in. That said, I haven’t tried submerging the box so if you might be in a situation where your ammo storage could be under water, I suggest testing the seals beforehand.
This kind of water-resistant and portable storage is tough to beat at this price point. But there are a few things you should consider if you want to get a Plano Field Box. First off, the compact size means you can store less of large ammo. Even if you store only small rounds, you’ll probably run out if you’re off on a few days’ hunting trip. Second, as they make the Field Box of plastic, it can be pried open with a tool so it’s not exactly theft-proof.
The compact carry size of the Plano Field Box makes it ideal for a single trip, so if the shooting location is secure and the risk of ammo being stolen is low, the security shouldn’t be a huge concern.
As a budget option though, the Plano Field Box is an excellent choice. It seals well and protects your ammo from the elements, which is the biggest use of an ammo storage container; its portability and durability make the deal sweeter.
Plano Field Box Pros and Cons
- Portable
- Lightweight and compact
- Water-resistant seal
- Can be pried open
- Capacity – Not enough storage for long hunting trips
Best military grade Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can
Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can
A sturdy metal ammo can with a welded lockable loop closure.
- Storage A-
- Durability A+
- Portability B+
- Security A+
- Overall A-
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
Your Grade
Do You Own This Accessory? Leave A Review
Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score
We use email to verify the accuracy of our reviews. We promise to never spam you.
Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can Specs
- Material Metal
- Seal Rubber gasket
- Weight 4 – 6 lbs
- Closure type Welded lock
- Caliber .30, .50
Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can Review
If you’re looking for a military-grade ammo storage container, my pick is the Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can which landed as the best of the category because of its rugged make and heavy-duty locks and seals.
The Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can is great for long-term storage because it’s sturdy, stackable, and doesn’t strain under the weight of the stockpile. So if you have a lot of ammo to store, a few of these will do the trick.
It’s made of steel and has a powder coating all across the interior and exterior, which locks out moisture so the chances of the metal corroding are low. The Ammo Can is heavy compared to others on my list though, so it adds a bit to the overall weight when your rounds are stored in it–that’s why I rarely take this out on my hunts. I love the black matte finish too; it’s not exactly camo, but it’s not too flashy either. So it would stay low-key if you take it on a hunt and want to stay hidden.
The Ammo Can has a rubber gasket running around the inner rim of the lid keeping the elements out and the folks at Solid Tactical added a desiccant pack along with the container–that was a nice touch. The fact that the container also doesn’t rust easily is pretty great because it reduces the chances of the shells rusting, which is further supported by a sealing mechanism that protects my ammo from moisture and air.
While the sealing is great, I do have an issue with the locks on the Ammo Can. First off, I had to buy the welded lock kit separately. This wasn’t ideal because it was an added expense and a hassle to fasten it. Secondly, bolt cutters can cut apart the lock loop, making it easy for anyone with the right tool to get to the stockpile. I’d assumed an ammo storage container of military-grade would have more impressive security, so this is a bit of a bummer. I mostly use this as long-term storage at home, which is pretty secure. While this aspect doesn’t affect me much, it’s still something to consider if your primary use will be outdoors.
Keep in mind that this container is also on the expensive side–it retails around $50, but you can get it for around $40 if you get a good deal. Security is an issue, but if you can work around it or plan to keep it at home, the Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can is worth it for the price as it’s a sturdy and durable ammo storage container.
Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can Pros and Cons
- Airtight and watertight
- Stackable
- Includes a desiccant packet
- Sturdy
- Lock – Lock has to be purchased separately
- Lock Loop Lock loop could be cut with bolt cutters
- Heavy
Best portability Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case
Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case
A sturdy metal ammo can.
- Storage A-
- Durability A+
- Portability A-
- Security B-
- Overall A-
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
Your Grade
Do You Own This Accessory? Leave A Review
Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score
We use email to verify the accuracy of our reviews. We promise to never spam you.
Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case Specs
- Material Alloy steel
- Seal Rubber gasket
- Weight 1.76, 2.69 lbs
- Closure type Latch
- Caliber .30, .50
Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case Review
The Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case is my pick for best portability because it’s just the right size and design to carry around. It comes in two caliber size options: 30 and .50, and I got .50 because I wanted a portable carry option for my .308 cartridges since they take up a decent amount of space.
The Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case is very sturdy and thick because it’s made of alloy steel. It sits in the bottom of my stockpile pretty well because it can withstand the weight without straining. This is thanks to the heavy gauge steel construction that makes it hold well under pressure.
The handle is pretty solid and comfortable to hold, and the Ammo Case is lightweight, so carrying the box is easy. Mine is the larger box of the two size options, but it wasn’t too bulky for the trunk of my pickup or to take it along into the bush. The color is a nice touch on the Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case–it’s painted a camo green that blends extremely well with my gear and outfit so it doesn’t look out of place, especially when I need to stay under the radar while on a hunt.
There’s an airtight rubber gasket lining the ammo case rim which protects my ammo from water, dust, and debris and the lid is designed to close around the outer wall, making the seal more effective. I tested if the seals are watertight and I couldn’t be more pleased with the result! There was not a drop of water–not even moisture–in the ammo box after 3 hours of sitting fully submerged in the water.
The latch is easy to open–almost too easy to open, in my opinion. It’s nice that my ammo is easily accessible, but ideally there should be some resistance when the latch opens and closes for more security; I wouldn’t want it to snap open if I drive into a pothole and cause the box to bump into the side of the trunk. You can always get a new add-on lock for more security, but that’s inconvenient because there’s no lock loop and it’s a hassle to drill a new loop to fasten it to the latch. I ended up getting a cable padlock which sorted the issue, but I wish Redneck Convent had a solution for this.
Even so, I’d still go with the Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case because of its seals, portability, and color, especially considering it sells for under 20 bucks for the whole package.
Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case Pros and Cons
- Waterproof
- Heavy-duty handle
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Camouflage color
- No lock loop
- Lid opens too easily
Best for storage MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box
MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box
A stackable plastic ammo storage box.
- Storage A+
- Durability B+
- Portability B+
- Security B+
- Overall B+
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
Your Grade
Do You Own This Accessory? Leave A Review
Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score
We use email to verify the accuracy of our reviews. We promise to never spam you.
MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box Specs
- Material Polypropylene
- Seal Tongue and groove O-ring seal system
- Weight 1 lbs
- Closure type Double padlock tabs and two strong latches
- Caliber .30, .50
MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box Review
My go to for storage is the MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box as it holds a ton of ammo, stacks well, and has a pretty good seal.
The MTM Utility Box is sturdy and stackable, so I can pile up a few in my garage without them toppling over or snapping under the weight. MTM says you can carry up to 85 lbs of ammo in the MTM Utility Box, but its handles aren’t strong enough to support the weight–I took it hunting and the handle gave away, so I settled on using it for my stockpile at home. I still take mine when I go on hunting trips just to store my gear and ammo in the back of my truck.
As for security, the MTM Utility Box is lockable, but both locking loops are plastic and won’t do much against an adult with tools. The locks are located on either side of the box, so you only need to unlock one side to open it, which seems to defeat the purpose of the second lock. Considering I’m recommending this for storage though, if your gun room is secure, you don’t really have to worry about the security of the MTM Utility Box.
It’s also got an airtight O-ring seal that protects ammo from dust and moisture, but it’s not fully waterproof so you can’t submerge it. I don’t mind this much personally, because I don’t think my MTM Utility Box will get flooded or drowned at home (fingers crossed).
All in all, the MTM Utility Box may not be the best storage container for usage outdoors, but if you’re just looking for something to store your ammo reserve and stack it up nice and tidy, it’ll get the job done.
MTM ACR8-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box Pros and Cons
- Stackable
- Airtight
- Can hold up to 85 pounds of gear
- Not submersible
- Not very secure
Best security Sheffield 12629 Field Box
Sheffield 12629 Field Box
A stackable plastic ammo storage box with latch and padlock locations.
- Storage B+
- Durability A-
- Portability A+
- Security A+
- Overall A-
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
Your Grade
Do You Own This Accessory? Leave A Review
Success Your Grade Has Been
Added To Our Reader’s Score
We use email to verify the accuracy of our reviews. We promise to never spam you.
Sheffield 12629 Field Box Specs
- Material Plastic
- Seal Rubber gasket
- Weight 1.12 lbs
- Closure type Base-to-lid interlocking system
- Caliber Multi-caliber
Sheffield 12629 Field Box Review
The Sheffield 12629 Field Box is my pick for the best security because it has a great locking and sealing system which, when paired with its compact size, makes it a handy ammo storage container that you can safely carry around.
It has a base-to-lid interlocking system with three locking loops, including a sturdy metal one that isn’t easy to break, even with tools. This makes it difficult for someone to get away stealing your ammo without doing some serious damage. I do wish it came with its own padlocks though, because it would have been a lot easier than trying to find the right size.
The Sheffield Box also uses a compression fit lid sealed with a rubber gasket, making it very secure for a plastic container. The compression fitting with the rubber gasket seals the container perfectly, keeping the ammo safe from dust and moisture.
The Sheffield Box is a lightweight alternative to my heavy Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can, making it easier for me to carry. It has a nice handle that sits on top of the lid for easy carry and lays flat when I need to stack it. Like I mentioned before, the Sheffield Box is small, so it might not store a lot of large caliber cartridges. Howerver, it’s great for a one-day shooting trip as it has a great seal and reliable locks.
The Sheffield Box may not carry as much ammo as some of the other entries in this list, but the peace of mind knowing your ammo is secure and being able to transport it without any hassle are big selling points for me. If security is one of your major priorities and you’d prefer having compact storage, this storage container is a must-have.
Sheffield 12629 Field Box Pros and Cons
- Airtight
- Secure
- Stackable and portable
- Ergonomic carrying handle
- Not waterproof
- Too small for large caliber
Buyers guide
These ammo storage containers are some of the most effective storage options I’ve come across, but it’s important to look at the key features of a storage container to find one that meets your specific needs. Here are some factors to should consider if you plan to buy ammo storage containers:
- Material – Ammo storage containers are usually made of plastic, metal, or wood. Containers made of thick plastic are lightweight and portable, making them a good option for when you’re driving to the range or traveling to a hunting ground. Plastic ones are ideal if you want to save on costs as they are a lot more affordable than metal or wooden containers. Metal ammo storage containers are mainly made of steel, and they are both durable and strong. They can easily handle rough weather and come with airtight seals to lower the chances of your ammo stockpile corroding. Naturally, metal ammo containers are heavier than plastic ones, so they are ideal as a home storage, not a portable one. Even so, there are lightweight metal ammo containers suitable for carrying your rounds. Wooden ammo storage boxes are made with high-quality wood and they are good for storing heavy rounds like slugs long-term. However, they don’t often endure well against the elements and they are mostly used for decorative purposes rather than functional. Ideally, the right ammo storage container should be able to hold the weight of your ammo stock without straining and it should be well-sealed, stackable, and portable.
- Storage – Some ammo boxes hold .30 caliber and some are designed to hold up to .50 caliber, so consider the caliber you’re using when deciding on the storage space you need. The size of your stockpile is also important; you may not stock up a lot if you’re a hobby shooter, but if you are a serious hunter, you might have a big reserve of ammo. Consider getting a container at least 1 inch longer than the longest shell in your stock and half an inch wider than the widest. Most ammo storage boxes are pretty secure, so you can also store other small items you want to keep safe.
- Stackability – They design most ammo storage containers with ridges on the lid and base to help you stack them into columns. Stacking makes sure ammo boxes don’t slide over, especially during transportation, and helps you make the most of your storage space. Metal containers are often easy to store in a solid stack as they can withstand pressure.
- Resistance to weather – Protecting your ammo against air, moisture, and heat to prevent corrosion and loss of quality is one of the most important parts of storing them. Make sure to pick an ammo storage container made with water-resistant material and fitted with airtight seals. Consider choosing a plastic material that doesn’t conduct heat if there’s a chance of your stockpile getting exposed to excessive heat.
- Portability – Portability is important to consider if you travel with your shooting gear frequently. You can choose a lightweight ammo storage container with comfortable and durable handles if it’s a small trip, but if you need to pack a lot of ammunition, it’s best to get a large ammo box with wheels.
- Closure – Latches are a safe closing mechanism in ammo storage containers, but if you need more security, double padlock tabs are a good idea. Remember that easy accessibility to your ammo also matters, so look for a closing mechanism that’s secure plus opens without a hassle.
Once you get the ammo storage container (or containers!) that fits your needs, the next step is to correctly store your stock, as faulty storage can shorten the shelf life of your ammo.
How to correctly store your ammo
Preserving the shelf life of your ammo is important because ammo can get pretty expensive depending on the caliber, and the last thing you want is for it to rust away without you even using it. Here are some best practices to follow when storing your ammo to make the best use of them:
- Keep away from heat – Ammo holds up against heat unless the temperature is extreme (around 150°F) but it’s always wise to stick to the recommended temperature for storage, which is between 55-85°F for most ammunition types. Avoid storing your ammo in the trunk of your vehicle or in your attic, especially in the summer, for a long time as you might be exposing the stock to swinging temperatures. This is important because rapidly jumping from heat to cold and vice versa can damage the casing and reduce the shelf life of ammo. Additional tip: Make sure you get an ammo storage container that doesn’t allow any light in as exposure to UV rays can damage the contents.
- Keep ammo dry – Moisture can corrode the casings and bullets, so make sure your storage space is cool and dry. It’s also a good idea to choose an ammo storage container with airtight seals to prevent water or moisture from getting in. Storing ammo in a humid area is always tricky because the air itself is wet, so consider getting a few desiccant packs to absorb any moisture that gets in. Keeping your stockpile dry helps preserve the shelf life of your ammo, so it’s worth investing in well-sealed containers and desiccant packs.
- Label and rotate – It’s easy to lose track of your ammo when you store them without the packaging, especially if you have a large firearm collection. Try to label your ammo with their model and the date of expiry when you store them so you’ll easily know which rounds to take out. When you’ve emptied the batch in the front, bring the next batch forward in the container so you can use up the older ammo first and place new purchases at the back.
Storing your stock the right way is important, especially when a lot of us purchase ammo in bulk. Figure out the storage process that works for you and you’ll know how to protect your stockpile, so it lasts long into their shelf life.
Conclusion
Whether the stockpile of your favorite ammo is small or large, it needs protection from theft and the elements. The right ammo storage containers can help not only protect your ammo but also organize your stockpile and preserve the shelf life of your ammunition.
Ammo Storage Container FAQs
Plastic containers are a budget-friendly storage option to keep your ammo away from dust and moisture, but plastic isn’t very durable and can break under pressure. Metal containers are more durable, especially under pressure or in a fire, but they come at a higher price point and could rust. Whatever you choose, make sure it has a good seal to keep it air- and water-resistant.
Storing your ammo loose is a good way to pack more in your container. This especially works out if you live in a humid area, because ammo can get damaged when its packaging absorbs moisture. But on the other hand, the packaging makes it easy to keep track of the batch and how many you’ve used. A way to get around this is properly labeling your rounds when storing and rotating when you use a batch or buy new ammo.
Ammo doesn’t really expire or go bad if it’s stored well. Sure, there’s an expiry date on the packaging, but that’s more for legal reasons than safety. The date will usually be around 10 years from manufacturing, but if the conditions are ideal, your ammo could last longer. Just make sure you’re storing it in a cool, dry, and dark place with limited air exposure.
Bad ammo will have a damaged exterior. This could be dents, any sort of discoloration or corrosion on the outside, or even rust. If you see red or brown residue or a greenish-gray crust on the outside, your ammo’s gone bad and needs to be disposed of.
Yes, bad ammo can damage your gun. The round could jam on feeding or extraction, and if it’s rusty, it could cause friction on your gun’s loading surface and chamber. Friction is something you want to avoid, so always make sure to use good, well-polished ammo.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team
Recent Posts
November 28, 2023
November 28, 2023
November 28, 2023
November 28, 2023