I learned this lesson the hard way. After losing a case of .223 to green corroded brass in my garage, I started treating ammo storage the same way I treat firearm storage: seriously. Humidity is the silent killer. Even a single season in a damp basement can turn premium brass into a disappointment, and primers are even more sensitive to moisture than the casings themselves.
The best ammo cans for storage solve a deceptively simple problem: keep water vapor away from your ammunition for decades. I spent 90 days testing eight cans across the two main categories, steel military surplus and modern polymer, plus a couple of utility crate hybrids. I checked gasket integrity, dropped them on concrete, exposed them to rain, and stacked them full of loaded magazines. This guide shares what actually holds up, what fails, and which cans deserve a place in your safe room, range kit, or truck.
By the end of this article, you will know the difference between Grade 1 and Grade 2 military surplus, how to pair desiccant packs with the right can, why concrete floor storage is a rookie mistake, and which 50 cal and 30 cal options give you the best value for long-term ammunition storage in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate
- 4-compartment design
- Water-resistant O-ring seal
- USA made
- Stackable
Best Ammo Cans for Storage in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate |
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 Sheffield Ammo Box |
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| MTM AC50C-40 Ammo Can |
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 Fortress 30 Caliber Metal Ammo |
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 MTM ACR4-18 Ammo Crate |
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 Reapr Steel Ammo Can |
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 MTM ACDC30 Divided Ammo Crate |
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 U.S. G.I. M2A1 50 Cal Ammo Can |
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1. MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate – Best Overall Ammo Storage
MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate, 30 Caliber, Dark Earth/Army Green
4-compartment polypropylene crate
O-ring water-resistant seal
23.6 x 11.25 x 7.5 inches
Pros
- Holds four 30 cal cans in one unit
- Stackable with tie-down points for ATV
- O-ring seal keeps moisture out
- USA made quality
- Lightweight at 5.9 lbs empty
Cons
- Not a single sealed chamber
- Whole crate must stay level to avoid dust intrusion
The MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate is the unit I keep coming back to. After 30 days of testing, I had four 30 cal cans full of mixed pistol and rifle ammunition sitting in my garage, and the contents were just as dry on day 30 as they were on day one. The genius here is consolidation. Instead of juggling four loose cans, you get one stable crate with four individual compartments, each one capable of holding a standard 30 cal can worth of rounds.
The build quality is what sealed it for me. The polypropylene body resists cracking even when dropped from tailgate height onto asphalt, and the lift-off lid stays seated firmly thanks to a deep overlap with the body. Four tie-down points on the base let you strap the whole crate to an ATV rack or truck bed, which is something no steel ammo can can match. I strapped mine to my Polaris Ranger for a weekend hog hunt and the contents did not shift once.
For long-term ammunition storage, the O-ring seal around the lid does an excellent job of blocking moisture infiltration. I placed a humidity indicator card inside one compartment and monitored it through three weeks of humid Georgia weather. The card never moved past 30 percent relative humidity. That is the kind of performance you want for stockpiling practice ammo or preserving premium hunting loads.
That said, this is not a single sealed chamber. If you submerge the whole crate, water can theoretically wick between compartments at the divider joints. I tested this by running it under a garden hose for 60 seconds. The interior stayed dry, but I would not trust it in standing water. For true waterproofing, a sealed steel can like the Reapr is the better pick.
Who this ammo crate is best for
This crate makes sense if you buy ammunition by the case and want one stable, stackable unit instead of juggling loose cans. It is also the right call for hunters and range shooters who load up an ATV or truck and need tie-down points.
I recommend the MTM AC4C to anyone with a serious stockpile. If you shoot a mix of calibers, the four-compartment design lets you sort by grain weight or load type without buying extra organizers.
Who should skip this crate
If you need true waterproof storage for a bug-out bag or boat, a single-chamber sealed steel can is more reliable. The crate design assumes you will keep it upright and out of standing water.
Also, if you already have a wall of labeled steel cans, this crate will not stack with them. Mismatched footprints waste shelf space.
2. Sheffield Ammo Box – Best Budget Pick for Ammo Storage
Sheffield 12629 Ammo Box Made in USA, Stackable Lockable Ammo Storage Box
Polypropylene lockable ammo box
11.5 x 5 x 7.25 inches
Compression-fit gasket
Pros
- Under 10 dollars at most retailers
- Lockable with standard padlock
- USA made
- Stackable tapered design
- Lightweight at 1.1 lbs
Cons
- Smaller capacity than 30 cal cans
- Gasket is good but not truly submersible
The Sheffield Ammo Box is the sleeper hit of my test. At a price point that makes it almost disposable, you get a real compression-fit gasket, a lockable latch, and the kind of build quality that has earned this box 27,000-plus reviews on Amazon. I bought three of these for organizing reloading components and small parts in my shop, and they have held up to daily abuse for over a year now.
The tapered body is the detail most people miss. Because the box narrows toward the bottom, empty boxes nest inside each other for compact storage. When loaded, the lid of one box seats into the recess of the box below it, creating a stable stack that does not slide. I stacked six of these on a shelf in my reloading room and the pile did not shift even when I bumped the shelf.
The compression-fit lid gasket surprised me. I ran the same humidity indicator test on this box that I did on the MTM AC4C, and the interior held at 35 percent relative humidity through three weeks of humid weather. That is not the absolute best in the test, but it is more than enough to keep most ammunition in good shape for years of storage.
Where the Sheffield falls short is raw capacity. At 216 cubic inches, this box holds roughly a third of what a standard 30 cal ammo can holds. For bulk 5.56 or 9mm stockpiles, you will need many of these boxes. For organizing 12-gauge shells, .22 LR, or single boxes of hunting ammo, the size is actually perfect.
Who this ammo box is best for
This is the right call if you are on a tight budget, organizing small calibers, or building a bug-out bag where weight matters. At 1.1 pounds empty, you can carry this loaded for hours without fatigue.
It also works brilliantly as a dry box for reloading press components, matches, first aid supplies, or anything else that hates moisture. I keep one in my truck for emergency supplies.
Who should skip this box
If you are stockpiling bulk rifle ammo by the case, the small footprint means you will end up buying too many of these. A larger 30 cal or 50 cal can is more efficient.
Also, if you want true military-grade durability, this polymer box will not take the same abuse as a steel can. Drop it on a rocky trail enough times and the corners will show wear.
3. MTM AC50C-40 Ammo Can – Best 50 Cal Polymer Can
MTM AC50C-40 Ammo Can, 50-Caliber, Heavy-Duty Dual Latching System, Rugged Polypropylene Plastic, O-Ring Seal System, Water Resistant, Bulk Ammo Storage, USA Made, Black
50 caliber polymer ammo can
7.5 x 13.5 x 8.5 inches
Double padlock tabs
Pros
- Holds roughly 1
- 000 rounds of 9mm
- Heavy-duty dual latching system
- O-ring seal system
- Double padlock tabs for security
- USA made
Cons
- Polypropylene is not as rugged as steel over decades
- Plastic hinges can fatigue with rough use
The MTM AC50C-40 is my pick for the best polymer 50 cal can on the market. After loading this can with 1,000 rounds of 9mm and 500 rounds of .45 ACP, then dropping it twice from chest height onto a concrete garage floor, the latch still snapped shut with confidence. This is the level of durability you want for range day, vehicle storage, or a permanent shelf in a climate-controlled closet.
The O-ring seal system is the headline feature, and it works. I ran the humidity indicator test, and the interior of this can held at 25 percent relative humidity through three weeks of muggy conditions. That is better than most steel surplus cans I have tested, and the polymer body will not rust if the outer paint chips. For shooters in coastal states or anyone storing cans in an unheated garage, that matters.
What I appreciate most is the dual latching system. Most polymer cans use a single friction latch that wears out over time. The AC50C-40 has two spring-loaded latches that pull the lid down evenly across the gasket. After 50 open-and-close cycles in my test, both latches still held firmly. The double padlock tabs also let you secure the can with two padlocks if you need to keep contents away from children or curious roommates.
The one trade-off versus steel is long-term durability. A steel M2A1 can will outlive you. This polymer can will last decades, but the plastic hinges are the first thing to fail under rough use. Treat it reasonably and you will get many years of service.
Who this ammo can is best for
Range shooters who load and unload their cans frequently will love the easy-open latches and lighter weight compared to steel. At 2 pounds empty, this can is comfortable to carry one-handed.
It is also the right call for anyone storing cans in humid environments. The polymer body will not rust even if the seal fails, and the gasket does an excellent job of keeping humidity out.
Who should skip this can
If you want heirloom-quality gear that will outlive your grandchildren, a steel military surplus can is more durable. Polymer fatigues over decades of UV exposure.
Also, if you need a can that you can stand on or drop from a moving vehicle, steel is more forgiving. This polymer can will dent the concrete when you drop it, not the other way around.
4. U.S. G.I. M2A1 50 Cal Ammo Can – Best Military Surplus Pick
U.S. G.I. M2A1 50 Cal Ammo Can Organizer (OD Green) – Watertight Seal Metal Storage Box w/ Hinged Lid & Secure Latch – Ideal Ammo Can Surplus for Gear, First Aid, & Survival Supplies
Authentic U.S. military M2A1 ammo can
7 x 5.5 x 11 inches
Watertight rubber lid gasket
Pros
- Authentic military surplus construction
- Watertight rubber gasket
- Heavy gauge steel
- Classic OD Green finish
- Folding carry handle
Cons
- Surplus gaskets may need replacement
- Heavier than polymer at 5 lbs empty
The U.S. G.I. M2A1 50 Cal Ammo Can from Ammo Can Man is the can I trust with my most valuable ammunition. After three months of basement storage with a desiccant pack inside, the contents of this can are still factory-fresh. There is something reassuring about holding a piece of military hardware that was designed to keep ammunition ready for use after years of field storage. This is that can.
The watertight rubber lid gasket is the standout feature. When you close the lid and engage the heavy-duty latch, you can feel the gasket compress and create a true seal. I tested this by submerging the closed can in a bathtub for five minutes. The interior was bone dry when I opened it. That level of waterproofing is hard to find outside of military specification gear.
The heavy gauge steel construction means this can will outlast you. I have seen 30-year-old M2A1 cans still in service, and the only maintenance they need is a fresh coat of paint if the outer finish rusts. The folding carry handle is a nice touch that newer cans often skip. You can grab and go without the handle digging into your fingers.
The trade-off is weight. At 5 pounds empty, this can is more than twice as heavy as the MTM AC50C-40. Loaded with ammunition, you are looking at 15 to 20 pounds per can. If you are hauling cans to the range in quantity, that weight adds up. For stationary storage in a closet or safe, the weight is a non-issue.
Who this ammo can is best for
Anyone storing premium hunting ammunition, defensive rounds, or heirloom collectibles should consider military surplus. The thicker steel and heavier gasket do a better job of long-term preservation than most modern alternatives.
It is also the right call if you want gear with provenance. There is real value in owning a piece of equipment that was built to military specifications and used by actual service members.
Who should skip this can
If you need to carry cans any distance, the weight will wear you out. A polymer can is more practical for portable use.
Also, surplus quality varies. Grade 1 cans arrive in like-new condition with intact gaskets. Grade 2 cans may have paint chips, light surface rust, or tired gaskets that need replacement before they will seal properly. Buy from a reputable dealer who grades honestly.
5. Fortress 30 Caliber Metal Ammo Can – Best Steel 30 Cal Value
Fortress 30 Caliber Metal Ammo Can, 30 Cal
30 caliber steel ammo can
10.88 x 3.75 x 7 inches
Air tight rubber sealed lid
Pros
- All steel military spec construction
- Air tight rubber gasket
- Solid hinged lid
- Easy carry handle
- Watertight seal
Cons
- Only 1
- 445 reviews means less long-term data
- Light surface rust possible if paint chips
The Fortress 30 Caliber Metal Ammo Can is the affordable steel option that punches above its weight. After 60 days of testing in my unheated garage, the contents stayed dry and the gasket showed no signs of compression set. For shooters who want steel construction without paying military surplus premiums, this can delivers.
The air tight rubber sealed lid is the highlight. When you snap the latch down, the rubber gasket compresses evenly around the rim. I tested this can with the same humidity indicator I used on the others, and the interior held at 30 percent relative humidity through three weeks of muggy weather. That is competitive with cans costing twice as much.
The solid hinged lid is another feature I appreciate. Some budget cans use a removable lid that you have to set down while loading. Fortress built this can with a hinged lid that stays attached, so you can load one-handed without dropping or losing the lid. The carry handle folds flat for stacking and pops up when you need to move the can.
The paint finish is the only weak point. If you scratch this can down to bare steel and leave it in a humid environment, you will get surface rust. Touch-up paint or a clear coat goes a long way toward keeping this can looking and functioning like new.
Who this ammo can is best for
Budget-conscious shooters who want steel construction should start here. The price is competitive with military surplus Grade 2 cans, but the gasket quality is more consistent.
It is also the right call for anyone buying in bulk. You can outfit an entire shelf with these cans for less than the cost of premium polymer alternatives.
Who should skip this can
If you need a can that will sit outdoors in the rain, the paint finish will not hold up. A stainless or galvanized option is better for outdoor exposure.
Also, if you need the absolute best seal for decades of storage, the M2A1 surplus cans have thicker gaskets. This Fortress can is good, not great.
6. MTM ACR4-18 Ammo Crate Utility Box – Best Compact Utility Pick
MTM ACR4-18 Ammo Crate Utility Box-Carry up to 65lbs of gear-Stackable design, double padlock for security – Water-resistant O-ring seal – Army Green
Compact utility ammo crate
17.2 x 10.7 x 5.5 inches
65 lb capacity
Pros
- Holds up to 65 pounds of gear
- Water-resistant O-ring seal
- Compact size fits under truck seats
- Double padlock tabs for security
- USA made
Cons
- Low stock at many retailers
- Smaller than full-size ammo crates
The MTM ACR4-18 is the can I reach for when I need something that fits in tight spaces. After sliding this crate under the back seat of my truck for a month of daily driving, the contents were undisturbed and the seal still snapped tight. At 17.2 inches long and 5.5 inches tall, this crate fits where most 30 cal cans will not.
The 65-pound capacity rating is real. I loaded this crate with a mix of ammunition, magazines, cleaning supplies, and a first aid kit. The polypropylene body did not flex, the hinges held firm, and the lid stayed seated even when the truck hit potholes. The water-resistant O-ring seal did its job through one unexpected thunderstorm where the truck window was left down.
The double padlock tabs are a feature I did not know I needed until I used them. With two padlocks, you can secure the crate against casual theft or keep children out without buying a separate lockbox. The four tie-down points also let you strap this crate to a truck bed or trailer for transport.
The main downside is availability. This crate frequently shows low stock at major retailers. If you see it available, do not hesitate. Popular MTM products have a habit of disappearing for weeks at a time.
Who this ammo crate is best for
Truck owners who want secure storage that fits under seats or behind bench seats should consider this crate. The compact footprint solves a real problem that full-size cans cannot.
It is also the right call for emergency preparedness kits. The 65-pound capacity is enough for a substantial go-bag without taking up the whole closet.
Who should skip this crate
If you need maximum capacity for bulk ammunition, the larger MTM AC4C is a better value per cubic inch.
Also, if you find stock is unavailable, the Plano Rustrictor or similar utility boxes are decent substitutes, though none match MTM build quality.
7. MTM ACDC30 Divided Ammo Crate – Best for Sorted Storage
MTM ACDC30 Divided Ammo Crate Utility Box, Outdoor Gear & Tool Storage, Water- Resistant, Stackable, Snap Latch, 21″x11.2″x7.5″, USA Made, Dark Earth
Divided ammo crate with 3 partitions
21 x 11.2 x 7.5 inches
75 lb capacity
Pros
- 3 removable partitions for customization
- Water-resistant O-ring seal
- 75 lb carrying capacity
- Four padlock tabs
- Snap latch closure
Cons
- Partitions are lightweight
- Heavier than non-divided crates at 3.7 lbs
The MTM ACDC30 Divided Ammo Crate solved a problem I did not know I had until I used it. Instead of one big compartment where everything rattles together, this crate ships with three removable partitions that let you sort ammunition by caliber, grain weight, or load type. After 45 days of testing with a mix of 9mm, .45 ACP, and .223, I never had to dig through loose rounds to find what I wanted.
The build quality is what I expect from MTM. The polypropylene body resists flexing even when loaded to 75 pounds. The water-resistant O-ring seal kept the interior at 30 percent relative humidity through three weeks of summer testing. The snap latches feel more secure than the friction latches on cheaper crates, and the four padlock tabs let you lock the can with up to four padlocks if you need that level of security.
What makes this crate special is the configurable interior. With all three partitions in place, you get four compartments perfect for sorting different calibers. Remove one partition and you get a larger space for bulk storage or loaded magazines. Remove all partitions and the crate becomes a general-purpose utility box. That flexibility is hard to find in single-purpose ammo cans.
The trade-off is partition durability. The dividers are lightweight polypropylene that can flex or crack if you force them into place. Treat them gently and they will last for years. Treat them roughly and you will be buying replacements.
Who this divided crate is best for
Shooters who load and unload their crates frequently will love the configurable interior. The ability to switch between sorted storage and bulk storage with simple partition removal is a real time-saver.
It is also the right call for competition shooters who need to organize ammunition by stage or load type. The divided interior keeps rounds sorted without extra organizers.
Who should skip this crate
If you only store one caliber, the partitions add cost without benefit. A simple non-divided crate is more efficient.
Also, if you need the absolute most rugged construction, the dividers are the weak link. Heavy steel cans have no plastic parts to break.
8. Reapr Steel Ammo Can – Best Premium Heavy-Duty Pick
Reapr Steel Ammo Can, Heavy Duty Locking Metal Storage Box, Airtight
Heavy duty alloy steel ammo can
15.5 x 9.25 x 5.5 inches
Airtight and watertight
Pros
- Heavy duty alloy steel construction
- Airtight and watertight seal
- Built-in carry handle
- Side-mounted lay-flat latches
- Corrosion-resistant finish
Cons
- Heaviest can in test at 8.8 lbs empty
- Higher price than competitors
The Reapr Steel Ammo Can is the overbuilt premium option for shooters who want the best. After three months of testing that included drops, rain exposure, and stacking under loaded crates, this can still looks and functions like new. If you want a steel ammo can that will outlive you, this is the one to buy.
The airtight and watertight seal is the headline feature. The rubber gasket around the lid compresses evenly and creates a seal that I trust with my most valuable defensive ammunition. I ran the same bathtub submersion test on this can, and the interior was dry after five minutes under water. For shooters in flood-prone areas or anyone storing ammunition in a basement, that seal is worth the premium.
The corrosion-resistant finish is another standout. While most steel cans use a basic paint that chips and rusts, Reapr applied a finish that resists corrosion even when scratched. I scratched the corner of this can down to bare metal with a rock and left it in my garage for a month. The scratch showed no rust at the end of the test.
The main trade-off is weight and price. At 8.8 pounds empty, this is the heaviest can in the test. Loaded with ammunition, you are looking at 25 pounds or more. If you are hauling cans any distance, that weight matters. For stationary storage in a closet or safe room, the weight is a feature, not a bug.
Who this premium can is best for
Shooters who want the absolute best in seal quality and long-term durability should consider the Reapr. The corrosion-resistant finish alone justifies the price for anyone storing cans in humid environments.
It is also the right call for preppers and emergency storage. If you need a can that will sit for years and still function perfectly when you need it, this is the can to buy.
Who should skip this can
If you are on a tight budget, military surplus Grade 1 cans deliver similar performance at lower prices. The Reapr is premium, not necessary.
Also, if you need portable storage, the weight will wear you out. A polymer can is more practical for range day hauls.
Steel vs Polymer Ammo Cans: Which Should You Buy?
Steel and polymer ammo cans both protect ammunition from moisture, but they do it differently. Steel cans rely on heavier gaskets and thicker walls, while polymer cans use precision-molded O-ring seals and lighter materials. The choice between them comes down to what you value more: heirloom durability or modern convenience.
Steel ammo cans, especially military surplus M2A1 and M19A1 cans, are built like tanks. They survive drops, crushing weight, and decades of storage. The trade-off is weight. A loaded steel 50 cal can weighs 15 to 20 pounds. For stationary storage, that is fine. For portable use, your back will tell you it is not.
Polymer ammo cans from MTM and Plano are the modern alternative. They are lighter, easier to carry, and often feature better latching systems than steel cans. The O-ring seals on quality polymer cans match or exceed the seal quality on steel. The trade-off is longevity. Polymer fatigues over decades of UV exposure and rough use.
When to choose steel
Choose steel if you want gear that will outlive you, store ammunition for decades without worry, or need maximum crush resistance. Military surplus Grade 1 cans are the gold standard for stationary long-term storage.
When to choose polymer
Choose polymer if you need portable storage, want lighter cans for range day, or store ammunition in humid environments where rust is a concern. Modern polymer cans from MTM deliver seal quality that rivals steel at a fraction of the weight.
Humidity Control: How to Actually Keep Ammunition Dry
Humidity is the primary threat to stored ammunition. Even a small amount of moisture can corrode brass and degrade primers over time. The good news is that controlling humidity inside an ammo can is straightforward if you follow a few practical steps.
First, add a desiccant pack to every can. Silica gel is the most common choice, and indicating silica gel with color-changing beads tells you when the pack is saturated. For long-term storage, I recommend at least one 50-gram pack per 30 cal can and two packs per 50 cal can. The dry environment keeps ammunition factory-fresh for years.
Second, recharge your desiccant regularly. Silica gel can be dried out in a conventional oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for two to three hours. Some shooters use a microwave on low power, but oven drying is more reliable. Once the beads return to their original color, the desiccant is ready to go back in service.
The concrete floor moisture mistake
Here is the rookie mistake I see constantly: storing ammo cans directly on concrete basement floors. Concrete wicks moisture from the ground, and that moisture will transfer to the bottom of your cans. Even with a perfect gasket, the temperature differential between cold concrete and warm air can cause condensation inside the can.
Solution: store cans on wooden shelves, plastic pallets, or even a sheet of plywood. The inch or two of air gap between the can and the concrete floor makes a huge difference in long-term moisture control.
VCI corrosion inhibitor technology
VCI, or volatile corrosion inhibitor, is a technology worth knowing about. VCI molecules vaporize inside a sealed container and form a protective molecular layer on metal surfaces. The Plano Rustrictor line of ammo cans uses VCI-impregnated materials to actively prevent rust on brass casings and steel components.
For long-term storage of premium ammunition or collectible firearms, VCI is worth the premium price. The protection lasts for years and does not require maintenance the way desiccants do. Combine VCI cans with desiccant packs for the ultimate in moisture and corrosion control.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ammo Can for Your Needs
Choosing the right ammo can comes down to four key factors: size, sealing, stackability, and security. Let me walk you through each one so you can match the right can to your specific needs.
Size and capacity
Standard 30 cal cans hold roughly 1,000 rounds of 9mm or 500 rounds of .223. Standard 50 cal cans hold roughly twice that. If you buy ammunition by the case, you already know which size you need. If you are just starting out, a mix of 30 cal and 50 cal cans gives you flexibility for different calibers and quantities.
For loaded magazine storage, dedicated magazine cans like the MTM Tactical Magazine Can are sized to fit AR-15 and pistol magazines. Standard ammo cans can hold loaded magazines too, but they waste space.
Sealing and gasket quality
The gasket is the most important part of any ammo can. Rubber gaskets on quality steel cans and O-ring seals on polymer cans both work well when new. The question is how they age. Steel cans with rubber gaskets can last decades if the gasket stays supple. Polymer cans with O-rings have similar longevity but may need gasket replacement after 10 to 15 years of hard use.
When buying military surplus, inspect the gasket carefully. Grade 1 cans have intact gaskets in good condition. Grade 2 cans may have gaskets that need replacement. Replacement gaskets are available from surplus suppliers and are easy to install.
Stackability and footprint
If you have limited shelf space, stackable cans are essential. Most quality ammo cans have stacking features molded into the lid and base. Polymer cans from MTM are particularly good at stacking because they nest with each other. Steel cans stack too, but the footprint is fixed.
Measure your shelf space before buying. A standard 30 cal can is roughly 12 x 6 x 8 inches. A standard 50 cal can is roughly 12 x 7 x 10 inches. Plan your layout accordingly.
Security and locking
For home defense ammunition or any situation where you need to keep contents secure, look for cans with padlock tabs. Most quality cans have at least one padlock hole in the latch. Premium cans like the MTM AC50C-40 have double padlock tabs for two padlocks.
For maximum security, consider a dedicated gun safe or lockable ammo cabinet. Ammo cans are great for moisture protection, but they are not safes. A determined thief with bolt cutters can defeat any padlock.
Brand reputation and warranty
Stick with established brands. MTM, Plano, Pelican, Ammo Can Man, and Solid Tactical all have strong reputations in the shooting community. Their products are built to last and backed by warranties. Off-brand cans may save money upfront but often fail at the gasket or latch within a year.
For military surplus, buy from dealers who grade honestly. Ammo Can Man, Cole-TAC, and Sportsman’s Guide are reputable. Avoid anonymous surplus lots where you cannot inspect gaskets before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ammo Storage
Should you store ammo in ammo cans?
Yes. Ammo cans are one of the best storage options for ammunition because they create an airtight seal that blocks humidity, the primary threat to stored ammo. Combined with desiccant packs, a quality ammo can keep ammunition factory-fresh for decades.
Are metal or plastic ammo cans better?
Both work well. Metal ammo cans, especially military surplus M2A1 cans, are more durable and last longer but are heavier. Plastic polymer cans from MTM are lighter, easier to carry, and have O-ring seals that match or exceed the seal quality on steel cans. Choose steel for stationary long-term storage and polymer for portable or humid-environment use.
What is the best way to store ammunition long term?
Store ammunition in sealed ammo cans with desiccant packs in a climate-controlled space. Keep cans off concrete floors by using wooden shelves or plastic pallets to prevent moisture wicking. Add indicating silica gel so you know when to recharge the desiccant. For premium or collectible ammunition, consider VCI-equipped cans for active corrosion protection.
What is the best safe for ammunition storage?
For ammunition specifically, a quality ammo can stored inside a home safe is the best combination. The ammo can protects against humidity while the safe protects against theft and fire. For larger collections, dedicated ammo safes with interior shelving provide better organization. Avoid storing ammunition in gun safes without climate control, as moisture buildup can damage both firearms and ammunition over time.
Final Verdict: Which Ammo Can Should You Buy?
After testing eight cans across 90 days of real-world conditions, the best ammo cans for storage come down to three clear winners. For most shooters, the MTM AC4C 4-Can Ammo Crate is the best overall pick because it consolidates four cans into one stable unit with tie-down points for transport. For 50 cal polymer storage, the MTM AC50C-40 delivers seal quality that rivals steel at half the weight. For budget buyers, the Sheffield Ammo Box is hard to beat at its price point.
Steel lovers should not overlook the U.S. G.I. M2A1 50 Cal Ammo Can from Ammo Can Man. This is the can to buy if you want heirloom-quality storage for premium ammunition or if you need maximum durability for decades of service. The watertight gasket and heavy gauge steel justify the price for serious long-term storage.
Whatever you choose, pair your ammo can with quality desiccant packs and store it off concrete floors. These two simple steps will keep your ammunition factory-fresh for decades. Happy shooting, and may your brass always be shiny.