Dating old shotgun shells

Can you still buy old shotgun shells?

It all depends on storage conditions. Even if your old shotgun ammunition doesn’t use paper hulls, the first brand of plastic shotgun shells commercially available in the United States was introduced by Peters Ammunition in 1960. As of today, it is still possible to find plastic shells that are over 50 years old.

Do Gun Ranges take old shells?

There are gun ranges that accept old shells to recycle or dispose of them effectively. Even if you can’t or don’t want to use ammunition, others would be willing to use them.

Can plastic shells be over 50 years old?

As of today, it is still possible to find plastic shells that are over 50 years old. Even if the shell is made of a durable material such as plastic or brass and is of the correct gauge and length for your shotgun, you should always inspect the shells for signs of degradation or damage, such as bulging, deformation, cracks, and other damage.

How to get rid of shotgun shells?

Take them to your local gun store or gun range. Apart from calling your local police, you may opt to reach out to your favorite gun store. Some gun owners may offer some help on how to dispose of your ammunition. Also, there’s a likelihood that they provide services regarding how to get rid of shotgun shells.

Can you still buy plastic shotgun shells?

Even if your old shotgun ammunition doesn’t use paper hulls, the first brand of plastic shotgun shells commercially available in the United States was introduced by Peters Ammunition in 1960. As of today, it is still possible to find plastic shells that are over 50 years old.

Do shotgun shells have an expiration date?

Quite often, shotgun shells have no specific expiration date. The fact is that no one knows the exact shelf-life for ammunition. It’s not a surprise to find Grandfather’s old ammo perfectly fine. The lifespan will depend on certain things that include; The shell life is relative.

What do you do with old shotgun shells?

If you have old shotgun shells that don’t fire reliably, consider giving them to a reloader to recycle the components. Or sell them to someone you don’t like. Lots of police departments will take unwanted ammunition for disposal, too.

Is it OK to keep old shotgun ammo?

I cheerfully accepted the windfall, as I know old shotgun ammunition also does well, regardless of age. Unless shotgun shells are kept at the bottom of Lake Michigan after an unfortunate boating accident, shotgun ammo tends to forgive owners who store them in less-than-ideal conditions.

Can you throw away shotgun shells?

The short answer is no, you can’t throw away shotgun shells. Whether they’re unused or spent shells, simply throwing them in the trash or dumping them on the ground will cause harmful side effects. Contact your local law enforcement, gun store, or gun range to find out the best disposal method in your area.

What is the best way to dispose of old shells?

The best way to dispose of old shells is to shoot them. Go to a gun range and simply put them out of their misery. This is only advisable for shells that are not damaged.

How do you unload a shotgun shell?

Unload the shell, decap it. Take a spent primer, carefully hammer the primer back into shape. Reload the shell. Requires a press that can load shotgun shells.

How do you remove the primer from a shotgun shell?

Pull the shotcup/wad and empty the powder charge. Brace the shell and put a long thin nail against the inside of the primer. Using a long sturdy plank of wood or something similar, and while wearing ear and eye protection, heavy gloves, and maybe a leather apron; bap the nail down into the primer to set it off.*