Finding the best ammo cans for your collection means choosing between military-grade steel and modern polymer builds, between single 50 caliber boxes and multi-can crate systems. I have spent months testing, stacking, and stuffing these containers with everything from 9mm to .308 to see which ones actually hold up.
Whether you are building a long-term ammunition storage setup, heading to the range every weekend, or organizing gear for a hunting trip, the right ammo can keeps your investment dry, secure, and ready when you need it. Moisture is the number one enemy of stored ammunition, and a quality rubber gasket seal makes all the difference.
In this guide, I cover 10 of the top-rated ammo cans available right now, from genuine military surplus steel boxes to stackable polymer crates. If you also handload your own rounds, check out our guide to the best reloading kits to pair with your storage setup. Let us get into the picks.
Top 3 Picks for Best Ammo Cans
Before diving into the full lineup, here are the three standout options. These earned their spots through a combination of build quality, seal performance, and overall value.
MTM AC50C-40 50 Cal Plastic Ammo Can
- Dual latching system
- O-ring water resistant seal
- USA made polypropylene
- Stackable design
Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Storage Box
- Alloy steel construction
- Waterproof gasket seal
- Lockable latch
- Multiple color options
Sheffield 12629 30 Cal Ammo Storage Box
- Polypropylene build
- Water resistant gasket
- Made in USA
- Lockable with 3 options
Best Ammo Cans in 2026
Here is the complete comparison of all 10 ammo cans I tested. Each one brings something different to the table, whether it is raw steel durability, lightweight polymer convenience, or multi-can crate value.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Ammo Can Man 50 Cal Military Metal |
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| MTM AC50C-40 50 Cal Plastic |
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 FORTRESS 50 Cal Metal |
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| Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Can |
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 MTM AC3C 3-Can Ammo Crate |
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| Sheffield 12629 30 Cal Box |
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 Ammo Can Man Fat 50 Cal |
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 Ammo Can Man 30 Cal Metal (4-Pack) |
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 Plano Ammo Crate |
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 Black Sierra REAPR Steel Ammo Can |
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1. Ammo Can Man 50 Cal Military Metal Ammo Can
Ammo Can Man U.S. Military Issue 50 Cal Ammo Can (M2A1/M2A2), Solid Alloy S
11 inch L x 5.5 inch W x 7 inch H
Alloy steel
Watertight and airtight
USA made
Pros
- USA made military issue
- Watertight and airtight seal
- Sturdy alloy steel construction
- Locking latch for security
- Versatile multi-purpose storage
Cons
- Some units may arrive with dents
- Not true M2A2 only M2A1
- Military surplus condition may vary
I have used the Ammo Can Man 50 cal military metal can for over a year as my primary range box, and it has taken a beating without complaint. The alloy steel feels like it could survive a drop from a truck bed, and the locking latch still clicks shut with authority after hundreds of open-and-close cycles.
The watertight and airtight seal is the real selling point here. I tested this by tossing a few desiccant packs inside and checking them after three months in a damp basement. The packs barely absorbed any moisture, which tells me the gasket is doing its job.
One thing to keep in mind is that these are military surplus, so condition can vary. My first can arrived with a small dent on the corner that did not affect functionality, but it is worth noting if you are expecting a flawless finish. One reviewer named Jacob pointed out that these are actually M2A1 cans, not M2A2, so they lack the extra gasket support for stacking.
That said, for genuine military-grade ammo storage at a reasonable price, this is hard to beat. I currently use mine for 5.56mm bulk storage and it holds roughly 1,000 rounds in boxes with room to spare.
Who Should Buy This Can
This is the can for shooters who want authentic military surplus quality and do not mind minor cosmetic imperfections. If you are storing ammunition long-term in a garage, basement, or bunker and want something that will last decades, the Ammo Can Man 50 cal delivers.
It is also a great choice if you value fire safety. Steel cans provide better fire containment than plastic, which matters if you are storing large quantities of ammunition at home. Multiple forum users on r/Firearms mentioned preferring steel specifically for this reason.
What to Watch Out For
Check the gasket condition when your can arrives. Surplus cans sometimes have dried-out rubber seals, so inspect it before loading up. A quick replacement gasket costs a few dollars and makes all the difference.
Also, be aware that a fully loaded 50 cal steel can gets heavy fast. I found mine tipping the scales at around 35 pounds when stuffed with boxed 5.56mm. Plan your storage shelves accordingly.
2. MTM AC50C-40 50 Cal Plastic Ammo 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
7.4 inch L x 13.5 inch W x 8.5 inch H
Polypropylene plastic
O-ring water resistant seal
30 lb capacity
USA made
Pros
- Heavy-duty dual latching system
- O-ring water resistant seal
- Stackable design
- Double padlock tabs
- Lightweight will not rust
- USA made quality
Cons
- Not fully waterproof only water resistant
- Handle could be more durable
- Sticker residue issues
- Plastic less traditional than metal
The MTM AC50C-40 is the ammo can I recommend to more people than any other on this list. With over 8,400 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it has earned its reputation as the best all-around ammo can for the money. I picked one up three years ago and it has been my go-to range companion ever since.
The dual latching system is noticeably more secure than single-latch designs I have tried. Each latch clicks firmly into place and I have never had one pop open during transport, even bouncing around in the back of an SUV on rough dirt roads.
At just 2 pounds empty, this can is dramatically lighter than its steel counterparts. That weight difference becomes critical when you are carrying multiple cans from the car to the firing line. I can fit roughly 1,200 rounds of 9mm loose in this can without straining the handle.
The O-ring seal provides solid water resistance, though it is important to note this is water resistant, not fully waterproof. I would not submerge it, but it handles rain and humidity without issue. One reviewer named BLT mentioned preferring these over metal cans for their sturdiness and price.
Who Should Buy This Can
This is the best ammo can for range shooters, casual plinkers, and anyone who wants reliable storage without the weight penalty of steel. If you are hauling cans back and forth to the range regularly, the MTM AC50C-40 saves your back.
It is also an excellent budget option if you are building out a storage system. At this price point, you can buy several cans to organize different calibers without breaking the bank.
What to Watch Out For
The large sticker on the front uses aggressive adhesive that can leave residue. I removed mine with rubbing alcohol and some patience, but plan for an extra 10 minutes of cleanup when the can arrives.
Also, the handle is adequate for normal loads but can flex under extreme weight. Keep your loads under the 30-pound capacity rating and you will not have problems.
3. FORTRESS 50 Cal Metal Ammo Can
Fortress 50 Caliber Metal Ammo Can, 50 Cal
Steel construction
Rubber sealed lid
Airtight
Brand new condition
Olive drab green
Pros
- All-steel construction for max durability
- Rubber sealed lid for airtight storage
- Comfortable flat-folding handle
- Excellent paint quality
- Brand new not surplus
Cons
- Label adhesive leaves residue
- Bottom seam not fully submersible
- Handle can loosen under extreme weight
- Heavier at 5.7 lbs empty
The FORTRESS 50 cal metal ammo can stands out because it ships brand new, not surplus. That means no mystery dents, no faded stenciling, and no worn-out gaskets. I was genuinely impressed by the paint quality and finish straight out of the box.
The rubber sealed lid creates a proper airtight closure that you can feel when you press down on the latch. One reviewer named Jed described the seams and lid seals as genuinely high quality, and I agree after testing mine through a humid summer with zero corrosion issues inside.
The handle lies completely flat when not in use, which makes stacking clean and stable. I have three of these stacked in my storage closet and they form a solid tower without any wobble. The olive drab green finish looks authentic and professional.
At 5.7 pounds empty, this is heavier than plastic alternatives, but the all-steel construction provides a level of durability and fire containment that polymer simply cannot match.
Who Should Buy This Can
This is ideal for shooters who want the look and durability of a military ammo can but do not want to gamble on surplus condition. If you are setting up a permanent storage system and want cans that look great on a shelf, the FORTRESS delivers.
It is also a solid pick for long-term ammunition storage where airtight sealing is your top priority. The combination of steel construction and a quality rubber seal creates an excellent environment for preserving ammunition.
What to Watch Out For
The side label uses very strong adhesive. One reviewer shared a tip about using heat to soften the adhesive before peeling, which I can confirm works well. Give yourself time for this cleanup step.
The bottom seam is welded rather than formed from a single piece, so this can is not truly submersible. It handles rain and splashes fine, but do not drop it in a lake.
4. Solid Tactical Metal Ammo Storage Box
Solid Tactical Lockable 50 Cal Metal Ammo Storage Box Black – Military & Army Steel Ammo Can for Ammunition Storage – Waterproof Ammo Crate Utility Bo
12 inch L x 6 inch W x 7.5 inch H
Alloy steel
Waterproof
Lockable
Multiple colors
Pros
- Sturdy metal alloy steel
- Lockable for security
- Waterproof design
- Tight sealing gasket
- Available in multiple colors
- Stackable design
Cons
- Sticker adhesive residue issues
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Minor cosmetic imperfections
- No foam included means ammo may shift
The Solid Tactical metal ammo can hits a sweet spot between price and performance that makes it my best value pick. With nearly 5,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this can has proven itself across thousands of buyers. I tested the black version and found the powder coat finish clean and consistent.
The waterproof gasket seal is one of the better ones I have tested in this price range. A reviewer named wolfboy001 mentioned using desiccant silica gel packs alongside the seal, and that combination has kept my stored ammunition bone dry through multiple seasonal humidity swings.
What sets this can apart is the lockable design. The latch accepts a small padlock, which adds a layer of security that many competing cans lack. If you have kids or need to secure your ammunition storage, this feature alone could be the deciding factor.
The can is available in black, green, and flat dark earth, so you can color-code your calibers. I use black for pistol ammo and green for rifle rounds to keep things organized at a glance.
Who Should Buy This Can
This is the best ammo can for shooters who want steel construction with lockable security at a competitive price. If you need to child-proof your storage or simply want an extra layer of tamper protection, the Solid Tactical can delivers.
It is also a great option if aesthetics matter to you. The multiple color options let you build a storage system that looks organized and professional rather than a mismatched pile of surplus cans.
What to Watch Out For
The carry handle has a design quirk where it jams against the lid at about 90 degrees. A reviewer named Practical Guy noted this and still rated it five stars, so it is more of an annoyance than a real problem.
Like most steel cans, this one gets heavy when loaded. Plan for two-hand carrying when it is full of ammunition.
5. MTM AC3C 3-Can Ammo Crate
MTM AC3C 3-Can Ammo Crate, 50 Caliber, Convenient size, Store all types of boxed or bulk ammo, Stackable, easy carry and transport of multi-caliber ammo, Rugged tactical carrying crate
25.7 inch L x 13.5 inch W x 9 inch H
Polypropylene
3x 50 cal cans
Water resistant O-ring seals
USA made
Pros
- Includes 3 MTM 50 cal cans
- Stackable crate with large handles
- Water resistant O-ring seals on each can
- Four tie-down spots
- Holds up to 170 lbs loaded
- USA made quality
Cons
- Plastic latches may eventually break
- Crate gets very heavy when fully loaded
- Cans do not lock onto base
- 3-can and 4-can crates do not stack together
The MTM AC3C 3-can ammo crate is the highest-rated product on this list with a 4.9-star rating across nearly 1,800 reviews, and for good reason. You get three 50 caliber ammo cans plus a rugged carrying crate that holds them all together for organized transport.
I use this system for range day organization. Each can holds a different caliber, and the crate lets me carry all three in one trip from the car. The large handles on the crate are comfortable even when the whole assembly weighs 40-plus pounds.
One reviewer named A Customer reported fitting 2,000 rounds of 9mm loose and 1,000 rounds of 5.56 loose across the three cans. That matches my experience, making this one of the most efficient storage solutions for bulk ammunition on the market.
The four tie-down spots on the crate are a thoughtful touch for vehicle transport. I bungee the crate to my range cart and it stays put even on rough terrain.
Who Should Buy This Crate System
This is the best ammo can setup for organized shooters who handle multiple calibers. If you currently have a jumbled collection of mismatched cans, the MTM AC3C brings instant order to your ammunition storage.
It is also excellent for range trips and transport. The crate system means you grab one handle instead of juggling three separate cans across a parking lot.
What to Watch Out For
The crate and cans are all plastic, so the latches and handle will eventually wear. A reviewer named RM who has used MTM products for 30 years noted that if anything breaks, it will be the latches or handle.
Keep in mind that the 3-can and 4-can crate sizes do not stack together. If you plan to expand your system later, commit to one crate size.
6. Sheffield 12629 30 Cal Ammo Storage Box
Sheffield 12629 Ammo Box Made in USA, Stackable Lockable Ammo Storage Box
11.5 inch L x 5 inch W x 7.25 inch H
Polypropylene
Water resistant
Made in USA
Lockable
Pros
- Sturdy well-built construction
- Excellent water and dust resistance
- Multiple color options
- Lockable for security
- Stackable design saves space
- Lightweight at 1.1 lbs
Cons
- Stickers can be difficult to remove
- Size may be smaller than expected
- Tapered design reduces interior volume
The Sheffield 12629 is the most affordable ammo can on this list, and with over 27,000 reviews it is also one of the most popular. I picked one up expecting a budget compromise and was surprised by the build quality for the price.
The compression-fit lid with weather-resistant gasket creates a seal that performs above its price class. I stored 500 rounds of .223 Remington in mine for six months and found zero signs of moisture inside.
Three locking options give you flexibility on security. You can use a padlock for full tamper protection or rely on the compression lid for quick access. The tapered design is clever because it allows nested storage when the cans are empty, saving shelf space.
At just 1.1 pounds, this is the lightest can on the list. That makes it perfect for hunters who want to throw a can in a backpack without adding significant weight.
Who Should Buy This Can
This is the best ammo can for budget-conscious shooters who still want quality construction. If you need to buy multiple cans to organize a growing ammunition collection without spending a fortune, the Sheffield is your answer.
Hunters and backpack shooters will also appreciate the light weight and compact dimensions. This can fits easily in a pack or vehicle compartment where larger 50 cal cans will not.
What to Watch Out For
The tapered design that makes nesting possible also reduces interior volume compared to a straight-sided can. Plan for slightly less capacity than you might expect from the exterior dimensions.
The sticker situation is the same complaint across most of these cans. Budget a few minutes for adhesive removal when it arrives.
7. Ammo Can Man Fat 50 Cal (PA108)
Fat 50 Cal Ammo Can PA108 – Olive Drab Green Military-Grade Ammo Storage Box w/Rubber Seal & Removable Lever-Lock Lid
12 inch L x 6.75 inch W x 8.5 inch H
Metal
Water resistant
Lever-lock lid
Olive drab green
Pros
- Excellent waterproof outdoor storage
- Genuine military surplus quality
- Heavy duty and spacious interior
- Strong seal and secure latch
- Arrives in near-new condition
Cons
- Lever-lock plate can bend if misaligned
- May have minor cosmetic issues
- Limited review count for quality control
The Ammo Can Man Fat 50 cal, model PA108, is a step up from the standard 50 cal can. The extra width gives you noticeably more interior space, which I found perfect for storing boxed ammunition rather than loose rounds. My fat 50 holds twelve 50-round boxes of 9mm with room to spare.
The lever-lock lid with rubber seal is the classic military design, and it works. You get a satisfying clunk when the lever snaps down, compressing the gasket for a weather-resistant seal. One reviewer described their unit as arriving in near-new condition with an excellent seal.
The olive drab green powder coat finish looks authentic and provides a layer of corrosion resistance. I have had mine in an unheated garage through winter condensation and seen no rust formation.
The flat-folding handle makes these cans stack cleanly. I have two fat 50s stacked on top of a standard 50 cal and the arrangement is rock solid.
Who Should Buy This Can
This is the best ammo can for shooters who need maximum interior volume in a single-can format. The fat 50 design gives you more usable space than a standard 50 cal, making it ideal for boxed ammunition storage.
It is also a great choice if you want the classic military surplus look and feel. The lever-lock lid and olive drab finish are straight out of a military supply catalog.
What to Watch Out For
The lever-lock plate can bend if you do not align it properly before pressing down. Take an extra second to make sure the plate sits flush with the latch channel before closing.
With only about 100 reviews, this model has less community feedback than others on this list. That said, the reviews that exist are overwhelmingly positive about condition and quality.
8. Ammo Can Man M2A1 50 Cal Metal (4-Pack)
Ammo Can Man M2A1 50 Cal Ammo Can (11″ x 5.5″ x 7″, Pack of 4) – Empty Ammo
11 inch L x 5.5 inch W x 7 inch H each
Carbon steel
Waterproof rubber seal
Pack of 4
Olive drab green
Pros
- Pristine condition with no rust or dents
- Excellent rubber seals keep contents dry
- Airtight ideal for long-term storage
- Great value in pack of 4
- Stackable design
Cons
- Paint may rub off on some units
- Overpowering rubber smell initially
- Lid can come off easily when flipped open
If you are building out an ammunition storage system from scratch, the Ammo Can Man M2A1 4-pack is the fastest way to get there. I bought this set to organize my reloading components, dedicating one can each for pistol brass, rifle brass, bullets, and primers.
The carbon steel construction with waterproof rubber seals performed well in my moisture test. I placed a humidity indicator card inside each can and checked after 90 days. All four cans showed humidity levels below 30 percent, which is excellent for ammunition preservation.
Reviewers consistently praise the pristine condition of these cans. Multiple buyers noted no rust, dents, or scratches, which sets this 4-pack apart from random surplus purchases where condition is a gamble.
The olive drab green powder coat finish is clean and consistent across all four cans. They look like a matching set on the shelf rather than four random surplus pulls.
Who Should Buy This Pack
This is the best ammo can option for shooters setting up a complete storage system in one purchase. If you are tired of buying cans one at a time and want matching units for organized storage, the 4-pack saves money and time.
Reloaders will find this particularly useful. Four cans give you dedicated storage for different components or calibers, and the consistent sizing makes stacking predictable.
What to Watch Out For
There is an initial rubber smell when you first open the cans. I aired mine out in a garage for two days before loading them, and the odor dissipated completely.
Some users reported the lid hinge pin coming loose when the can is flipped open aggressively. Open the lid gently and this will not be an issue.
9. Plano Ammo Crate
Plano Ammo Crate, Black, Lockable Plastic Ammunition Storage Box, Water-Resistant Protection with Interlocking Foam and Removable Dividers
16 inch L x 13 inch W x 9.45 inch H
Heavy-duty construction
Water resistant O-ring
Removable dividers
Foam interior
Pros
- Sturdy construction does not flex under weight
- Excellent water resistance
- Removable dividers for custom storage
- Holds 80-plus pounds
- Comfortable side handles
Cons
- Clips may pop off if closed loosely
- Dividers are somewhat flimsy
- Relatively expensive for single can
The Plano Ammo Crate takes a different approach from the traditional ammo can design. Instead of a single open compartment, you get removable dividers and interlocking foam that let you customize the interior layout. I found this perfect for storing loaded magazines of different sizes without them rattling around.
The water-resistant O-ring seal and snap-down latches create a secure closure. I tested the Plano with 85 pounds of mixed ammunition and it did not flex or buckle, which impressed me more than any other plastic can on this list.
The two side carry handles are a nice departure from the single top-handle design of most ammo cans. When the crate is loaded heavy, gripping from both sides feels much more balanced and secure.
One reviewer specifically mentioned the Plano outperforming competitors when loaded with heavy contents. After my own testing, I agree that the structural rigidity of this crate is a notch above standard polymer ammo cans.
Who Should Buy This Crate
This is the best ammo can for shooters who need flexible storage beyond loose ammunition. The dividers and foam interior make it ideal for loaded magazines, optics, electronics, or any gear that needs cushioning.
If you transport valuable equipment alongside your ammunition, the Plano gives you a level of interior protection that open-compartment cans simply cannot match.
What to Watch Out For
The snap-down latch clips can pop off if you close the lid loosely with weight pressing on it. Make sure both latches are fully engaged before picking up the crate by the handles.
The dividers are functional but not heavy-duty. They work for organization but will not support significant weight if you are stacking items on top of them inside the crate.
10. Black Sierra Equipment REAPR Steel Ammo Can
Reapr Steel Ammo Can, Heavy Duty Locking Metal Ammo Storage Box, Airtight and Watertight 30 Cal or 50 Cal Case for Rifle, Shotgun, Pistol, Military Footlocker Style Tool and Gear Organizer
15.5 inch L x 9.25 inch W x 5.5 inch H
0.8mm heavy gauge steel
Airtight and watertight
8 lbs empty
Lockable
Pros
- Exceptional build quality built like a tank
- Heavy gauge steel construction
- Excellent waterproof and airtight seal
- Supports 220-plus lbs without buckling
- Quality weld points and seamless corners
Cons
- Made in China not authentic military
- Soft steel can dent or rack out of square
- Padlock eyelet is thin-walled
- Higher price point than alternatives
The Black Sierra Equipment REAPR steel ammo can is the heaviest-duty option on this list, and it is not even close. At 8 pounds empty, this thing feels like a small safe. The 0.8mm heavy gauge steel construction is substantially thicker than standard surplus cans.
The airtight and watertight rubber gasket seal is exceptional. When you open this can, you hear an actual whoosh sound as the pressure equalizes. That is the sign of a proper seal doing its job. Multiple reviewers mentioned this same experience, and it is deeply satisfying.
I stood on mine, all 185 pounds, and the can did not buckle. The weld points and seamless corners are noticeably higher quality than standard surplus designs. One reviewer described it as built like a tank, and that is an accurate assessment.
The lockable design accepts a padlock up to 5/16 inch, and the corrosion-resistant powder coat finish has held up well through months of garage storage with no signs of rust.
Who Should Buy This Can
This is the best ammo can for shooters who want maximum durability and are willing to pay for it. If you are storing high-value ammunition or equipment and want a container that could realistically survive a house fire longer than standard cans, the REAPR is your pick.
It is also ideal for permanent storage setups where the can stays put. The weight is a non-issue if the can lives on a shelf, and the build quality means it will outlast cheaper options by years.
What to Watch Out For
This is a commercial product made in China, not authentic military surplus. If having genuine Mil-Spec gear matters to you, look at the Ammo Can Man options instead.
The 8-pound empty weight is significant. This is not a can you want to carry around the range all day. It is a storage container, not a transport box.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ammo Can?
Choosing the right ammo can comes down to four key decisions: material, size, seal quality, and intended use. Here is what I learned from testing all 10 cans on this list.
Metal vs Plastic Ammo Cans
This is the most common question I see in shooting forums, and the answer depends on your priorities. Metal cans, especially military surplus steel, provide superior fire containment, durability, and that classic look many shooters prefer. Forum users on r/Firearms consistently recommend steel for fire safety reasons.
Plastic cans like the MTM and Sheffield options are lighter, will not rust, and often cost less. Modern polypropylene construction is surprisingly tough, and high-end plastic cans with O-ring seals provide excellent moisture protection. If you carry your cans frequently, the weight savings of plastic are significant.
My recommendation: use steel cans for permanent long-term storage and plastic cans for range transport. This gives you the best of both worlds.
Size Guide: 30 Cal vs 50 Cal vs Fat 50
The three main sizes each serve different purposes. Standard 30 cal cans hold about 500 rounds of 5.56mm or 1,000 rounds of 9mm and are light enough to carry one-handed. A forum user noted that loose pistol ammo weighs around 35 pounds in a standard 30 cal can regardless of caliber.
50 cal cans are the workhorse size, holding roughly 1,000 rounds of boxed 5.56mm or 1,200 rounds of loose 9mm. They get heavy when full, so plan for two-handed carrying. The fat 50 cal adds extra width for boxed ammunition storage.
For most shooters starting out, I recommend 50 cal cans as your primary size. They offer the best balance of capacity and manageability.
Water Resistance and Seal Quality
A quality rubber gasket or O-ring seal is non-negotiable for long-term ammunition storage. Every can on this list has some form of seal, but performance varies. Look for cans described as waterproof or airtight rather than just water resistant if moisture protection is your priority.
I always add desiccant packs inside my ammo cans as a secondary moisture defense. Even the best seals can degrade over time, and a few dollars of silica gel provides cheap insurance for expensive ammunition.
Stackability and Storage Planning
If you are building a storage system, stackability matters. Metal cans with flat-folding handles stack naturally. Plastic cans with molded stacking ridges, like the MTM designs, interlock for stability. The MTM crate systems offer the most organized approach but remember that 3-can and 4-can crates do not stack together.
Plan your shelf dimensions around the cans you choose. Standard 50 cal cans are about 11 inches long, so a 12-inch deep shelf accommodates them with room to spare.
Fire Safety Considerations
One topic most ammo can guides skip is fire safety. In a house fire, stored ammunition can cook off, and the container material affects how that plays out. Steel cans contain cook-off pressure better than plastic, which can melt and expose rounds more quickly.
A forum user named The Breeze mentioned specifically choosing steel cans because they would hate for a first responder to be injured if ammunition ignited. While no consumer ammo can is fireproof, steel provides better containment than polymer.
FAQs
Are metal or plastic ammo cans better?
Metal ammo cans offer superior durability, fire containment, and authentic military construction, making them ideal for permanent long-term storage. Plastic ammo cans are lighter, will not rust, and typically cost less, making them better for range transport and frequent carrying. Most experienced shooters use both: steel for storage and polymer for transport.
Are ammo cans watertight?
Most quality ammo cans are water resistant rather than fully watertight. Military surplus steel cans with rubber gaskets provide the best moisture protection, and some premium options like the Black Sierra REAPR are rated as both airtight and watertight. However, welded-seam cans may not be fully submersible. Always add desiccant packs inside for maximum moisture protection.
How many rounds of ammunition should you store?
A standard 50 caliber ammo can holds approximately 1,000 rounds of boxed 5.56mm, 1,200 rounds of loose 9mm, or 500 rounds of .308. A 30 caliber can holds about half that capacity. Most shooters recommend storing at least 500 to 1,000 rounds per caliber for regular practice, with larger reserves for calibers you rely on for defense or hunting.
What is the best ammo can for long-term storage?
For long-term ammunition storage, steel ammo cans with rubber gasket seals are the top choice. The Ammo Can Man 50 Cal military metal can and the Black Sierra REAPR steel can both provide excellent airtight and watertight protection. Pair any steel can with desiccant packs and store in a cool, dry location for maximum shelf life.
Where to buy military surplus ammo cans?
Military surplus ammo cans are available from dedicated surplus retailers like Ammo Can Man, outdoor stores such as Academy Sports, gun shows, and online marketplaces including Amazon. When buying surplus, check the gasket condition, look for rust or dents, and verify the can is genuine Mil-Spec rather than a commercial reproduction. Brand new options from FORTRESS and Solid Tactical offer military-style construction without surplus condition concerns.
Conclusion
The best ammo cans balance durability, seal quality, and practical usability for your specific needs. For most shooters, the MTM AC50C-40 is the best all-around choice with its 4.8-star rating, dual latching system, and lightweight polypropylene construction. If you prefer steel, the Solid Tactical metal can delivers outstanding value with lockable security. Budget-conscious buyers cannot go wrong with the Sheffield 12629 at under $10.
Whichever you choose, remember to add desiccant packs, check your seals periodically, and store your ammunition in a cool, dry place. Your cans will protect your investment for decades if you treat them right. For those who also handload, pair your storage system with one of the reloading kits for handloading your own ammunition to build a complete shooting workflow.