How long will powder last in factory containers?

[wiley243]

I used to shoot and reload a fair amount...until I met my wife. Then we had kids. Now the kids are getting old enough that I can spend a bit more time shooting again,yes!)

I want to get my reloading bench fired up again, but I don't know if all the powder I have is still good. It is about 10-12 years old.

I don't know if it matters what I reload, but just in case...I plan to start reloading .45acp first, and then will likely get my .243 going next.

Any help would be great.

Thanks in advance!

 

[280man]

I have used plenty of powder that is the age you are talking about you should have no problems granted it was stored in climate control however each lot of powder should be carefully inspected for deterioration

 

[wiley243]

Thanks for the reply 280man. When I inspect for deterioration, what evidence would I be looking for to know if I should not use the powder?

 

[280man]

what I found one time in an old metal can of IMR4350 was the inside of can had rusted and the sticks had become discolored and were crumbling if I had any doubts get rid of it new powder powder is cheaper than your head

 

[wiley243]

LOL...so true

Thanks again.

 

[Preacher]

As long as the powder looks and smells normal it is safe to shoot. If it's discolored at all or has a strange odor to it don't use it.
I'm still burning 20 year old 700 X with no problems at all. If it's stored under normal conditions it will last forever....

 

[Nisbet]

The volume of powder in a container does not matter either.
Think of a case as a small storage container, then consider the fact that many people are still using surplus military ammo from 50, 75, and more years ago.
When the CMP was issuing ammo at the national matches at Camp Perry and occasionally to clubs for training, it was often WW-II vintage.