Powder Storage
Quote from Reloader on November 15, 2015, 3:26 amI am reading that powder should be stored in a 1 inch thick wood box. my question is does this mean what is commonly referred in the lumber yard to 1 inch shelf board that is really 3/4 inch thick?
I want to build what is the correct way to store my powder (I purchased a giant ammo can all sealed thinking that would keep it dry, then I read all I have done is make a nice bomb if there was ever a fire)
I do not understand why it says it should be insulated to keep it cool and then it should be ventilated. Does not ventilation kind of negate any insulation benefits?
Thank you for any help passed along!
Delbert McCord
I am reading that powder should be stored in a 1 inch thick wood box. my question is does this mean what is commonly referred in the lumber yard to 1 inch shelf board that is really 3/4 inch thick?
I want to build what is the correct way to store my powder (I purchased a giant ammo can all sealed thinking that would keep it dry, then I read all I have done is make a nice bomb if there was ever a fire)
I do not understand why it says it should be insulated to keep it cool and then it should be ventilated. Does not ventilation kind of negate any insulation benefits?
Thank you for any help passed along!
Delbert McCord
Quote from Reloader on November 16, 2015, 5:01 pmNominal 1" thick pine is what is typically used in the construction of powder boxes. A powder box is usually needed if you have a large quantity of powder on hand. With gunpowder, you need to not have an airtight box. This way, in the event of a fire, the expanding gasses won't build up , they vent out. An old ice box can be used, provided the lid is not latched closed.
For long-term storage, it is recommended to keep the powder below about 80 degrees, and above freezing.
Nominal 1" thick pine is what is typically used in the construction of powder boxes. A powder box is usually needed if you have a large quantity of powder on hand. With gunpowder, you need to not have an airtight box. This way, in the event of a fire, the expanding gasses won't build up , they vent out. An old ice box can be used, provided the lid is not latched closed.
For long-term storage, it is recommended to keep the powder below about 80 degrees, and above freezing.
Quote from Reloader on December 3, 2015, 4:02 pmI have stored powder in my loading room, in my basement for 40 years. It's about 70% humidity down there in the summer months. I store all my powder in a tall metal filing cabinet. Keep the lids tight on your powder and as long as it doesn't actually get wet it should be fine.
I have stored powder in my loading room, in my basement for 40 years. It's about 70% humidity down there in the summer months. I store all my powder in a tall metal filing cabinet. Keep the lids tight on your powder and as long as it doesn't actually get wet it should be fine.