Ruger hard plastic clamshell case: safe to store guns in w/ dessicant?

[MatthewVanitas]

I've read a few things on the board saying that it's bad to keep a gun in a hardshell "clam" case. Referring to the solid plastic cases, with no cushioning.

Is this a bad practice? Is it better or worse than keeping it in the cardboard box that many older guns came with? Does the situation change if you toss in a dessicant pack?

I like the hardshell cases that Rugers come with, and every airline I've used accepts them in checked luggage if you put a padlock on it. Just wanted to know if it will damage the gun to keep it in there long-term, and if dessicant packs will help.

My vague, vague impression is that the ideal is to store the gun in an enclosed space with a humidity-decreasing device, sitting on acid-free paper. Correct if wrong.

If Ruger clamshells are okay, I may need to buy a few more for used Rugers I bought w/o cases. Giving MkIIs to both siblings for Christmas, just need to know how to store them.

-MV

 

[BrainOnSigs]

Storing a gun in the original case with the polyurethane padding is where you can get into trouble (like a Sig's case). The polyurethane isn't closed cell and can retain moisture causing rust issues.

 

[gezzer]

Don't let the dessicant bags touch the gun it will rust them very badly. BTDT