Storing Guns & Ammo in AZ Heat

[PhoenixRookie]

I live in Phoenix, AZ and have a question on gun storage. I've recently inherited a few pistols and rifles that haven't been fired in probably 30 years. They don't have much value except for the sentimental kind.

Anway, how can I store them safely? We are generally pretty dry except for the monsoon seasons of August/September where it can be 60-80% humidity for that time period. But what about the heat in general? My garage is about 110 degrees all summer long and would guess the attic is at least 130 since my back patio varies from 130-145 due to the sun exposure. Last summer actually killed my thermometer.

Does this prolonged heat affect either the guns or the ammo? I've oiled them and stuck them in gun socks from Cabelas but still worry about it. I am guessing a gun safe with that dehumidifier stuff would be best. By the way, my wife doesn't know about these guns but don't think I can hide a safe in our garage.

 

[armoredman]

No worries. I have seen shotgun shells melt onto a dashboard, and not go off. But, you should store them safely inside, just to protect them for those sentimental reasons. I understand the wife not knowing about them YET, but she will - how long did you want to sleep on the couch? Bought a big comfy one yet?
Gunsocks in the garage, safely stored where unauthorized hands can get to them, you should be good.Then figure out how to get her to agree moving them indoors, and get a safe.

 

[marksman13]

We stored all our weapons in a metal trailer in Iraq. Even with outside temperatures of 130 degrees we didn't see any ill effects on the weapons or ammo. Don't know it wood gun stocks might be affected differently though.

 

[loop]

As someone who has lived in the desert for more than 30 years I can safely say your method of storage is adequate. You can probably get away with yearly inspections. I'd do them about two or three weeks into the summer rainy season.

Ammo is a different story. Store all your ammo bullets down. The heat in the desert, particularly in a garage or other enclosed area, can be overwhelming for ammo. Powder can secrete oils that can contaminate primers - making for disconcerting duds.

Also, if you have lead bullets they are lubricated with wax. If the wax melts it can get into the powder and coat the powder so it won't ignite. It can also block the flash-hole in the cartridge case and even contaminate the primer itself.

My garage has topped 140f frequently during the summer. I've learned the hard way - if you want it to go bang, store it with the bullets down.

 

[Valkman]

I store my ammo inside in my office closet, and my reloading powder and primers also. I figure it'd be OK out in the garage but may last longer indoors.