Introduction
Finding a box of forgotten shotgun shells can be a bit like stumbling upon a forgotten treasure – or, potentially, a hidden hazard. Whether you’ve unearthed a cache in a basement, inherited a collection from a relative, or simply found some shells tucked away in your own storage, the question inevitably arises: Are those old shotgun shells safe? The answer, as you might suspect, isn’t a simple yes or no. This comprehensive guide will delve into the realities of old shotgun shell safety, providing you with the knowledge you need to handle these potentially volatile items responsibly. The goal is to help you understand the risks and make informed decisions that prioritize your safety and the safety of others.
Shotgun shells are complex little packages, each designed to deliver a powerful and controlled projectile. They are a marvel of engineering, but like all things, they are subject to the ravages of time and environmental factors. Understanding their composition is the first step toward understanding the potential dangers.
Understanding the Components of a Shotgun Shell
A modern shotgun shell is made up of several key components, each playing a crucial role in its function. The interaction of these components, and their degradation over time, is what dictates the safety concerns we’ll be discussing.
Primer
First, you have the Primer, the heart of the firing sequence. This small, highly sensitive component contains a chemical compound designed to ignite when struck by the firing pin. The primer provides the initial spark that starts the entire process.
Propellant (Gunpowder)
Next is the Propellant, more commonly known as gunpowder. This is the fuel that drives the shot down the barrel. It’s a carefully formulated mix of chemicals that burn rapidly, generating expanding gases that propel the shot forward.
Wad
Then there is the Wad, a critical piece of the puzzle that sits between the gunpowder and the shot. The wad serves multiple purposes: it seals the gases, preventing them from escaping around the shot; it protects the barrel from direct contact with the shot; and it often acts to provide some degree of shot pattern control.
Shot
The Shot, or the actual projectiles, are the reason we load the shells in the first place. These are the pellets, typically made of lead (though alternatives exist), that are propelled towards the target. Their size and number vary, depending on the intended use of the shell.
Hull
Finally, we have the Hull, which is the outer casing that holds everything together. This can be made from various materials, most commonly plastic or paper, and it’s the structure that contains all the components and allows the shell to be loaded into the shotgun chamber.
Risks Associated with Old Shotgun Shells – Deterioration and Hazards
Now that we understand the parts of a shell, let’s look at how they can change over time, and the dangers that these changes pose.
Primer Failure
One of the most significant threats comes from primer failure. The chemicals in the primer are sensitive to temperature and humidity. Over time, these chemicals can degrade, leading to a range of malfunctions. Exposure to moisture, for example, is a particular enemy. A damp environment can corrode the primer and alter its properties, making it unpredictable.
Misfires
The potential for misfires is a major concern. A misfire occurs when the firing pin strikes the primer, but the primer doesn’t ignite the gunpowder. This leaves a live shell in the chamber, which could potentially fire later, creating an unexpected hazard if you are not aware that it failed to fire.
Hangfires
Hangfires are even more dangerous. A hangfire is a delay between the firing pin striking the primer and the shell firing. The delay can be a fraction of a second or several seconds, and it’s often unpredictable. During that delay, you might assume the shell is a misfire and begin to take action, such as attempting to unload the gun or clearing the chamber. If the shell then fires, you risk being in the path of the blast, or having the gun explode in your hand.
Squib Loads
A squib load is the most frightening of the failures. In this instance, the primer ignites but does not generate enough force to eject the shot out of the barrel of the shotgun. The shot could possibly stop in the barrel. If a subsequent shot is fired without realizing the first shot is still inside the barrel, the barrel can explode. This can cause catastrophic damage to the firearm and serious injury to the shooter and people standing nearby.
Gunpowder Degradation
Another critical area of concern is the degradation of the propellant, the gunpowder. Like primers, gunpowder is also vulnerable to the effects of time, and environmental factors. Gunpowder is formulated for a specific burn rate, which is the speed at which it combusts. As gunpowder ages, its chemical composition can change, leading to a number of potentially dangerous outcomes.
One possibility is a loss of power. The gunpowder might burn less efficiently, resulting in a weaker shot and reduced range. This may not be immediately dangerous in the same way as a complete failure, but it can impact your accuracy and lead to frustration.
Far more concerning is the possibility of increased pressure. As gunpowder breaks down, it can burn in a way that generates more pressure than intended. This can put excessive stress on the firearm, potentially leading to barrel bulging, cracking, or even a catastrophic explosion.
This underscores the importance of storing ammunition properly. A cool, dry place away from direct sunlight is essential for preserving the integrity of gunpowder.
Hull Degradation
The hull, or the shell casing, is another part that can degrade over time. Especially when the hulls are made from plastic, they are subject to cracking, brittleness, and other forms of degradation. Exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures can accelerate this process.
A degraded hull can lead to several problems. It might fail during the firing process, causing the shell to disintegrate within the chamber. This can potentially jam the firearm or cause the firearm to malfunction. Cracking can allow gas to escape during firing, potentially affecting the shot pattern and the shooter.
A degraded hull can also lead to the release of the shot while handling or during the firing process. This can lead to significant injury, if you are standing close enough.
Storage Conditions and Their Impact
Storage conditions play a huge role in how long shotgun shells remain safe to handle. Temperature, humidity, and light exposure are all significant factors. High temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions within the shell, causing the gunpowder and primer to degrade more rapidly. High humidity can introduce moisture, which corrodes the primer and can affect the gunpowder. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can also degrade the materials in the shell.
Conversely, proper storage can significantly extend the life of shotgun shells. A cool, dry, and dark environment is ideal. Keep your shells in a climate-controlled area if possible. Avoid storing them in attics, garages, or other areas where temperatures and humidity fluctuate widely.
What To Do With Old Shotgun Shells
Now, considering everything that we’ve discussed, if you find a box of old shells, what steps should you take?
Inspecting Old Shells
Begin by thoroughly inspecting each shell. Look for any signs of damage or deterioration. Are the hulls cracked or bulged? Is there any visible corrosion on the primer? Does the shot look discolored or deformed?
If you observe any of these warning signs, the shell should be considered potentially unsafe. A good rule of thumb is: when in doubt, throw it out. The risks of using a questionable shell far outweigh any potential benefits.
If you are unsure about the condition of the shells, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Don’t take chances.
Safe Disposal Methods
What should you do with these potentially dangerous items? This is an area where safety must take precedence.
Contacting local law enforcement or the fire department is often the best course of action. They are usually equipped and trained to handle the safe disposal of ammunition. They can guide you through the proper procedures and ensure that the shells are disposed of in a safe and controlled manner.
Another option is to contact a local gun range or gun shop. Many ranges and shops offer disposal services, often as a free service to customers. The people at those locations typically have experience with safely handling and disposing of ammunition.
Do NOT Attempt to:
Above all, avoid any action that could create an unnecessary risk. Do not attempt to disassemble the shells yourself. They contain volatile chemicals, and disassembling them can be very dangerous. Also, resist the urge to reload old shells. The components may not be compatible with modern reloading equipment and processes, and the risks of using improperly reloaded ammunition can be substantial.
Do not even attempt to fire shells if you suspect they may be unsafe.
The Risks of Firing Old Shells
Firing old shotgun shells carries a range of very real dangers. You risk being injured by a malfunctioning shell. Gun damage is also a possibility. A catastrophic failure could damage your firearm beyond repair.
When handling ammunition, understanding and adhering to the legal and safety implications is essential. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Do not point a firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Practice safe gun handling at all times.
Always use the correct ammunition for your specific firearm, and never attempt to modify or tamper with ammunition. Always be sure to check your state’s laws about the safe handling, storage, and disposal of ammunition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question “Are old shotgun shells dangerous?” is best answered with a qualified yes. Age, storage conditions, and the inherent instability of the components mean that old shotgun shells often pose a higher risk of malfunction than newer ammunition.
Prioritizing safety means taking the time to understand the potential dangers. Always inspect old shells carefully before handling them, and if you are unsure about their condition, it’s best to avoid firing them. If you have shells that you suspect are unsafe, contact the appropriate authorities for proper disposal. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, is always the most important consideration.
Store ammunition properly: cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
In short, when it comes to old shotgun shells, caution is your best friend. Take your time, be thorough, and always prioritize safety.
Always consult with local authorities, gun shops, or firearms safety experts for information about their local laws and regulations.
