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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Ammo Boxes

Store and organize ammunition safely with plastic cases and military surplus cans.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
Case-Gard 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box

MTM

Case-Gard 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box

4.8 (12,345 reviews)

The industry standard for loose ammo storage. MTM boxes organize reloads, store factory ammo, and survive decades of use.

Capacity

50 rounds

Material

Polypropylene

Hinge

Living/mechanical

Latch

Snap-lock

Pros

  • βœ“ Mechanical hinge won't fail
  • βœ“ Textured for grip
  • βœ“ Snap-lock latch

Cons

  • βœ— Not waterproof
  • βœ— Single caliber per box
  • βœ— Clear lid can crack

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Case-Gard 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box
Case-Gard 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box Best
MTM
4.8
$7 View
1312 Field/Ammo Box
1312 Field/Ammo Box Value
Plano
4.6
$12 View
M2A1 .50 Cal Ammo Can
M2A1 .50 Cal Ammo Can
Military Surplus
4.7
$18 View
100 Round Pistol Ammo Box
100 Round Pistol Ammo Box
Berry's
4.5
$4 View
Hinge-Top Ammo Box 50 Round
Hinge-Top Ammo Box 50 Round
Frankford Arsenal
4.6
$8 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Case-Gard 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box

MTM

Case-Gard 50 Round Rifle Ammo Box

4.8 (12,345 reviews)

The industry standard for loose ammo storage. MTM boxes organize reloads, store factory ammo, and survive decades of use.

Capacity

50 rounds

Material

Polypropylene

Hinge

Living/mechanical

Latch

Snap-lock

Pros

  • βœ“ Mechanical hinge won't fail
  • βœ“ Textured for grip
  • βœ“ Snap-lock latch

Cons

  • βœ— Not waterproof
  • βœ— Single caliber per box
  • βœ— Clear lid can crack
Best Value
1312 Field/Ammo Box

Plano

1312 Field/Ammo Box

4.6 (8,765 reviews)

Water-resistant bulk ammo storage that stacks neatly. O-ring seal keeps moisture out where it matters.

Capacity

Bulk

Material

Heavy-duty plastic

Seal

O-ring

Style

Can

Pros

  • βœ“ O-ring seal
  • βœ“ Heavy-duty latch
  • βœ“ Stackable

Cons

  • βœ— Not submersible
  • βœ— Heavy when full
  • βœ— Bulk storage only
Premium Pick
M2A1 .50 Cal Ammo Can

Military Surplus

M2A1 .50 Cal Ammo Can

4.7 (23,456 reviews)

The ammo can that survived actual military service. Nothing protects ammunition from the elements better than proven surplus.

Capacity

Large bulk

Material

Steel

Seal

Rubber gasket

Origin

Military surplus

Pros

  • βœ“ Waterproof seal
  • βœ“ Steel construction
  • βœ“ Military proven

Cons

  • βœ— Heavy
  • βœ— Can rust if neglected
  • βœ— Variable condition
Budget Pick
100 Round Pistol Ammo Box

Berry's

100 Round Pistol Ammo Box

4.5 (9,876 reviews)

Cheap and functional pistol ammo storage. Berry's proves you don't need to overpay for basic organization.

Capacity

100 rounds

Material

Polypropylene

Style

Hinge-top

Calibers

Various

Pros

  • βœ“ Very affordable
  • βœ“ Hinge-top design
  • βœ“ Multiple calibers

Cons

  • βœ— Basic construction
  • βœ— Hinge can weaken
  • βœ— Not as durable
Hinge-Top Ammo Box 50 Round

Frankford Arsenal

Hinge-Top Ammo Box 50 Round

4.6 (6,543 reviews)

Built by reloaders for reloaders. Frankford Arsenal understands the small details that make ammo storage work.

Capacity

50 rounds

Material

Plastic

Hinge

Integrated

Design

Reloader-focused

Pros

  • βœ“ Solid hinge design
  • βœ“ Reloader-friendly
  • βœ“ Multiple sizes

Cons

  • βœ— Not waterproof
  • βœ— Similar to competitors
  • βœ— Lid can be stiff

Buying Guide: How to Choose Ammo Boxes

How to Choose Ammo Boxes

Organized Ammunition Lasts Longer
Proper storage protects your investment from moisture, damage, and disorganization. Loose ammo in drawers is a recipe for problems.

### Storage Types
Individual round boxes: Organize by caliber, protect during transport
Bulk/can storage: Large quantities, long-term protection
Military surplus cans: Maximum protection, waterproof seal

### Material Considerations
Plastic: Light, affordable, color-coded options
Metal (surplus): Waterproof, fireproof, heavier, more expensive

### Organization Strategy
Label everything. Separate by caliber, load data, and purchase date. Rotate stockβ€”shoot oldest first.

### Moisture Control
Add silica gel packets to any container. Check seals regularly. Store in climate-controlled spaces when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ammo Boxes

Plastic ammo boxes or metal cans?

Plastic for organization and transport. Metal for long-term storage and maximum protection. Both have their place.

How long can ammunition be stored?

Properly stored, modern ammunition lasts 20+ years. Key factors: cool, dry, stable temperature, and away from solvents.

Should I store ammo in original packaging?

Factory boxes work fine but can deteriorate. Dedicated ammo boxes provide better long-term protection and organization.

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