Best Ammo Can For The Money – Reviews and Comparison Guide 2018

As a gun owner, one of the most important investments is ammunition and having it in sufficient quantities is always a good idea.

Given how the prices of ammo have been increasing steadily over the past few years, purchasing a stock of the same to keep at home is not the worst idea.

However, keeping hundreds or even thousands of ammunition at home doesn’t always mean that it will always be safe.

Some hunters and gun owners are forced to recycle their ammo due to mildew, corrosion and mold getting into ammunition boxes. Sometimes the damage is so extensive that the ammunition has to be thrown away.

The good news is that you can make damaged rounds of ammo a thing of the past by investing in a good ammunition can.

In this post, we’ll share more details with you on how to choose the best ammo cans and review the TEN top models on the market for you.

But before we do that…

What Are Ammo Cans?

Otherwise known as a cartridge box, an ammunition can is a container that is specially designed for safe storage and transportation of ammo.

Metal ammo cans are durable and often have a gasket in the hinged lid, which provides added protection against moisture damage. Plastic ammo cans are also available on the market, and are a more affordable alternative to metal ones.

Ammo cans are usually labeled with the quantity, caliber, lot number and manufacture date.

It is important to note that not all ammunition boxes are made with metal or plastic. Cardboard and wood have been used for made decades to store ammunition.

The emergence of technology has also paved the way for plastic ammo cans.

 Since you now know what an ammo can is all about, now we can move on to our list of the 10 quality cans on the market today…

10 Best Ammo Can Picks:

1. MTM AC4C Ammo Crate (4-Can):

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Taking the crown for best ammo can is the MTM AC4C, a rugged ammunition crate for storing and transporting multi-caliber ammunition. Highlights include four O-ring sealed 30 caliber ammo cans. This is a convenient size for storing all kinds of bulk ammunition.

The O-ring seals is water resistant and helps prevent water damage to your ammunition.

You can stack the 30 caliber cans as tall as you want. This is made possible by four tie down spots for ATV attachment.  Stacking the cans makes it easier to prevent them from tipping over.

The MTM AC4C Ammo Crate is double padlock tabbed, which goes a long way towards keeping your ammo safe from unauthorized access or theft. The molded-in stacking ridges help with stacking your cans while the heavy duty latching system provides added security.

This crate is designed to hold up to 15 pounds of ammunition, a larger holding capacity compared to what other ammo cans offer. It is made from high quality polypropylene to last a long time.

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2. Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case Can Review:

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The Metal Ammo Case Can from Redneck Convent is sturdily constructed using heavy gauge solid steel for maximum strength and protection of your ammunition. The company uses rubber gasket to seal all of the edges. This ensures added protection against moisture, mold, debris or rust.

The hinged lid has a locking latch with durable lever, which allows you to secure your ammunition. There is a handle on top of the box that folds flat for stackable storage. This case is offered in military green, giving a muted and discrete appearance. It measures 11” deep, 7” tall and 4” across. What’s even better is that you can get the box in a larger size to store .50 caliber ammunition.

The Redneck Convent Metal Ammo Case is a great investment for storing your 9mm shells. And while it is not exactly military grade, the waterproof seal goes a long way towards protecting your ammo from damage. The handle makes it easy to carry the case around. Overall, this is one of the best metal ammo cans you can find.

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3. MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can:

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The MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can is our pick for best plastic ammo can and boasts a lightweight design compared to standard 50 caliber boxes.  It is the perfect tool for storing ammunition, and makes it easy to transfer ammo to and from the range.

This case is molded from high quality polypropylene, which can hold up to some pretty harsh treatment. Like other storage cans by MTM, this one utilizes the brand’s tongue and groove O-ring seal system. It provides superior water resistance, thus protecting your ammo from moisture, mold, mildew, rust and debris.

The MTM 50 Caliber Ammo Storage Can comes with a heavy duty latching system. It boosts the sealing properties of the O-ring system and makes it more difficult to open the storage case accidentally. The double padlock tabs along with the molded in stacking ridges go a long way towards making these cans the perfect solution for multiple storage needs.

At only 1.76 pounds, moving this can around is easy. You can also get it in a 50 caliber metal version, which weighs 300% heavier when empty but offers more durability.

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4. Plano 131250 1312 Ammo Box Review:

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The Plano 131250 1312 Ammo Box guarantees that your ammo is easily accessible when you need it. This cheap ammo can is solidly built with high quality plastic, and can withstand harsh treatment. It measures 11.63 inches long, 7.13 inches wide and 5.13 inches high, which is compact enough to fit in small spaces.

The box is equipped with a solid brass brailed latch that helps keep the contents inside. The lid does a great job of keeping your ammunition secure as it is lockable. You get a comfortable carry handle for easy transportation. At less than one pound in weight, moving around with this box should be a walk in the park.

It is specially designed to store 50 caliber ammunition, but can also be used for other caliber bullets. The box doesn’t disappoint when it comes to performance and will keep your ammo good for years to come. Its stackable design is a welcome design since it allows for convenient storage.

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5. Fortress 50 Caliber Ammo Can:

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The Fortress Ammo Can is designed to store 50 caliber ammunition and offers plenty of value for your money. Highlights include a rubber seal that ensures airtight storage of anything you keep in the can. It also provides waterproofing, thus protecting against moisture, mold, mildew and rust.

There is a solid hinged lid that provides added security for your ammo. We love the easy carry handle as it is comfortable and makes transporting ammo to and from the shooting range a walk in the park. Like most models, this can has a stackable design that allows for added convenience.

The latch helps keep the contents inside the can.

The Fortress 50 Caliber Ammo Can doesn’t disappoint when it comes to performance. It keeps your ammo safe from water damage, rust, mildew and mold. Additionally, it is secure enough to keep your ammo from prying hands yet easily accessible when you need it. This ammo can is built with metal to withstand the toughest terrain and environments, thus providing lasting reliability.

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6. MTM Ammo Can:

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The MTM Ammo Can is one of the largest ammo cans on the market. It uses a water resistant O-ring seal to protect your ammunition from moisture, rust, mold and mildew. However, this can doesn’t provide a lot of protection if submersed in water.

What we love most is the heavy duty latching system, which makes for a better seal and ensures the contents stay inside. The latch makes it even more difficult to open the can accidentally, yet keeps your ammo within easy reach when you need it.

Also included is a comfortable handle for easy transportation. The triple tabbed padlock offers added security for your ammo. This can is designed for stacking, which makes for more convenient storage. Like most ammo cans by MTM, this one is made from high-grade polypropylene plastic that allows for lasting reliability.

The MTM Ammo Can is capable of easily handling up to 30 pounds of gear. It stands up well to rough treatment and has molded-in stacking ridges. This is a great ammo can for storage sheds or damp basements. In addition to ammunition storage, it can be used as a first aid kit, RV camper storage container, or marine dry storage box.

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7. Flambeau Outdoors Mini Tactical Ammo Can:

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The Flambeau Outdoors Mini Tactical Ammo Can is a compact can that’s perfect for quick trips to the gun range as well as storing handgun ammo. It boasts a rugged design that is achieved with a great feature combination. Highlights include durable make with high grade polymer plastic.

This ammunition box is designed to fit four standard 50-round boxes of .45 ACP or five boxes of 9mm bullets. It features an O-ring seal that provides waterproofing capabilities and airtight storage to ensure maximum protection for your ammo. The box has an oversized latch that does a great job of ensuring that the contents stay inside.

The Flambeau Outdoors Mini Tactical Ammo Can will keep your ammunition secure and is comfortable to carry around thanks to the included ergonomic handle. It also comes with molded in stacking ridges that make it easy to stack multiple boxes for convenient storage. The case is completely waterproof, but doesn’t provide enough protection when submersed in water.

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8. MTM AC30T Ammo Can:

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The MTM AC30T Ammo Can is a 30-caliber military style ammunition box designed to hold up to 15 pounds of gear. It was made to replicate the shape of actual 30 caliber army surplus ammunition boxes. The can is molded out of rugged polypropylene plastic and features a sturdy bottom as well as thick sidewalls.

It is equipped with a water resistant O-ring seal that provides an added layer of protection. The heavy duty latching system helps keep your contents secure and inside the can at all times. Still on the issue of security, this box is double padlock tabbed to keep your ammunition from unauthorized access.

The MTM AC30T offers a great solution to storing bulk ammunition and will hold up well to years of service. It is a great storage choice for garages, basements and sheds. It will not disappoint when it comes to performance. The can will keep your ammo safe from moisture, rust and mildew whilst ensuring that it is within easy reach when you need it.

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9. MTM Tactical Mag Can 15 for .223/5.56 Magazine Storage TMC15:

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The MTM Tactical Mag TMC15 is another best ammo box specially designed to hold 20 or 30 round .223/5.56 magazines with precut foam padding. In addition to storing your magpile magazines securely, this can also leaves enough room to keep additional small boxes. It also boasts a stackable design that allows for added convenience during storage.

This ammunition box pulls all of the stops when it comes to keeping your ammunition secure. For starters, it has three tabbed padlocks that you can choose from. It is also equipped with dual latches for better sealing. The latches do a great job of preventing accidental openings and allowing easy access to ammo when needed.

The AR slots are designed for Magpul PMAG 30 AR/M4 magazines without dust covers. This is because with the inclusion of water resistant O-ring, entry of water, dust and debris is a thing of the past.  If with ranger plates and dust covers, the can will only be able to hold six Magpul PMAG 30 AR/M4 mags.

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10. Solid Tactical 50 Cal Ammo Can:

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The Solid Tactical 50 Cal Ammo Can is a cheap ammo can designed for ease of carrying and maximum security for your ammo. Highlights include individual testing for air and water tightness to ensure that your valuables are dry. The can is shipped with three packs of desiccant packs that pull any remaining moisture once the lid is closed. 

It is made from solid steel, a high quality metal that is perfect for long term storage. The heavy duty latching system helps keep the contents inside the box while the handle lies flat to allow for slip-resistant stacking.

It is a military grade can that can be used to store 50 caliber ammunition. This is a perfect storage solution for garages, basements and sheds. It is completely waterproof but like most, non-submersible.

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What to Consider When Looking For Ammo Can

In your hunt for the perfect can for safe, secure transportation of your ammo, there are a number of factors you should use to guide you through the selection process.

In this section, I’ll take you through these factors to help you easily and quickly find that can that meets your specific needs and expectations.

Material

Most ammunition cans are made from high quality materials that can withstand tough weather conditions. They are dustproof and waterproof, thus keeping your ammo safe from damage.

Ammunition boxes are usually offered in two material options, each with its own potential benefits. You can get them in metal, plastics and other forms of plastics.

Dimension

The dimensions of your ammo box should be determined by the kind of ammunition you are looking to store. As far as size goes, there are plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to research this feature before deciding on a specific model.

Cost

Ammo cans generally cost $15 to $150 depending on the materials and features offered. A waterproof can made from plastic will suffice if you don’t have a lot to spend. Such a model can accommodate 30 pounds of ammo.

Pricier ammunition boxes are an excellent choice if you want a high quality product that can hold pistols. Some are even backed by a lifetime warranty.

Performance and ease of use

Ammunition boxes can be used for more than just storing your ammo. They are also good for keeping your guns and other valuables safely tucked away. This is particularly important if you are travelling across state lines.

There is every chance that faulty ammunition will affect your hunting game, and not in a good way.

You want to choose an ammo can that will keep your ammunition properly stored and protect from damage in the long term. It should also be easy to use in terms of opening and locking it, as well as storage and maintenance.

Plastic vs. Metal Ammo Can: Which One to Choose and Why?

Metal cans, particularly those made from steel, are made to be virtually indestructible. They are fire resistant and can withstand most weather conditions. Additionally, metal cans come with a foam or rubber gasket that ensures the lid is properly sealed when closed. This also helps with keeping the can air and water tight. Locking hardware is usually included for added security.

Plastic cans are made from thicker plastic and can withstand a considerable amount of damage. They are lightweight and more suitable for travelling as compared to metal ones. Unfortunately, they don’t offer as much protection air/water tight protection and durability as metal cans.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which ammo can is better for long term storage between metal and plastic?

Due to the high level of air and water protection as well as durability offered, metal ammunition cans are the better option for long term storage. No moisture gets in and the air is kept in, which helps with temperature regulation.

2. How do I know the size of can to purchase?

This depends on the size of ammunition to be stored as well as any other intended use. Make sure you check the can dimensions before making a final decision.

3. Are there plastic ammo cans that are waterproof?

Yes. There are many manufacturers who offer waterproof ammunition cans made from plastic.

Final Verdict

Damaged ammunition is no good for you or your guns. It cannot only compromise your safety, but it can also lead to loss of integrity of your ammo.

The only thing that can save your ammo from getting damaged is a quality ammo can.

With so many options on the market, however, you need to be extra careful what you pick to ensure it matches your ammo storage needs. The best ammo box should offer you maximum protection and performance. Keeping these factors in mind during your search will ensure that you get a can that satisfies these conditions.

To save yourself the tedious shopping task, you can also directly order your ideal ammo can from the 10 most popular cans we’ve reviewed for you in this post.