The ammunition you carry should be replaced regularly. Training will give you the opportunity to rotate your carry ammo and ensure the ammo you choose will function in your gun.
Properly stored Ammo Lasts for years
Proper storage of ammunition limits exposure to moisture and extreme temperature changes. Proper storage of ammunition limits exposure to moisture and extreme temperature changes.Ammunition properly stored in a dry environment will last for decades and function flawlessly.
Several years ago I bought some surplus ammo for my Mosin Nagant M44 that was dated back to the 1950”s. The ammo was stored in a sealed can until I bought it.
Surplus ammo is very popular with classic firearms enthusiasts. Surplus ammo is cheaper and available in most areas. It is also very reliable when stored properly.
Why you should rotate your carry ammo
The ammo you carry daily is in the same environment as you are. This exposure to the elements will degrade the ammunition over time and could lead to a failure.
Concealed carry guns get dirty from being with you every day and require regular cleaning to maintain reliability. Sweat and body oils have a way of getting into your gun and onto the ammunition in it.
Moving from a very cold environment into a hot environment can cause condensation on your gun and your ammo. Think about how often you eat inside a cool restaurant and step into the summer heat when you leave.
Carry ammo will degrade over time
I carry my gun everywhere that is legal for me to. It is difficult to protect yourself with something you don’t have. It is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
I made the mistake of not rotating my carry ammo years ago. I initially spend the money to make sure it functioned in my gun but didn’t want the added cost of replacing it regularly.
The rounds in the magazine were very discolored and one day I decided to test them out. The failures I had with them were surprising and I’m glad I discovered it at the range instead of in a fight for my life.
Don’t make the mistake of believing carry ammo lasts for years. Law enforcement and people who take their personal self protection seriously will not take the risk.