Safe Disposal and Recycling of Unwanted Ammunition
When dealing with unwanted or obsolete ammunition, it's crucial to handle it safely to avoid accidents and environmental harm. Whether you're facing boxes of shotgun shells, centerfire or rimfire cartridges, or any other types, proper disposal and recycling methods can ensure both safety and sustainability.
Understanding the Problem
Many ammunition enthusiasts and collectors find themselves with outdated or unused cartridges. For those like ourselves who store these items on desks or in basements, the question of disposal arises. It's important to know how to dispose of ammunition safely to prevent accidents, contamination, and environmental harm.
Safe Disposal Methods
1. Using a Bullet Puller:
To start, using a bullet puller can be a great way to reuse the ammunition. This method allows you to remove the bullets and powder, which can then be repurposed or reused. If the bullets are lead-based, they are valuable and can be used in load-matching and custom reloading. The powder, if you know its type and it's stable, can also be reused or safely disposed of in a trash fire.
2. Rendering Unwanted Casing Harmless:
If you're not interested in keeping the casings, a method involves adding a few drops of oil to the case to kill the primer, then storing them in a box of unusable cases. This prevents accidental ignition and reduces the risk of environmental damage. Additionally, if you have valuable brass casings, you can heat the primers to remove them, then sell the brass for recycling. This approach not only clears your storage but also adds value back into the system.
Advanced Recycling Options
1. Explosives Waste Incinerator:
For a more industrial solution, there are specialized explosives waste incinerators, often used in a rotary kiln with an automatic feed mechanism. These systems are designed to handle the disposal of ammunition by incinerating it, recovering the metal components like lead and brass, and scrubbing the gas emissions to prevent pollution.
2. Local Ranges and Gun Shops:
In more hands-on situations, many local gun ranges and gun shops offer services for the safe disposal of ammunition. These facilities often have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle the destruction of cartridges. Simply contacting your local gun shop or range can provide guidance on the proper disposal process.
Historical Context and Current Practices
Historical Methods:
In the past, when ammunition reached its expiration date or was deemed unserviceable, it was often transported to a nearby range and destroyed through controlled detonations. This method, while effective, was not as environmentally friendly as modern incineration techniques.
Current Practices:
Today, many communities and organizations recommend contacting local facilities for proper disposal. The goal is to minimize environmental impact and ensure the safe evacuation of hazardous materials.
Regardless of the approach you choose, always prioritize safety and follow local regulations and guidelines. Remember, proper handling and disposal can greatly reduce the risk to yourself and the environment.
Conclusion
Safe disposal and recycling of unwanted ammunition is a crucial aspect of hobbyist and collector responsibility. By employing methods such as using a bullet puller, rendering casings harmless, or utilizing specialized incinerators, you can ensure both safety and sustainability. Always seek advice from local resources and follow best practices to handle these materials responsibly.