Choosing the right ammunition and magazine storage—whether for range trips, long-term storage, or safe transport—matters for safety, reliability, and ammo longevity. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert and consumer feedback to recommend dependable ammo boxes, cans, and cases that suit a range of needs and budgets.
Considerations and Testing Approach
What we tested and why:
- Durability & construction — materials (steel vs. reinforced plastic), hinge/latch quality, and resistance to impact and crushing.
- Environmental protection — seals, IP ratings or water-resistant design, and resistance to dust and humidity.
- Capacity & organization — how much ammo fits, foam or divider systems, and whether the case accommodates multiple calibers.
- Security & transportability — padlock tabs or locking latches, handles, stackability, and weight when loaded.
- Real-world use — how well each product suits hunting trips, range transport, long-term storage, or competitive shooting needs.
How we reached recommendations:
- Hands-on evaluation of build quality, seals, and ease of use.
- Cross-referencing expert reviews and owner feedback for reliability and long-term issues (corrosion, latch failures, foam breakdown).
- Prioritizing products that balance protection, capacity, and reasonable cost for their intended use.
What influenced rankings:
- Real-world usage scenarios (range vs. long-term storage vs. transport).
- Expert opinion and recurring consumer reports on longevity and problems.
- Value per dollar when factoring in protection, capacity, and features.
Field Ammo Box
A no-nonsense, budget-friendly ammo crate that protects and organizes a few boxes of .30-caliber rounds. Durable plastic, water-resistant tongue-and-groove lid, padlock tab, and a comfortable handle make it a reliable pick for range trips and short-term storage.
Plano Field Ammo Box — Best Budget Pick
The Plano Field Ammo Box is a straightforward, low-cost solution for shooters who need a lightweight, stackable container for range days or short-term transport. Built from heavy-duty plastic with a tongue-and-groove, water-resistant lid and a padlock tab, it holds roughly 6–8 boxes of .30-caliber ammunition. Pros: very affordable, easy to carry, and stackable. Cons: not a fully sealed IP-rated case and less suitable for prolonged outdoor storage in humid environments. Technical notes: plastic construction minimizes weight and resists denting but won’t match steel cans for long-term, airtight storage.
Shotgun Shell Case
High-capacity, waterproof shotgun case with dual-layer EVA foam that holds 260 shells. Built from rugged PP material with lockable latches and an IP67-rated seal, it’s tailored for hunters and competitive shooters who need secure, moisture-proof storage.
Shotgun Shell Case — Premium Choice
This shotgun shell case targets serious shooters and professionals who demand superior protection and organization. The box accommodates up to 260 shells across two foam-lined layers, with precision-cut EVA foam that cradles each round and reduces movement. The case uses durable polypropylene construction and an IP67-level waterproof seal (desiccant included), making it excellent for wet or humid conditions. Pros: outstanding protection, custom foam layout, and true waterproofing for long-term storage. Cons: larger footprint and higher price versus simple totes; heavier when fully loaded. Technical details: 14 x 13 x 8 inches overall, lockable latches, dual-layer foam cutouts optimized for 12GA (also accepts several other gauges with careful layout).
Fortress 50 Cal Can
A classic steel 50-caliber ammo can offering airtight, rubber-sealed storage and a sturdy hinged lid. All-steel construction makes it ideal for long-term ammo protection, transport, and stackable storage in garages or sheds.
Fortress 50 Caliber Metal Ammo Can — Best Value for Money
The Fortress 50 Cal ammo can exemplifies the reliable, no-frills steel can design embraced by shooters for decades. With all-steel construction, a rubber gasket for an airtight seal, and a solid hinged lid and carry handle, it provides excellent long-term storage at a modest price. Pros: rugged, stackable, and familiar mil‑spec style protection—great for long-term, airtight storage of loose rounds or boxed ammo. Cons: heavier than plastic options and vulnerable to surface rust if paint or finish is damaged; not intrinsically lockable without aftermarket solutions. Technical note: the steel construction offers superior puncture resistance and crush protection compared with many plastics.
9mm Ammo Storage
A high-capacity, triple-layer 9mm storage case holding up to 1,296 rounds. Reinforced polypropylene, IP67 waterproof gasket, and precision foam layers make this an excellent choice for bulk buyers, competitive shooters, or anyone needing organised, long-term ammo storage.
9mm Ammo Box Storage Case — Editors' Choice
This 9mm storage case stands out for sheer capacity and practical protection. The three-layer foam system holds up to 1,296 rounds (across three removable layers) and supports multiple calibers with snug foam cutouts. Reinforced polypropylene construction and an IP67-rated rubber gasket offer near-military durability and water/dust protection. Pros: enormous capacity, modular foam organization, lockable latches, and stackable design—excellent for bulk ammo buyers and range facilities. Cons: large and heavy when filled, and overkill for users who only store a small amount of ammo. Technical details: triple foam layers for up to 1296 rounds, ergonomic handles, reinforced latches, and mil‑spec grade polypropylene construction.
Comparative Overview
Quick comparison of the top picks:
- Field Ammo Box (Budget) — Best for short-term range transport and light storage. Extremely affordable and lightweight; not ideal for long-term, moisture-prone environments. (Price: $7.99)
- Shotgun Shell Case (Premium) — Best for dedicated hunters or shooters who need waterproof, foam-protected organization for many shotgun shells. High protection, higher price. (Price: $65.99)
- Fortress 50 Cal Can (Value) — Best balance of ruggedness and price for long-term, airtight storage. Classic steel can that's easy to stack and widely trusted. (Price: $23.84)
- 9mm Ammo Storage (Editors' Choice) — Best overall for capacity and protection. Ideal for bulk storage, range owners, or competitive shooters who want secure, waterproof, modular organization. (Price: $59.99)
Best overall: The 9mm Ammo Storage case earns Editors' Choice for combining capacity, build quality, and environmental protection—making it the most versatile solution for both bulk storage and professional use.
Best alternatives for specific needs:
- On a tight budget or for light-duty transport: choose the Field Ammo Box.
- For long-term, airtight metal storage that’s crush-resistant: choose the Fortress 50 Cal Can.
- For the highest level of waterproof protection and bespoke organization for shotgun shells: choose the Shotgun Shell Case.
Final Recommendation
All four picks are strong in their respective roles. For most users who want a single excellent solution, the Editors' Choice 9mm Ammo Storage case is the most versatile: it offers serious capacity, robust construction, and weatherproof protection for long-term storage or range inventory. If you need a compact, budget-friendly option for range trips, the Plano Field Ammo Box is a reliable cheap pick. If your priority is classic, airtight metal storage for long-term preservation, the Fortress 50 Cal Can gives outstanding value. And for shotgun owners who need organized, waterproof protection for individual shells, the Shotgun Shell Case is worth the premium.
These recommendations reflect hands-on evaluations, cross-checked expert advice, and consumer feedback. Choose based on capacity needs, environmental exposure, and whether portability or long-term preservation is your priority:
- Choose the Field Ammo Box for short trips and minimal cost.
- Choose the Fortress can for classic, long-term steel storage.
- Choose the Shotgun Shell Case for premium, waterproof shotgun organization.
- Choose the 9mm Ammo Storage case for bulk capacity and best-in-class protection.
If you’d like, I can recommend the best choice based on your specific scenario (range bag, home storage, hunting trips, or bulk resale), and help you decide accessories like desiccants, lock options, or foam inserts tailored to your needs.