Estimated reading time: 14 minutes
Do you have any ammo cans lying around? If so, you’re in luck – these little metal boxes can be used for a variety of purposes other than just storing ammo. In fact, you might be surprised at some of the ingenious survival uses for ammo cans.
Ammo cans are more than just a place to store your ammunition. These sturdy containers can also be used for a variety of survival purposes. Here are some clever ideas.
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1. Fill Them With Dirt or Sand to Fortify Your Shelter
Ammo cans are great for more than just storing ammunition. They’re also perfect for filling with dirt or sand to fortify your shelter. Ammo cans are made of sturdy metal, so they can withstand a lot of weight.
And, because they’re airtight, they won’t leak if you fill them with wet dirt or sand. Plus, ammo cans are easy to transport, so you can move them around as needed. So if you’re looking for a way to fortify your shelter, consider using an ammo can to fill it with dirt or sand.
2. Make an Ammo Cache
If you’re a gun owner, then you know how important it is to have a reliable place to store your ammunition. An ammo can is the perfect solution – and perhaps the most obvious use of this piece of equipment!
Ammo cans are watertight and airtight, so you can be sure that your ammunition will stay dry and protected from the elements. Plus, they’re durable and stackable, so you can easily store them in a safe place. To make an ammo cache, simply line the bottom of the ammo can with a layer of sand.
This will help to absorb any moisture that may penetrate the can. Then, add a layer of small stones or pebbles. This will provide additional drainage in case of a leak. Finally, fill the can with your ammunition and seal it tight.
3. Create a First Aid Kit
An ammo can is a great way to create a first aid kit. It is waterproof and airtight, so you can store your supplies without worry. Plus, it is durable and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go.
Here are some items to include in your first aid kit: bandages, gauze, tape, scissors, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, antihistamines, and tweezers. You may also want to include a CPR mask and gloves.
4. Make an Ammo Trap
An ammo can make an ideal trap, as it is sturdy and can be easily sealed shut. To make an ammo trap, simply drill a hole in the bottom of the can large enough to fit your bait. Next, place the can on its side and prop it up with a stick or piece of wire. The bait should be placed inside the can, and the lid should be left slightly ajar.
When a pest enters the can in search of food, it will trigger the lid to close, trapping the animal inside. Check the trap regularly to ensure that no non-target animals have been caught, and dispose of any captured pests humanely.
5. Store Your Pistol Inside
You can even store your pistol in an ammo can. Ammo cans are designed to keep firearms safe and dry, and they’re often used by military and law enforcement personnel to transport weapons.
6. Make a Planter
An ammo can is the perfect size for a small plant, and it can be used to add a touch of industrial chic to your home décor. Plus, the metal construction will help to protect your plants from the elements.
To use an ammo can as a planter, simply drill a few holes in the bottom for drainage and fill with potting soil. Then, add your plant and water as usual. You can even paint the outside of the ammo can to match your décor.
7. Use it to Heat or Gather Water
When it comes to heating, ammo can make an excellent wood stove. Simply cut a hole in the top for ventilation and another in the side for loading wood. Then, line the inside of the can with fire bricks and light a fire. The bricks will help to reflect heat back into the fire, making it more efficient.
As for water gathering, an ammo can can be used to collect rainwater or snowmelt. Just drill a hole near the bottom of the can and place it in a location where it will catch water. Then, use a hose or bucket to transfer the water to where you need it.
8. Store Spare Gun Parts
An ammo can is a great way to store spare gun parts. It is durable and weatherproof, making it ideal for storing parts that are not in use. In addition, it is stackable, so you can easily organize your parts collection. And because it is airtight, it will keep your parts dry and free from corrosion.
9. Use it to Store Small Items Like Nails and Screws
An ammo can is a great way to store small items like nails and screws. Ammo cans are airtight and waterproof, so they’re perfect for keeping your nails and screws sorted and organized.
They’re also stackable, so you can easily store them in a closet or garage. Plus, ammo cans are inexpensive and widely available. So if you’re looking for an easy way to store your nails and screws, an ammo can is a great option.
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10. Attach it to Your Vehicle for Extra Storage
An ammo can is a great way to add extra storage to your vehicle. While they were originally designed to hold ammunition, they are now commonly used to store tools, gear, and other supplies. Ammo cans are usually made of metal, which makes them durable and weather-resistant.
They are also often equipped with a handle, which makes them easy to carry. Most importantly, ammo cans can be easily attached to a vehicle, making them the perfect choice for storing emergency supplies or camping gear.
11. Make a Cooler or Heater
An ammo can is a great way to keep your food and beverages cold or hot while you’re on the go. Ammo cans are made of metal, which helps to insulate your food and drinks from the outside temperature. To use an ammo can as a cooler, simply fill it with ice and your favorite drinks.
For a heatsink, fill the ammo can with hot water and place it next to your food to keep it warm. Ammo cans are also great for keeping food and drinks cold in the summer or hot in the winter.
12. Use it for Waterproof Electronic Storage
An ammo can is a great option for waterproof electronic storage. You can store your electronics in the can to protect them from the elements. The can will also keep out moisture and dust. If you are going to be using the can outdoors, make sure to place it in a location that is not subject to direct sunlight or heat.
You should also consider placing the can in a location where it will not be subject to excessive vibration. When storing your electronics in an ammo can, make sure to use padding to protect the items from damage. You should also label the can so that you know what is inside.
13. Keep Your Matches, Lighters, and Tinder Dry
One way to protect your matches and lighters is to store them in an ammo can. Ammo cans are designed to be watertight, keeping your matches dry and ready for use. In addition, they’re often made of metal, which can be used as a strike-anywhere surface. As a result, an ammo can is an ideal way to keep your fire-starting materials safe and dry.
14. Use it as a Stool for Sitting or a Stepstool
Ammo cans make excellent stools or step stools. Thanks to their durable construction, they can easily support the weight of an adult. Plus, their flat top and wide base make them stable and safe to use.
Ammo cans are also relatively lightweight, so they can be easily moved around as needed. Whether you need an extra seat for your next camping trip or a convenient way to reach those hard-to-reach places, an ammo can is a great option.
15. Make a DIY Survival Kit
Ammo cans are great for survival kits because they’re watertight, durable, and easy to carry. Plus, they’re already designed to hold small items, so you can just fill them up with the essentials and be on your way. So what should you include in your DIY survival kit? Here are a few ideas:
- A fire starter: A lighter, matches, or a ferro rod will do the trick.
- Some kindling: cotton balls soaked in petroleum jelly make great tinder, or you can use dryer lint.
- An emergency candle: These candles can provide light and heat in a pinch.
- A first aid kit:Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.
- A whistle: This will help you signal for help if you get lost or injured.
- A mini flashlight: A headlamp is ideal, but a small keychain light will work in a pinch.
Of course, you’ll want to tailor your survival kit to your specific needs, but these items should give you a good starting point. With an ammo can survival kit by your side, you’ll be prepared for whatever nature throws your way.
16. Create a Field Toilet
An ammo can is a perfect option for creating a field toilet. The metal cans are durable and airtight, keeping odors contained. They are also large enough to accommodate a generous amount of waste.
To use an ammo can as a toilet, simply line the bottom with a layer of sand or sawdust. This will help to absorb liquids and prevent waste from sticking to the sides of the can.
When the can is full, simply seal it up and dispose of it in a safe location. With a little bit of planning, an ammo can make an excellent field toilet that is both sanitary and easy to use.
17. Use it to Wash Clothes
Did you know that an ammo can also make a great makeshift washing machine? Just fill the can with water, add some detergent, and agitate the water to create suds. Then, add your dirty clothes and continue agitating until they’re clean.
When you’re finished, simply drain the water and rinse your clothes with clean water. With a little ingenuity, an ammo can can be a true multitasker!
18. Build a Radio
An ammo can is a great way to build a radio. You can use it to store all of your parts and tools, and it’s easy to transport. Plus, it’s waterproof and airtight, so your radio will be well-protected.
Here’s what you’ll need: an ammo can, a drill, a jigsaw, a soldering iron, wire cutters, and wire strippers. First, drill four holes in the top of the ammo can. Then, use the jigsaw to cut out a rectangular opening in the side of the can. Next, solder the antenna wire to the base of the radio.
Finally, connect the power wire to the battery. Your radio is now ready to use. Thanks to the ammo can, it’s durable and portable – perfect for taking on your next adventure.
19. Store Your Important Documents In It
With a few modifications, an ammo can make a great portable shower. All you need is a small water pump, a length of hose, and a shower head. To set up the shower, simply drill a hole in the bottom of the ammo can and attach the hose. Then, fill the can with water and turn on the pump.
The water will flow through the hose and out of the shower head, providing you with a refreshing way to clean off when you’re camping or hiking. Just be sure to empty and clean the can before storing it away again.
20. Store Seeds
If you live in an area with a lot of rainfall, you may want to consider using an ammo can to store your seeds. Ammo cans are designed to be watertight, so they can keep your seeds dry even in the wettest conditions.
Plus, they’re usually made of metal, so they’ll protect your seeds from rodents and other pests. Just make sure to punch a few holes in the lid for ventilation, and your seeds will be safe and sound until spring comes around.
21. Make a Shower
Drill a couple dozen tiny holes into the bottom of an ammo can and tie a rope to the top of the can. Next, hang the ammo can from a tree branch or something sturdy. Finally, dump several gallons into the top of the can, and the water will begin trickling out of the tiny holes. Voila! You now have a makeshift shower.
22. Make a Faraday Cage
In today’s world, we are increasingly reliant on electronic devices. From our phones and laptops to our cars and homes, electronics are a vital part of our lives. However, these devices are also vulnerable to electromagnetic pulses (EMPs), which can disable or destroy them.
One way to protect your electronics from an EMP is to use a Faraday cage. A Faraday cage is a metal enclosure that shields against electromagnetic fields. Ammo cans make excellent Faraday cages, as they are made of metal and have a tight-fitting lid.
To create a Faraday cage, simply line the ammo can with non-conductive material, such as cardboard or bubble wrap. Then, place your electronic devices inside the can and close the lid tightly. The metal exterior of the can will reflect the electromagnetic waves away from your devices, protecting them from damage.
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23. Fill It With Emergency Repair Supplies
An ammo can make an excellent emergency repair kit. It can be filled with essential supplies such as duct tape, a utility knife, and a flashlight. In the event of a power outage or natural disaster, these items can be used to make temporary repairs to your home.
An ammo can is an inexpensive and convenient way to store emergency repair supplies, and it can also be used to store other items such as camping gear or first-aid supplies.
24. Store Toilet Paper
When it comes to stockpiling supplies for a potential emergency, most people think of food and water.
But there are other items that can be just as important in a crisis situation. Toilet paper is one of those items. A single roll might not last long, but if you have a stockpile of toilet paper, you’ll be able to weather any storm.
And an ammo can is the perfect way to store your toilet paper. Ammo cans are airtight and watertight, so they’ll keep your toilet paper dry and protected from the elements. They’re also stackable, so you can easily store a large quantity of toilet paper if needed.
Plus, ammo cans are inexpensive and widely available. So if you’re looking for a way to store your toilet paper, an ammo can is a great option.
25. Use it to Store Emergency Cooking Supplies
an ammo can make an excellent storage container for emergency cooking supplies. canned goods, dry mixes, and other non-perishable food items can all be safely stored in an ammo can.
In addition, the airtight seal will help to keep food items fresh for longer periods of time. Waterproof and durable, an ammo can is an ideal way to protect your emergency cooking supplies from the elements.
26. Use as a HAZ-MAT Waste Container
An ammo can is a great way to store HAZ-MAT waste. The sturdy construction and airtight seal will keep your waste contained and safe from the environment. Plus, the handle makes it easy to move the can around, so you can easily transport it to a disposal site.
Whether you’re storing hazardous chemicals or simply want a reliable way to dispose of household waste, an ammo can is a great option.
27. Store Precious Metal and Coins
An ammo can is a great option for storing precious metal and coins. Ammo cans are airtight and watertight, so your metal and coins will be protected from the elements. They are also durable and stackable, so you can easily add to your collection over time.
28. Use as a Stove
An ammo can can easily be turned into a makeshift stove. Just punch a few holes in the bottom of the can and line it with rocks. Then build a fire on top of the rocks.
The heat will rise through the holes, providing you with a hot surface to cook on. Ammo cans can also be used to purify water. Simply fill the can with water and place it over a fire. The heat will cause the water to evaporate, leaving behind any impurities.
29. Store Grease and Lubricants
An ammo can is a great way to store grease and lubricants. The cans are airtight, which keeps the grease and lubricants from drying out. They are also waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about them rusting or corroding.
Ammo cans come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose the one that is right for your needs. You can also use an ammo can to store other items such as needles, syringes, and small tools.
When choosing an ammo can, be sure to select one that is made from high-quality materials. This will ensure that it will last for years to come.
30. Create an Emergency Fishing Kit
An ammo can is a great way to store everything you need for an emergency fishing kit. You can pack a variety of lures, hooks, and line into the can, as well as a small net and a first aid kit. The can itself can be used as a makeshift bait bucket, or turned over to use as a cutting board.
Best of all, an ammo can is watertight, so everything will stay dry in case you have to wade into a stream or lake to get to your fishing spot.
Final Thoughts
Ammo cans have a variety of survival uses. From food storage to protection from the elements, ammo cans can help you stay alive in a crisis situation. What other ways do you think an ammo can might be used for survival?
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All of my ammo is in cans, I’ve only a couple of the plastic kicking around. Even the large P124 cans are great for storage. In one, an AR fits with room to spare. This can is buried on the property.
Cans that are going to be exposed to the elements get some special treatment before. First, they’re filled with water and placed upside down for 24 hours to ensure the waterproof integrity is there. After drying, they’re bead blasted and cleaned to remove any rust or debris. Then primed inside and out with epoxy enamel (2 coats). After its cured, additional epoxy enamel in appropriate color or camo is applied (4 – 8 coats). If I’m using the can to store a firearm, the can is lined with 1/2″ closed cell foam to prevent damage to whatever is inside.
The “buried” can has been in the ground 8+ years. Every year I dig it out and check, and so far there has been no compromise of the can or its contents. The AR is seperated into upper and lower with each piece sealed in a gun bag. The bags contain a rust inhibitor. Magazines and ammo are sealed in heavy plastic pouches with a dessicant pack and as much air removed without creating a vacuum. No optic on the AR build, just sights, so no batteries to worry about for a scope or optic.
I’ve also have one of the 20mm cans in the ground with freeze dried meals inside. I check it yearly as well, but also look at expiration dates and rotate to combat the freshness issue.
There are a number of online vendors you can purchase cans from, if you can’t find them locally. Most of my larger cans came from Sportsmen’s Guide, as our local Surplus Store usually only has the .30 and .50 cans on hand. When you find a vendor, watch for the sales they have, BOGOs and free or reduced shipping are the times to buy.
Not that there’s anything wrong with plastic cans, but their longevity is a question. A couple of my cans are WW 2 era (they open from the long side rather than the more modern short side), but I’ve noticed the seals on those have small cracks, so they’re only used as storage for things that water wouldn’t ruin.
For larger gear, I use the MTM totes. The fact that they can be sealed and locked, makes them worth the few dollars more they cost than Rubbermaid totes.
You’re only limited by your imagination. Ammo Cans are great MacGyver projects. A good example of their integrity I noticed a few years back when my grandfather passed. Since I ended up inheriting his small collection of firearms and ammunition. In one can were boxes of .22LR dating from the 50’s and 60’s. This ammo still functions, though a few I’ve had mistrikes with, not as many as I thought I’d have. Using them in an old H&R revolver, about half of the mistrikes fired after a second strike. This is 60 to 70 year old rimfire ammo, stored in ammo cans and kept in a cool, dry environment. I was pleasantly surprised that it still functioned, as that was contrary to what I’d been led to believe. Ammo cans are a great storage system for preppers.
You can also buy them at gun shops or gun clubs. They sell the ammo and also the empty cans.
Harbor Freight stores have metal 50 cal. ammo cans and smaller plastic ammo cans. They are online if there isn’t a store nearby.
Real need might be DRY SOCKS & Underwear.
Can they be used as small faraday cages or do they have holes?
Yes, they can definitely be used as Faraday cages. Check out this article: http://readynutrition.com/resources/build-your-own-faraday-cage-out-of-an-ammo-can_01032016/
Alan’s spot on. I’ve a 20mm can set up as a Faraday cage using the instructions from the link he provided. Our radios, GPS, a Portable DVD player and a couple of watches/clocks are kept in there should an EMP hit.
Most of the materials you need to do the project are available on Amazon. A few, I actually found at Guitar Center, as musicians use many of the same components to shield their electric guitars from RF interference and AC Cycle hum.
where can i buy one of the old metal ammo cans? i can only find the plastic ones anymore. even on amazon 🙁
Look for army surplus stores in your area. Call around and ask if they have any.
Truprep Store in Marietta GA has a room full of several different sizes of surplus metal cans.
Wal-Mart sporting goods
Harbor Freight carries both the plastic and metal ammo cans. Plastic are about 1/2 the size of the metal ammo cans.