Leaving ammunition in a hot car is a risky proposition, and the question of whether it can explode is a crucial one for gun owners and anyone who might unexpectedly find themselves in this situation. The short answer is: it's unlikely to explode in the traditional sense, but it can degrade and become dangerous. Let's delve deeper into the specifics.
Understanding the Risks of Heat on Ammunition
Ammunition isn't designed to withstand extreme temperatures. While it won't likely detonate like a stick of dynamite, prolonged exposure to high heat can lead to several serious problems:
1. Primer Degradation:
The primer is the small, sensitive component at the base of a cartridge that ignites the gunpowder. Heat can cause the primer's chemical compounds to degrade. This can lead to:
- Misfires: The primer might fail to ignite the gunpowder when fired, rendering the round useless.
- Accidental Discharges: In more severe cases, the primer might become unstable and sensitive enough to detonate spontaneously from impact or even slight pressure. This is a dangerous situation that could cause injury or death.
2. Powder Deterioration:
Gunpowder, the propellant that sends the bullet down the barrel, is also susceptible to heat damage. Excessive heat can:
- Increase Pressure: Degraded powder can burn faster and hotter than intended, leading to increased chamber pressure. This can damage your firearm and potentially cause injury.
- Reduce Reliability: The weaker, less consistent burn may result in inconsistent projectile velocity and accuracy.
3. Case Expansion:
The metallic casing of the cartridge can expand due to heat. This can make it difficult to extract from the firearm's chamber, potentially causing malfunctions. In extreme cases, this expansion could lead to a case rupture during firing.
Factors Influencing the Risk
Several factors determine the level of risk associated with leaving ammo in a hot car:
- Temperature: The higher the temperature, the greater the risk of degradation. A car's interior can easily reach dangerously high temperatures, especially on a hot summer day.
- Type of Ammunition: Certain types of ammunition might be more susceptible to heat damage than others. This includes older ammunition or certain types of powder.
- Duration of Exposure: The longer the ammunition is exposed to high heat, the greater the risk of damage.
- Storage: The manner in which the ammunition is stored (loose in a bag, or in a case) can affect how it's impacted by the heat. A well-ventilated container may offer slightly better protection.
Safe Ammunition Storage Practices
To ensure the safety and reliability of your ammunition, always store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A dedicated ammunition safe or a locked gun cabinet are ideal storage solutions. Never leave ammunition in a vehicle, especially during hot weather.
Conclusion
While a catastrophic explosion of ammunition in a hot car is relatively unlikely, the potential for primer and powder degradation, leading to misfires, accidental discharges, and firearm damage, is very real and dangerous. Always prioritize safe ammunition storage practices to protect yourself, others, and your firearms. Remember, the risk is not worth the convenience of leaving your ammo in a hot car.
