Keeping your reloading supplies organized and storing them properly is a must-do for safety and optimal equipment performance. It’s also a great way to avoid mix ups that could lead to potentially dangerous mistakes. 

Humid conditions can cause a variety of problems for your ammunition and powder, especially in extreme cases. Experienced reloaders have seen humidity impact everything from powder clumping to changes in bullet velocity. 

Keep Your Ammunition and Powder in Airtight Containers 

The simplest way to keep your ammunition and powder in the best possible condition is to store it in airtight containers. This keeps out moisture which could cause corrosion, and it also helps prevent dust from settling on the powder. 

A little bit of humidity is good for reloading because it can help prevent static electricity sparks, but too much moisture can degrade powders and primers. High humidity paired with large temperature swings can also cause them to perform inconsistently, which is why it's important to store your reloading supplies in a climate controlled environment. 

It's also a good idea to separate your reloading components by caliber. This helps avoid mix-ups that can be dangerous, such as using a 300 Blackout cartridge in a gun designed for a 9mm. Organizing your storage areas with clear bins and labeled containers can make it easy to keep things separated and find them quickly when you need them. 

Keep Your Die and Press Clean 

The best way to ensure your reloading supplies stay safe and in good working condition is to keep them clean and lubricated. This includes cleaning all dies before and after each use, lubricating the press arm with a lightweight oil or grease, and regularly inspecting your press components for wear and tear that can impact performance. 

While a garage or basement might seem like a convenient storage location, these areas can become too warm and humid to protect your equipment from humidity damage. Instead, opt for a cool and dry area that is free from large temperature fluctuations and humidity. 

Additionally, storing your supplies in airtight containers with moisture-absorbing packets and keeping them in a dedicated workspace further reduces the likelihood of mix-ups that can lead to dangerous mistakes during reloading sessions. This also enables you to easily find and grab the supplies you need, boosting your overall efficiency and safety. Using clear bins and labels to segregate powders, primers, and casings further helps you stay organized.

Apply the Right Lubricant 

Many experienced reloaders will tell you that humidity plays a big role in affecting their process. It has been reported that high humidity causes powder clumping, changes in burn rates and other issues that affect accuracy and safety. Taking precautions to keep your workspace clean and dry can help you avoid these problems. 

It is also important to apply the proper lubricant to your equipment. This prevents metal-to-metal contact and minimizes the risk of corrosion. There are several different types of lubricants available and different ways to apply them. For example, you can roll cases on a lube pad or use a spray-on lubricant. It’s also a good idea to lubricate your dies and presses on a regular basis. 

Maintaining your reloading supplies properly can extend their lifespan and improve performance and efficiency. By following these basic maintenance tips, you can protect your investments and enjoy this rewarding hobby for years to come. Be sure to clean up spills promptly and regularly inspect your equipment for signs of wear and tear. 

Inspect Your Equipment Regularly 

Inspecting equipment regularly ensures that all issues are spotted before they escalate into costly repairs or a serious accident. This is especially important for high-risk items such as power tools, vehicles, machinery, and scaffolding. 

A comprehensive inspection checklist covers various aspects of equipment, including safety protocols, potential hazards, and fluid levels. These can be tailored to specific equipment types, and include pre-start checklists, warm-up checklists, and shutdown checklists. Keeping these inspections consistent, using the right tools, and following best practices can increase equipment productivity, reduce risk of workplace injuries, and extend the lifespan of equipment. 

A good inspection system can help you streamline and automate these essential processes, allowing your team to focus on more pressing matters. Request a demo of Record360, the leading digital inspection solution, to see how it can help you take your inspections to the next level. This will ensure you never miss an opportunity to keep your operations safe and productive.