Collector ammo

[pmanton]

I like to collect boxed ammo for my firearms.
For example, A box of 1898 .38 for my S&W SA model 2, .WW-2 45 ACP for my 1911A1 etc.

My problem is that I cannot resist opening the sealed boxes.
The boxes call to me "Open me, look at me."

Do others share this problem, or am I weird?

 

[30-30remchester]

Have collected antique ammo for 60 years now. Many unopened boxes. Most boxes can be opened without any signs if done properly. Besides boxed ammo, I also collect singles. I have a box of WW2, 22 long rifles, made for the US government that is still in a sealed foil wrapper. This is full metal jacket ammo to meet the Hauge Conventions guideline for military ammo. My problem is, I don't have a single round to fondle and add to my singles collection. I have stared at that box for years. It is mocking me.

 

[s&wchad]

If the boxes have end flaps that can be opened without any damage, I check out the shells/cartridges. Then I wrap the boxes with shrink film (window insulation plastic sheeting) and hit it with a heat lamp.

If the boxes are sealed with paper labels, I wrap them and don't look inside.

 

[Rudi]

I love collecting old/odd ammo.

 

[desi2358]

If a box is sealed I prefer to leave it sealed. If I want a loose example I can usually find an opened box, sometimes takes some searching if it's an odd one but usually can be found.

 

[tom2]

I once inherited some old antique loose ammo and bought a coffee can of loose old rounds at a gunshow. Just for interest, not for an actual formal collection. I have not really wanted to spend large sums for a full box of antique ammo. For instance I have a 19th century revolver that fires .32 rimfire and I acquired one round to go with it, just to show what it used.

 

[30-30remchester]

As stated above, I collect both singles and boxes. This has got me thinking. I have scads of oddball singles and wondering if a trade network could be formed for those who are looking for some singles to top off boxes and add singles to collections. As stated, I would like to have a few to a box of full metal jacket 22 long rifles. Made by Remington for the war effort. They have model numbers either M-24 or T-42. One of the real killers is shipping.

 

[chief38]

Open the box carefully, handle the ammo inside carefully, then close the box carefully. When you go to sell it, the buyer will open it carefully to inspect and verify the contents anyway, so as long as you are careful... I see no harm done to lower its value. Remember.... do everything carefully (maybe even wear a new pair of cotton inspection gloves)!