BLACK POWDER STORAGE

[bpd303]

I store small amounts in the powder horns or flasks in the house. The bulk of my powder is in the unattached garage in original containers and cardboard boxes. I probably have 25 or so pounds stored that way. Some of the containers were passed down to me from my grandfather mostly 4f priming powder which is at least 70 years old. Never any problems with it going boom.

 

[Tenring]

I keep BP in there plastic containers and then in a box for the reason it would just flash if there were a problem not go boom, but as for caps I keep bulk in Seal A Meal Bags with air sucked out .

 

[FishDFly]

Seems folks are always concerned about storing their BP, but do not worry about flammables and combustibles in their living spaces.

Wonder why?

 

[smo]

Powder? What powder??
Actually empty cans….some metal, some plastic

 

[Todd T]

My large amounts i store in a shipping container next to the shop in plastic coolers. In the house smaller amounts are in the basement in coolers. Insures that everything stays dry, even in the event of burst pipe or flooding. Also keeps the temperature swings to a minimum for outdoor storage. Plus in the event of fire the lids won't contain the gasses.
Todd

 

[smoothshooter]

How a bout some input on storing powder? I have several pounds of powder in my basement.cool, dehumidifer runs 24-7 It's in a explosion proof steel box with four heavy latches. I'm told by an oldtimer that it was used in the navy for big ships cannon. I wan't to relocate the box to a building that has no ventilation in summer,and portable heater in winter months. Will it store well? no chance of degredition in this enviromental storage? I have several pounds of powder, enough to last me till I pass over. Don't want to take a chance if it's the wrong thing to do. Also how a bout caps? will they hold up in this environment? I appreciate any input and forsite you may offer.

Do not store in a heavy, solid container. In a fire, the strength of the powder storage chest will cause more pressure to build up before letting go. Especially with black powder, detonation will be magnified like a big bomb.
A lightly constructed wood or sheet metal container is safer.