how to dispose of old ammunition in california

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This creates a real safety hazard and it is also not eco-friendly. Whether its old, corroding ammunition, or rounds that wouldnt fire at the range, ammunition is one thing that needs to be disposed of carefully and properly. I've always disposed of mine downrange before I sell the last gun in that caliber :-). Shell casings may be reused to make more bullets, or the metal could be melted down and used for something else. Yes and no. If it was old ammo (that really, really needed to be destroyed due to years past its shelf life), it could be placed into a bucket filled with water and let it sit for a month, two months or longer. Learn More! To register for an appointment call the City's hazardous waste contractor (Clean Harbors) at (800) 433-5060 or send an email request to VSQG@cleanharbors.com . Additionally, problems with factory ammunition may indicate a larger problem with the entire batch produced. Most garbage trucks have a compactor, which could set off ammunition dumped in with the other household garbage and potentially harm equipment or people nearby. Address. We have a for sell section so you might want to think about using calguns.There are plenty of folks here in California that will enjoy your guns. Your advise is greatly appreciated. This post was originally published on January 16, 2018. Any quality gun range should have a plan for dangerous or discarded rounds, probably involving local law enforcement or a recycling company. Must remove at least inch of metal per cut Must be made at angles and completely sever the receiver in at least 3 critical locations (specified by model) Acceptable method of destruction is to completely melt (smelt), shred or crush the firearm receiver. I have been told that may not be possible. If you'd like to learn more about guns, check out our in-depth interview with Bryan Villella. Treated Wood Waste or TWW, is no longer accepted at OC Landfills. Ammunition can be surprisingly resilient. The primer is located on the bottom of the casing, the gunpowder is inside the casing, and the bullet is sticking out the other end of the casing. They may contract with a hazardous waste company or other licensed provider that's equipped to handle unique waste such as ammo. For tips on disposal/recycling of flares, visit here or the California Department of Toxic Substance Control (CDTSC) at (800) 728-6942. California retailers can take mattresses for free when purchasing a new one. If you have old, compromised, or otherwise unusable ammo you need to get rid of, it's best to stick to the previously mentioned methods of safe ammo disposal. Use 911 only for emergencies!). By using our site, you agree to our. Oil and Water and Ammunition Don't Mix Another common piece of advice recommends soaking old ammunition in water or motor oil for several days before tossing it in the trash. The brass casing is recyclable, so after a round has been fired at the range, this portion can be recycled. As long as ammo has been stored in a cool and dry place and was not exposed to high humidity, then it will remain viable for many years. If you're in Montgomery County, you probably aren't that far from Delaware County Field and Stream. legally you can take it to your local police station. While its not illegal to throw away bullets in most areas, you still shouldnt do it because its so dangerous. This is a clear sign of deterioration that can make the ammo unsafe to use. Recycle batteries with a retailer or take to an OC Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center. These inexpensive tools effortlessly disassemble a cartridge. #9. According to SAAMI, these sources can provide you the means to dispose of ammunition in compliance with local, state, and federal law. Usually, only those in close proximity to the cartridge when it detonates are at risk of injury. If you are a gun owner, you will eventually come across cartridges you dont want to risk shooting. Dont just show up with your misfit rounds, however. It is important to know the seven signs of "bad" ammo: Bent bullet or bent case. And intended purpose. Call the non-emergency number of the police to let them know you need to dispose of ammunition. Chances are pretty good that Grandpas old ammunition is perfectly fine. The next few guns. How To Find Ammo (& Reloading Supplies) During Shortage. Even if your old cartridges are corroded, most of the components can still be reused. He prioritizes safety and building comfortable environments for people to learn skills safely. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If your ammunition has any age to it, and especially if it is still in its original packaging, it may have some historical significance. We will routinely monitor external sites linked from our pages. First, youll need to get your hands on a kinetic puller. You can simply toss the gunpowder in your houseplants or your backyard garden. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Development (1-800-267-8376) can provide information on export permit requirements. We educate and inform consumers, businesses and communities to inspire thought and facilitate earth-positive consumer decisions. If you decide to go the police route, there are a couple things to keep in mind. You must have the right tools and be willing to learn how to identify rounds that are in the right condition for reloading. Usually, an officer will secure the ammo before they bring it in to make sure everyone is safe. You must be at least . Message and data rates may apply. The more we all know, the better organized and stronger the shooting and hunting community will be. Contact Local Law Enforcement. Whether a landfill or other type of facility, it's probably not equipped to handle ammunition as a waste product. However, I recommend you only give ammo to someone knowledgeable about ammunition and firearms. If the casing on older ammunition has deteriorated, it can become volatile. This is another great option for . If the box gets damaged, put them in a container with a secure lid. To be safe, never use a tool that's not intended for bullets to try this. Therefore, here are the top 3 ways people dispose of ammo that are not safe. If these items are used, stored, or disposed of improperly, you, your pets, or the environment can be injured. Take the powder you wish to dispose of and pour it in a straight line on your sidewalk. (707) 259-8608 or 1-800-984-9661 Friday & Saturday 9am - 4pm Households: No appointment required, drop-off free of charge. We'll even tell you what not to do with it so you can be as safe as possible. Additionally, make sure they are legally allowed to possess ammunition. Therefore, you can dispose of ammunition at these locations. You can also schedule a household hazardous waste pickup using the Folsom Waste Collection App. Many of the disposal suggestions youll find online are actually dangerous, illegal, or both. For details, check here. Oftentimes the hazmat offices are only open on select days. Therefore, an in-person return is your best option. Even shipping it (there are some regulations to know about this though) is legal. Safety Instructions Please follow these important safety instructions: Make sure your firearm (s) are unloaded. Brass casings can be reused a number of times. However, if you are unfamiliar or uncomfortable around ammunition, I do not recommend this method. You're right about storage conditions and shelf life. Go to the beach, build a big bonfire.. for every box factory you sell give 1 box reloaded for free. I would like to safely dispose. Those I set aside for their collected value. If they dont collect it there, make sure you check their collection events. The metals can each be recycled, and the gunpowder can be reused as fertilizer. Find a Location to Recycle or Dispose of Safely. OC Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers, California Department of Toxic Substance Control (CDTSC). First is to call your local waste management service provider. Give it away, some reloaded will tear it down for comPonents. Home electronics, cell phones and some digital appliances can go to an OC Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center. Always make sure you have your driver's license or some form of identification with you. Appointments can be made by calling 530-583-7800. He leads certified training courses necessary to get licensed through the state to work in the private security field. the unsubscribe link (where available) in one of our messages. Copyright Ammotogo.com 2023 All Rights Reserved. Locals told The New Indian Express newspaper that earlier, when huts in the area were made of bamboo and grass, the elephant caused little damage when he came foraging for food. If the bullet sits at a funny angle or the primer isnt correctly seated, or the crimp looks wrong, that isnt a cartridge you want to risk firing. If your local hazardous waste facility doesnt work, the next place to check is local gun ranges. If there is liquid or if it's attached to a battery, dispose at a HHWCC. They might offer to help you safely dispose of old ammo. Most private gun clubs have boxes of obsolete ammo that they keep just for folks to poke through and shoot up. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. 550 Charles E. Young Dr. West Los Angeles, CA 90095 Thursday - Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (E-Waste accepted on Saturday only) Randall Street Location 11025 Randall St. Sun Valley, CA 91352 Balboa Boulevard Location 10241 N. Balboa Blvd. When it comes to hand loaded rounds, you can usually tell when something is off. Private party ammunition sales are completely legal. The lead found in many bullets should not be stuck in the ground where it can leach into the local water supply. Local gun ranges will sometimes collect dud rounds or unused ammunition and dispose of them properly. Check here for information. For tips and more information, check here. If they do, we have a few safe and legal options for ditching those rounds you just dont want to risk shooting. The oil will get in and destroy the powder . wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This guide shows you a few ways to dispose of ammo safely. If they do not offer this service, they can direct you where you can go in your local area to safely dispose of corroded ammo. In my area, the trash is incinerated, and I have been getting complaints about the primers popping when they load the trash into the incinerator. Dont call 911; call their local number and ask if theyll take ammunition. the good news is that you have several options for getting rid of that old ammo that is no longer fit for use. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Regardless of which of these methods that you choose for the disposal of your old, corroded ammo, the most important thing is that you are disposing of it in a safe and approved manner. Then it could be buried (if city/county ordinance did not prevent) , never to be dealt with again. Understand that the procedures involved vary by department and locale, so check your local department's website to see if any specifics are listed and call before you take any action if instructions aren't available online. Bag it or wrap the mixture and place in the trash. Corroded Casing and Bullet from Water Damage. Manage unusable assembled ammunition as a hazardous waste. Most of the time, as long as it was stored correctly, it is actually safe to use old ammo. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Lastly, dont soak it in water or oil and then throw it away. Consent is not a condition of any purchase. Loaded ammo only deteriorates when exposed to moisture. OC Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers can accept road flares.OPTIONS:Call your local police station or sheriff department for ammunition or gun take back days. But how do you dispose of old ammo safely? 20 years is nothing for ammo, unless its covered in corrosion! I want to reregister it in California so that I can conceal carry this pistol( I am retired from lapd with a ccw. Another thing that you should never do is to throw your old ammo away in a regular trash can. So, whether it's setting up and maintaining your EDC bag, laws on concealed carry, or refining your medical kit we tackle the hard questions. Period. 2. It's more important than ever. If you have a large amount of ammunition, however, they may not. Ammunition Rifle & Pistol Ranges Gun Safety & Marksmanship Instruction. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. As gun owners, we want to be sure we act responsibly, especially when it comes to disposing of our unwanted ammunition. Bryan Villella is the Lead Firearms Instructor and Owner of Don't Be A Sitting Duck in Kissimmee, Florida. Surrender them to your local police station. Working power tools can be donated. You might also ask about ammo disposal at indoor ranges. There are a lot of reasons why you might find yourself in the possession of old ammunition. While gun buybacks are an option for disposing of your unwanted firearms, they don't happen every day. If you go to the range, you might take the ammo with you on your next visit to see if theyll accept it. A collaborative effort provided by:County . First, a cartridge does not cease working because you decide you no longer want it. OC Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers do not accept ammunition, explosives, marine flares or fireworks. Its okay to throw away brass casings from spent bullets after youve fired them. E-bike batteries can be disposed of at OC's Household Hazardous Waste Collection Centers. As a firearms facility, gun stores handle a lot of ammunition. They will often be willing to send an officer to your location to pick it up. Simply provide the ammunition to the front desk or range safety officer for disposal. Perhaps youve got unusable ammo laying around that you want to dispose of or recycle. You also should not throw ammunition away in the trash. NO Explosives or ammunition (includes marine flares) Non-empty aerosols. Thank you Bob. While this may not work if you have a large number of corroded rounds, if you just have a few, they may be willing to accept them. Researchers at the University of Massachusetts-Dartmouths Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE)created a prototype of a device that can disassemble cartridges into their component parts for recycling. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Whether you're completely new to gun ownership and shooting or a seasoned pro, at some point you'll likely encounter ammunition that can't be shot. We send you a box If you are selling or donating, we include a shipping label and instructions on how to pack your unwanted firearm. They might even pay you for them. Bicycle tires and inner tubing should not be thrown in your curbside trash or recycle bins. The bullet is typically made of lead but could be another type of metal or cased in another type of metal. Businesses may also dispose of hazardous materials on the third Friday of each month for a fee and with appointments. Leftover cleaning products, pesticides, flammable or poisonous garden products can go to an OC Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center. However, not everything you hear on the internet is true, especially when it comes to ammo and firearms. Instead, people interested in surrendering their weapons are asked to call the OPP non-emergency. Depending on the area you live in, it may be a municipal operation or it could be a private company, or perhaps a private company that contracts with your local government. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Some people will even claim the powder can be used in fertilizer. Since this ammo was stored in a cool, dark environment during those 50 odd years, it serves to illustrate that conditions were optimal and a prime factor in the ammo longevity. I decided to limit the old ammo to use in one of my revolvers, because I suspected there would be failures to fire. If you are not planning on shooting or keeping any of your guns for protection or recreation, selling them would be a great idea. In any case, ask them about disposing of ammunition as it is typically done under the auspices of hazardous waste. Several crates broke open - exposing the munitions. Another option that we recommend when you are looking to safely dispose of old ammo is to get ahold of your local shooting range. Police stations will also sometimes accept small amounts of ammunition. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Kinetic pullers are generally safe, but trying to separate bullets with other tools can be dangerous. If it is a small department, they . Some alarms and detectors contain radioactive materials requiring proper disposal. You can also dispose of ammo in a hazardous waste facility or at a hazardous waste collection event. Recommendations for EPA Regional Offices on Preliminary Assessments and Site Inspections for the Department of Defense Military Munitions Response Program (OSWER Directive 9200.3-60) - April 5, 2010. Develop the tech skills you need for work and life. Bullets are made of lead which can seep into the soil. When all else fails, you can dispose of ammunition by unloading it on a friend. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Dispose-of-Old-Ammo-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Dispose-of-Old-Ammo-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Dispose-of-Old-Ammo-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Dispose-of-Old-Ammo-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"