Do bullets get too old?

[Lou270]

Always wondered this, so thought I'd ask the bullet makers... Do bullets get old? I have some old bullets of various manufacture (some I would bet over 30 years old) that I picked up at gun shows every now and then, including some noslers and was wondering if bullets age to the point where they will not perform in the way they were designed for some reason. If they do get old, what is the shelf life? I'm specifically referring to bullets designed for big game hunting (i.e. "controlled expansion of some sort, whether through jacket thickness cup & core, bonding, or Partition).

-Lou

 

[JD338]

Lou,

So long as the bullets have been stored in a cool dry place, you shouldn't have any problems. Corrosion could have an effect on the accuracy of the bullets.
Personally, I would use the older bullets for punching paper and buy the latest version for hunting. Manufactures will make improvement changes to their products and in the case of bullets, better accuracy and on game performance can be gained by using new bullets. If you are looking to save some money, you might want to consider using Nosler seconds. These bullets are of the latest manufacturing spec. I am currently shooting 160 gr AB seconds in my 280 AI and getting .25" groups! I have used seconds in both BT and PT for hunting the last 5-6 years with excellent results.

Regards,

JD338

 

[LoneStar]

Actually, bullets can change their properties over time, even without corrosion. Some bullet jackets are highly stressed during forming, and over the years their temper can change - along with expansion characteristics. Some lead alloys do lose hardness over time - cast bullet shooters are aware of this. So I'd agree, shoot old bullets at paper and rocks, but buy new bullets for hunting.