I've been integrating the use of surplus military ammo containers into my survival prep. I always inspect them at the store before purchase. I make sure to open the can: if it "hisses" as the air pressure inside and outside the can are equalized, then I know the seal is still good. Otherwise I don't purchase it.
That leads to a couple of questions.
I've heard that you should never use Vaseline on the seal to preserve it because the chemicals in Vaseline actually deteriorate the seal over time. Is this true? Should anything be used to preserve the seal?
Another question. I'm assuming that because these cans are made to protect the ammunition from the weather in the field that weather won't make the seal deteriorate. Simply put: can I leave my ammo or other items in one of those ammo cans in the hot truck all day without worrying that the summer heat will damage the seal?
I've been told over the years that whenever you put something in one of those containers to put a packet of desiccant in with your items. If you fill your ammo can to the top like I do is there really enough room left in it for enough moisture to be trapped with your items to ruin them?
Should I open the cans and inspect the contents every few months or years, or once a can is sealed is it better to leave it sealed?
Assuming a can started out with a good seal, is there a rule of thumb that after so many years you should replace the gasket?
If so, where can replacement gaskets be obtained?
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