Primer lifespan in box?

[clay_shooter]

I bought three boxes (500 each) of CCI small pistol primers in 1994 because I was sure I was going to have to start reloading to be able to shoot. That never happened.

They've been sitting in the bottom of my toolbox since then. Do they go bad? I'm pretty sure I shouldn't hit them with a hammer to test them.

 

[GNLaFrance]

As long as they're kept in their original packaging, in a dry, clement storage area, they'll still be good long after you and I have shuffled off this mortal coil.

 

[jimbobborg]

What he said. I've used old primers from 1989 a couple of years ago, still went bang.

 

[Robert Avery]

Like what they said. Primers will be here and work if kept dry and away from sunlight. I store mine in a old refrigerator which works great as it keeps moisture out and is almost airtight.

 

[Rockzilla]

I have a few CCI-200's and 400's from "81" all still go bang that I have used.

-Rock

 

[Uncle Duke]

No contact with oils/solvents in your toolbox? If not they should be fine.

 

[HappyCamper]

I'm pretty sure I shouldn't hit them with a hammer to test them.

Lol... why not?