Powder/Primer Storage - Legalities and Solutions

[DHC]

With kids in the home, the question of safe (and legal) storage of powder and primers has been on my mind lately.

First addressing legalities, I found that SAAMI publishes two relevant brochures:

* Smokeless Powder: Properties and Storage, Link here --> http://www.saami.org/specifications_and_information/publications/download/SAAMI_ITEM_200-Smokeless_Powder.pdf, and
* Sporting Ammunition Primers: Properties, Handling & Safe Storage for Handloading, Link here --> http://www.saami.org/specifications_and_information/publications/download/SAAMI_ITEM_201-Primers.pdf

In those documents are references to the National Fire Protection Association publication 495 chapter 11, applicable here. In summary, there are published guidelines for specialized storage requirements in residences when the quantities exceed:

* 20 pounds of smokeless powder (less than 20 pounds may be stored in original containers)
* 10,000 primers. In fact, as I read the code, it places a firm upper limit on the total number of primers that may be stored in residences to 10,000. Reference paragraph 11-5.4.

Apparently most/many municipalities have adopted ordinances that codify the guidelines contained in the NFPA Guidelines (I'll be checking the local ordinances here to be sure). Further, many insurance companies require compliance with local ordinances in order to pay on any claims.

The powder storage guidelines can be met, albeit with some effort and expense in building (or buying) storage cabinets to their specifications. The primer limitation, however, seems a potentially serious issue. 10,000 primers is not very many.

How are you guys addressing this? Is my understanding correct - and if so, doesn't it represent a serious risk if there is ever a house fire? I don't mean a risk due to primer/powder explosion, I mean the risk that the insurance company will deny any claims if they find local ordinances were not followed - even if those violations had little, or nothing, to do with the actual cause of the claim.

I am curious as to how others have addressed this and the solutions.

ETA: It looks like there is a maximum amount of powder allowed to be stored in private residences as well - that limit being 50 pounds.

[Great-Kazoo]

With kids in the home, the question of safe (and legal) storage of powder and primers has been on my mind lately.

First addressing legalities, I found that SAAMI publishes two relevant brochures:

* Smokeless Powder: Properties and Storage, Link here --> http://www.saami.org/specifications_and_information/publications/download/SAAMI_ITEM_200-Smokeless_Powder.pdf, and
* Sporting Ammunition Primers: Properties, Handling & Safe Storage for Handloading, Link here --> http://www.saami.org/specifications_and_information/publications/download/SAAMI_ITEM_201-Primers.pdf

In those documents are references to the National Fire Protection Association publication 495 chapter 11, applicable here. In summary, there are published guidelines for specialized storage requirements in residences when the quantities exceed:

* 20 pounds of smokeless powder (less than 20 pounds may be stored in original containers)
* 10,000 primers. In fact, as I read the code, it places a firm upper limit on the total number of primers that may be stored in residences to 10,000. Reference paragraph 11-5.4.

Apparently most/many municipalities have adopted ordinances that codify the guidelines contained in the NFPA Guidelines (I'll be checking the local ordinances here to be sure). Further, many insurance companies require compliance with local ordinances in order to pay on any claims.

The powder storage guidelines can be met, albeit with some effort and expense in building (or buying) storage cabinets to their specifications. The primer limitation, however, seems a potentially serious issue. 10,000 primers is not very many.

How are you guys addressing this? Is my understanding correct - and if so, doesn't it represent a serious risk if there is ever a house fire? I don't mean a risk due to primer/powder explosion, I mean the risk that the insurance company will deny any claims if they find local ordinances were not followed - even if those violations had little, or nothing, to do with the actual cause of the claim.

I am curious as to how others have addressed this and the solutions.

ETA: It looks like there is a maximum amount of powder allowed to be stored in private residences as well - that limit being 50 pounds.

1" thick wood storage cabinets, with wheels on them for ease of relocation. I'm buying off CL used kitchen cabinets (already 1/2") and adding another layer of 3/4" wood to it. I don't store any reloading components in the home, so that's not a concern. The shop is approx 75' from home , closest building is next door and not a residence. I was looking at adding a fire suppression system, like security systems, for lower ins premiums.

[BlasterBob]

The original post doesn't cover the storage of BLACK POWDER. Lot of muzzle loader shooters have a few pounds of this stuff and what are the precautions for storing that VERY explosive stuff??

[DHC]

The original post doesn't cover the storage of BLACK POWDER. Lot of muzzle loader shooters have a few pounds of this stuff and what are the precautions for storing that VERY explosive stuff??

Good point. I don't load using real black powder, only an occasional BP substitute (treated the same as smokeless powder). I did find that CA has laws pertaining to smokeless and black powder and they equate one pound of black powder with 50 pounds of smokeless. I also found some OSHA regulations that offer guidance --> http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_id=9755&p_table=STANDARDS, but I am not sure how binding OSHA regs are for private individuals in their residences.

[Great-Kazoo]

The original post doesn't cover the storage of BLACK POWDER. Lot of muzzle loader shooters have a few pounds of this stuff and what are the precautions for storing that VERY explosive stuff??

Same wood storage


Good point. I don't load using real black powder, only an occasional BP substitute (treated the same as smokeless powder). I did find that CA has laws pertaining to smokeless and black powder and they equate one pound of black powder with 50 pounds of smokeless. I also found some OSHA regulations that offer guidance --> http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_id=9755&p_table=STANDARDS, but I am not sure how binding OSHA regs are for private individuals in their residences.

This is not CA and OSHA is for Work / business. Not a private individual. You let osha in to anyone's home and get the check book out, be it the improperly stored garden hose, to power equipment unsecured where minors are.

[DHC]

This is not CA and OSHA is for Work / business. Not a private individual. You let osha in to anyone's home and get the check book out, be it the improperly stored garden hose, to power equipment unsecured where minors are.

Acknowledged on both points. The CA reference was merely to provide some indication of the comparative 'dangers' of the two classifications of powder. The LAST thing I care to do is hold CA up as any kind of example, however, in the absence of any other reference source, at least it provides a data point.

[jerrymrc]

We have talked about this before but one thing I will say is that if you ask your local fire dept you will get a deer in the headlights look and one of those "So how much ya got?" replies.
SAAMI publishes two relevant brochures And just like the items if referances;
No more than 10,000 primers may be displayed in a commercial establishment Means that every gun shop is in violation. 10K of primers is two little boxes of 5K each.


Apparently most/many municipalities have adopted ordinances that codify the guidelines contained in the NFPA Guidelines (I'll be checking the local ordinances here to be sure). Further, many insurance companies require compliance with local ordinances in order to pay on any claims.

Good luck finding them and once again when you ask about them be prepared for the "How much ya got?" I spent a few days searching and calling years ago and gave up after being asked again and again. Please do report back to us on your experience.[Flower]

I myself am comfortable with my storage as nothing is perfect other than having your own little igloo out in the back 40. My garage is scarier than my reloading room. [LOL][panic]

[buckshotbarlow]

you can store them in my house...but they might not make it back to your place...

[Great-Kazoo]

Acknowledged on both points. The CA reference was merely to provide some indication of the comparative 'dangers' of the two classifications of powder. The LAST thing I care to do is hold CA up as any kind of example, however, in the absence of any other reference source, at least it provides a data point.

You want a more specific answer call one of the local reloading supply shops and see what they do. ANY DATA FROM CA IS #$%^&. They are circumventing gun laws buy using an EPA tactic to outlaw sales, possession of Lead ammo. [Bang]


We have talked about this before but one thing I will say is that if you ask your local fire dept you will get a deer in the headlights look and one of those "So how much ya got?" replies. And just like the items if referances; Means that every gun shop is in violation. 10K of primers is two little boxes of 5K each.



Good luck finding them and once again when you ask about them be prepared for the "How much ya got?" I spent a few days searching and calling years ago and gave up after being asked again and again. Please do report back to us on your experience.[Flower]

I myself am comfortable with my storage as nothing is perfect other than having your own little igloo out in the back 40. My garage is scarier than my reloading room. [LOL][panic]

MY FD was like ??????????? As long as they're stored correctly no problem, was the final answer. When i did a change of electrical svc to the house. No sch40 was in stock, so my sparky says to the power guys. We're using schd ?? will that work? The inspector, and power co mgr, look at the service guy and say, If he's good with it we are.

[DHC]

You want a more specific answer call one of the local reloading supply shops and see what they do. ANY DATA FROM CA IS #$%^&. They are circumventing gun laws buy using an EPA tactic to outlaw sales, possession of Lead ammo. [Bang]



MY FD was like ??????????? As long as they're stored correctly no problem, was the final answer. When i did a change of electrical svc to the house. No sch40 was in stock, so my sparky says to the power guys. We're using schd ?? will that work? The inspector, and power co mgr, look at the service guy and say, If he's good with it we are.

Jim,

My OP intended to seek clarification on two issues, safety and legality, in the context of storing primers and powders in a private residence. A question to the local reloading supply shop *might* be helpful in terms of the safety issue, but doubtful they would be knowledgeable about laws pertaining to private residence storage.

What I've found interesting thus far is that no one has addressed the primer limitation issue. If my understanding is correct, then anyone storing more than 10,000 primers in their home is quite possibly violating the law and exposing themselves to possible insurance problems in the event of making a claim. Rather than address this directly, the responses so far seem more along the lines of ignoring the issue rather than understanding and confronting it, if needed. That surprises me a bit as it is inconsistent with my general impression of the members here.

I am still seeking information and will, indeed, be making calls to folks in the local FD and elsewhere. Should their questions turn intrusive and personal (as they are likely to do) that will be met with a professional and courteous notice that their questions are irrelevant to the requested information. As suggested upthread, I will report back if I learn anything worthwhile. In the meantime, I hope others who read this and are storing more than the maximum amounts of powder and/or primers will do their own research to conclude, as jerrymrc did, that they are comfortable with their own storage 'situation.'

[Great-Kazoo]

Jim,

My OP intended to seek clarification on two issues, safety and legality, in the context of storing primers and powders in a private residence. A question to the local reloading supply shop *might* be helpful in terms of the safety issue, but doubtful they would be knowledgeable about laws pertaining to private residence storage.

What I've found interesting thus far is that no one has addressed the primer limitation issue. If my understanding is correct, then anyone storing more than 10,000 primers in their home is quite possibly violating the law and exposing themselves to possible insurance problems in the event of making a claim. Rather than address this directly, the responses so far seem more along the lines of ignoring the issue rather than understanding and confronting it, if needed. That surprises me a bit as it is inconsistent with my general impression of the members here.

I am still seeking information and will, indeed, be making calls to folks in the local FD and elsewhere. Should their questions turn intrusive and personal (as they are likely to do) that will be met with a professional and courteous notice that their questions are irrelevant to the requested information. As suggested upthread, I will report back if I learn anything worthwhile. In the meantime, I hope others who read this and are storing more than the maximum amounts of powder and/or primers will do their own research to conclude, as jerrymrc did, that they are comfortable with their own storage 'situation.'


One place i would not call is your ins company. I'm comfortable with my storage, for now.

I would suggest Non static work mats, and grounding locators since you'll be in the house. If anyone in the family is sensitive to "odors" include an exhaust fan / vet.

http://www.alliantpowder.com/getting_started/safety/storage_handling.aspx#recommendations

This is interesting, a Metal lined "spark proof" "exceeds" BATF regs / specs $329 + S&H. But you can never put a price on safety. Might be the answer you're looking for.
http://www.cabelas.com/product/Lockable-Powder-Storage-Container/740225.uts

[jerrymrc]

What I've found interesting thus far is that no one has addressed the primer limitation issue. If my understanding is correct, then anyone storing more than 10,000 primers in their home is quite possibly violating the law and exposing themselves to possible insurance problems in the event of making a claim. Rather than address this directly, the responses so far seem more along the lines of ignoring the issue rather than understanding and confronting it, if needed. That surprises me a bit as it is inconsistent with my general impression of the members here.

I think the main reason is because when I was doing my research I never once thought about the number of primers. That thought comes because as a "Haz-mat" item primers and powder are looked at as the same. Until you brought it up I have always looked at both from a weight perspective and not a number.

I can put 50lbs of powder/primers on one ticket. 50lbs of primers is like 70-80,000 or more. I truly believe that when you start digging that you will find that the limitations that you have found in print mainly apply to a business. I do know about the powder limit "for display" that is out there but to be honest when it comes to the insurance issue I look at it as you have it or you don't.

Unless the point of ignition started at the storage site of ones powder and primers it would be a moot point IMO and we have many here in the industry that could chime in on this.

I like to think that common sense applies in that after ones house burns to the ground that some inspector would not be trying to count primers to get over 10,000 to deny a claim. I do not believe that most here are ignoring the issue but take a different look at it because I know I do.

Being one that has these items and also restores cars I have many items that are flammable. I also have taken precautions and have implemented fire control and prevention measures. There are only two outcomes at my place. A fire that is quickly put out and damage is minimal or it all burns to the ground. this has already been proven once here about 13 years ago by one of my children and his training after he screwed up worked and the damage was small.

You have found an issue that you want a black and white answer to and I am afraid that you will only find shades of grey. I wish you luck in your quest and please do give us updates on this.[Coffee]

[jerrymrc]

This is interesting, a Metal lined "spark proof" "exceeds" BATF regs / specs $329 + S&H. But you can never put a price on safety. Might be the answer you're looking for.

I have a Vidmar 3 drawer cabinet that is 14G steel and locks for my storage. It has enough gaps that I consider it "vented". Would not take much to make it "spark proof" and has about 6X the space. It was free. My primers are inside and in 30 cal cans as well. Good thing I saved 2 grand.[Flower]

[DHC]

I think the main reason is because when I was doing my research I never once thought about the number of primers. That thought comes because as a "Haz-mat" item primers and powder are looked at as the same. Until you brought it up I have always looked at both from a weight perspective and not a number.

I can put 50lbs of powder/primers on one ticket. 50lbs of primers is like 70-80,000 or more. I truly believe that when you start digging that you will find that the limitations that you have found in print mainly apply to a business. I do know about the powder limit "for display" that is out there but to be honest when it comes to the insurance issue I look at it as you have it or you don't.

Unless the point of ignition started at the storage site of ones powder and primers it would be a moot point IMO and we have many here in the industry that could chime in on this.

I like to think that common sense applies in that after ones house burns to the ground that some inspector would not be trying to count primers to get over 10,000 to deny a claim. I do not believe that most here are ignoring the issue but take a different look at it because I know I do.

Being one that has these items and also restores cars I have many items that are flammable. I also have taken precautions and have implemented fire control and prevention measures. There are only two outcomes at my place. A fire that is quickly put out and damage is minimal or it all burns to the ground. this has already been proven once here about 13 years ago by one of my children and his training after he screwed up worked and the damage was small.

You have found an issue that you want a black and white answer to and I am afraid that you will only find shades of grey. I wish you luck in your quest and please do give us updates on this.[Coffee]

You make a number of good points and I readily admit that my concern *may* be unnecessary. For one thing, if the local municipality where one resides has NOT created ordinances patterned after the NFPA publication, or similar, then my concerns would be entirely obviated.

>>I truly believe that when you start digging that you will find that the limitations that you have found in print mainly apply to a business.<<

On this point, I beg to differ. The NFPA guidelines are clearly delineated between "residences" and "commercial establishments" with explicit language directed at each. Here are several relevant paragraphs copied from NFPA 495:


11-5.3 No more than 25,000 small arms primers may be transported in a private vehicle.

11-5.4 No more than 10,000 small arms primers may be stored in residences.

11-5.5 No more than 10,000 small arms primers may be displayed in commercial establishments.

11-5.6 Commercial stocks of small arms primers shall be stored as follows: .....(see NFPA 495 for details)

With regard to "commercial" businesses, it addresses how primers are to be "displayed" and how they are to be "stored" as separate guidelines. Like you, I've noted practices at several commercial businesses in the area (back when they had available product for sale and "displayed") that appear to be in violation of the NFPA guidelines - which raises some interesting questions.

Regarding residences, however, I am pretty clear on the language, and intent, of paragraph 11-5.4. There cannot be much doubt that a maximum limit of 10,000 primers may be stored in residences per this document. If the NFPA document carries any legal authority (either directly or adopted) then it is sensible to at least be aware of the prescribed limitation.

I think the "grey" are you mention is the fact there are still too many 'if's' to allow any black-and-white answers at this stage. I will report back as I dig into this more deeply and assuming the information I gather is useful.

[Great-Kazoo]

I have a Vidmar 3 drawer cabinet that is 14G steel and locks for my storage. It has enough gaps that I consider it "vented". Would not take much to make it "spark proof" and has about 6X the space. It was free. My primers are inside and in 30 cal cans as well. Good thing I saved 2 grand.[Flower]

Which is why i built my own.The OP is chasing his tail over technicalities, so i provided a link for a BATFE "Approved" storage unit. Cannot get more compliant than that.



You make a number of good points and I readily admit that my concern *may* be unnecessary. For one thing, if the local municipality where one resides has NOT created ordinances patterned after the NFPA publication, or similar, then my concerns would be entirely obviated.

>>I truly believe that when you start digging that you will find that the limitations that you have found in print mainly apply to a business.<<

On this point, I beg to differ. The NFPA guidelines are clearly delineated between "residences" and "commercial establishments" with explicit language directed at each. Here are several relevant paragraphs copied from NFPA 495:



With regard to "commercial" businesses, it addresses how primers are to be "displayed" and how they are to be "stored" as separate guidelines. Like you, I've noted practices at several commercial businesses in the area (back when they had available product for sale and "displayed") that appear to be in violation of the NFPA guidelines - which raises some interesting questions.

Regarding residences, however, I am pretty clear on the language, and intent, of paragraph 11-5.4. There cannot be much doubt that a maximum limit of 10,000 primers may be stored in residences per this document. If the NFPA document carries any legal authority (either directly or adopted) then it is sensible to at least be aware of the prescribed limitation.

I think the "grey" are you mention is the fact there are still too many 'if's' to allow any black-and-white answers at this stage. I will report back as I dig into this more deeply and assuming the information I gather is useful.


My suggestions

1- store 9K of primers in 1 area, other primers elsewhere

2- Same for powder

3- Consider building or buying a 10 x 10 shed, out building. Insulate it and make that your hazardous materials storage.

4- relax , take a step back and do what you feel comfortable with.

My FD, when asked, said, As long as the material is contained in secure, fire proof cabinets they're GTG.

One other item regarding the FD, Zoning and you. Having delt with them for a business in larimer cty i will say. If your area looks clean, organized and materials stored safely, no one is going to care or press any "fine print" . That's for commercial property, residential, unless someone calls the FD you will never see them. Don't raise any Red Flags. The more you dig the more someone takes an interest.

[DHC]

As I mentioned earlier, I'll update this thread as I learn more. The first thing I wanted to determine is whether NFPA 495 is applicable to my residence. I live in the municipality of Centennial. A review of the Centennial Municipal Code produces Article 7 as follows:


Sec. 18-7-10. International Fire Code adopted.

(a) The International Fire Code, 2009 Edition, 2nd printing, as published by the International Code Council, 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, Chapters 1 through 45 inclusive and Appendices B, C and J only ("IFC"), is hereby adopted by reference as the City of Centennial Fire Code as if fully set out in this Article with the additions, deletions, insertions and changes as set forth in this Article.

AND

Sec. 18-7- 40. Penalties for violation of International Fire Code.

It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert or demolish, equip, use, occupy or maintain any building or structure or cause or permit the same to be done in violation of this code. In addition to other sanctions set forth in the IFC, a person or entity that violates the IFC may be fined in an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisoned for a term not to exceed one (1) year, or both such fine and imprisonment, as more fully set forth in Section 1-4-10 of the Municipal Code.
(Ord. 2011-O-07 §1)

This led me to the International Fire Code, 2009 edition, which states:


3306.1 General. Indoor storage and display of black powder, smokeless propellants and small arms ammunition shall comply with this section and NFPA 495.

This leads us back to NFPA 495, chapter 11, which states:


11-5.4 No more than 10,000 small arms primers may be stored in residences.

My reading of this is clear. If a person is storing more than 10,000 primers in their residence in the City of Centennial they are in clear violation of the Municipal Code and subject to a fine and/or imprisonment.

A quick check of the Town of Windsor where you live Jim indicates no adoption of the IFC, so you may not have the same legal considerations as others. I also quickly looked at Colorado Springs where jerrymrc lives and it looks like Colorado Springs has adopted the same code as Centennial, reference their Ordinance 11-41, paragraph 8-4-102 Adoption of Fire Code and which also contains penalties of a fine and/or imprisonment. My strong suspicion is that a great many municipalities in urban areas will have similar ordinances as Centennial and Colorado Springs and whose residents are subject to the limitations prescribed in the NFPA.

I should think this would be of some interest to the members of this site. Perhaps most members here were already aware of this issue, but I have seen little evidence of it and I did a pretty thorough search of the site looking for previous posts on the topic prior to making my initial post.

There is still more digging to do. I'll report back if I find anything worthwhile.

[rondog]

I have an old heavy-duty Steelcase 4-drawer office filing cabinet that locks, and I keep my powder and primers locked up in the bottom two drawers of it. Also comes in handy for filing all kinds of papers and documents. These can be found at used office furniture joints, thrift stores, junk stores, garage sales, Craigslist, etc. Any lock shop can make keys for them from the number on the lock front.

[Great-Kazoo]

My reading of this is clear. If a person is storing more than 10,000 primers in their residence in the City of Centennial they are in clear violation of the Municipal Code and subject to a fine and/or imprisonment.

I should think this would be of some interest to the members of this site. Perhaps most members here were already aware of this issue, but I have seen little evidence of it and I did a pretty thorough search of the site looking for previous posts on the topic prior to making my initial post.

How much more digging is going to change the info you have? You've found the answer, multiple times . You either store components safely and comfortably or you don't.
Have you checked the City's ordinances regarding gas and propane storage? You're probably in violation without knowing it.[Beer]

[DHC]

My reading of this is clear. If a person is storing more than 10,000 primers in their residence in the City of Centennial they are in clear violation of the Municipal Code and subject to a fine and/or imprisonment.

I should think this would be of some interest to the members of this site. Perhaps most members here were already aware of this issue, but I have seen little evidence of it and I did a pretty thorough search of the site looking for previous posts on the topic prior to making my initial post.

How much more digging is going to change the info you have? You've found the answer, multiple times . You either store components safely and comfortably or you don't.
Have you checked the City's ordinances regarding gas and propane storage? You're Probably in violation of those too.[Beer]

Jim,

>>You've found the answer, multiple times .<<

No, actually I hadn't. Until I was able to confirm that my municipality has adopted the IFC/NFPA it was not clear there were ANY legal restrictions/consequences. Now that has become clear - BUT - there remain other areas of uncertainty, such as whether or not there are risks to insurance coverage.

>>You either store components safely and comfortably or you don't.<<

Not sure what you mean by "comfortably," but you obviously missed an important point from my initial post about storing powder and primers LEGALLY as well. Surely you do not encourage that someone fail to follow local ordinances - correct? Along those same lines, you would not promote ignorance of the laws that might subject someone to legal penalties including possible loss of liberties - correct?

>>Have you checked the City's ordinances regarding gas and propane storage? You're Probably in violation of those too.<<

In response to your rhetorical question - if I were interested in "gas and propane storage," I would have asked about it - though probably not here as it would be inconsistent with the theme and expressed interests of the site.

Jim, You have a clear POV and I appreciate your contributions. I would not have thought of purchasing old cabinets and modifying them to meet the safety requirements and it is a good idea. Thanks for that.

OTOH, you lack the perspective I, and possibly others, have of consideration for the full weight of legal consequences. As there has been little, or no, definitive nexus to tie municipal code and ordinances (with attendant penalties) to the NFPA, I felt that was worthwhile to do. If you do not - great.

Take care.

[jerrymrc]

I will not go any further but
I also quickly looked at Colorado Springs where jerrymrc lives I have a COS address but I live in El paso county, unincorporated so the sources I checked were the local volunteer fire dept and the county. I want nothing to do with the city. [Flower]

[Great-Kazoo]

Not sure what you mean by "comfortably," but you obviously missed an important point from my initial post about storing powder and primers LEGALLY as well. Surely you do not encourage that someone fail to follow local ordinances - correct? Along those same lines, you would not promote ignorance of the laws that might subject someone to legal penalties including possible loss of liberties - correct?

It's very easy to understand. You maintain no more than 9999 primers on site. This keeps you under the 10K limit and you're GTG. What's so hard to Not understand? I provided links for ATFe Approved Powder storage as well as a link to Alliant for their info. Between those links and your IFC it's easy. Keep components below the IFC and you have no worries Legal or Ins co wise.

[DHC]

Not sure what you mean by "comfortably," but you obviously missed an important point from my initial post about storing powder and primers LEGALLY as well. Surely you do not encourage that someone fail to follow local ordinances - correct? Along those same lines, you would not promote ignorance of the laws that might subject someone to legal penalties including possible loss of liberties - correct?

It's very easy to understand. You maintain no more than 9999 primers on site. This keeps you under the 10K limit and you're GTG. What's so hard to Not understand? I provided links for ATFe Approved Powder storage as well as a link to Alliant for their info. Between those links and your IFC it's easy. Keep components below the IFC and you have no worries Legal or Ins co wise.

Got it.

Thanks.

[sabot_round]

What powder? What primers? They're scarce remember?[Flower]

[clocker]

Good research DHC. I do not have an account on NFPA's website to know what's in the latest version, but there has been a lot of good data and discussion about primer limits. http://www.nfpa.org/assets/files/AboutTheCodes/495/495-F2009-ROP.pdf

[clocker]

So it turns out that you can register for a free account with the NFPA. Section 14.5.6 of the 2013 code is what you want.

[Great-Kazoo]

Looks like they're raising the limit to 100k in a residental situation.

Galaxy Note II + Tapatalk 2

Some one's back order came in;)

[DHC]

So it turns out that you can register for a free account with the NFPA. Section 14.5.6 of the 2013 code is what you want.

I found it. Thanks for the reference to the update. They appear to have added a new category and make reference to yet another document - this time it is the U.S. DOT classifications. Specifically, the 2013 edition of the NFPA 495 publication states the following:


14.5.6 For small arms primers classified by the U.S. DOT as 1.4S, the limit stored in residences shall be permitted to be increased to 150,000.

Reference to the U.S. DOT classification leads to the CFR publications and I *think* the relevant code is found in CFR 172. The exercise becomes a bit maze-like at this point trying to find a definition and distinction for "primers classified by the U.S. DOT as 1.4S" - BUT - I *think* it means that the primers must be stored in their original boxes. It is important to note that I did NOT find that definition explicitly. It is the result of several hours of trying to piece together a 'jigsaw' puzzle from many odd snippets and references. Someone more familiar with CFR and Hazmat shipping regulations would probably be a better judge as to the correct interpretation.

In any case, that is the what I've come up with most recently based on your reference.

FWIW

[sabot_round]

1.4S type explosives IAW CFR 49 (transportation of hazzardous materials) are determined by the Net Explosive Weight (NEW). For example: the only NEW found within your cartridges is the primer/fuzes, etc. You can find more info HERE (http://uxoinfo.com/blogcfc/client/enclosures/classification.pdf)!!