a reliable, no-nonsense container for your ammunition shouldn’t feel like a tactical mission. Yet, with so many flimsy options on the market, securing your investment in factory loads or hand-loaded rounds requires a box that means business. The Frankford Arsenal Hinge-Top Ammo Box 505 steps into this role with a straightforward promise: durable, organized, and accessible storage.
This isn’t a complex, feature-laden tactical crate but a focused solution for a shooter’s core need. Its designed to hold specific calibers securely, survive the jostle of a range bag, and stack neatly in your safe or on a shelf. My honest take is that its value lies in its simplicity and execution of fundamental storage principles.
Frankford Arsenal Ammo Box 505: Build Quality & Material Analysis
At first glance, the box communicates sturdiness. Its constructed from a high-density polymer, a material choice that immediately separates it from thinner, more brittle plastic containers. This polypropylene construction is key to its performance. Honestly speaking, this material provides a resilient shell that can withstand impacts, cold weather conditions as noted in its specs, and the general abrasion of regular use.
The hinge mechanism is a standout feature. Described as a “true mechanical hinge,” it differs from the common living hinge design found on cheaper boxes. A living hinge is a thin section of plastic that flexes; it can fatigue and crack over time. A true mechanical hinge, with separate pin-and-barrel components, is inherently more robust and durable for repeated opening and closing cycles. This design directly addresses long-term reliability, a frequent point of failure in other budget ammo cans.
While it doesn’t carry a formal IP67 rating for dust and water immersion like some sealed tactical boxes, its design prioritizes a different kind of protection. The clasp provides a secure closure, and the high-density material shields contents from physical damage and moisture in typical storage environments. For those wondering about the Best durable ammo box for long term storage, this build quality makes a compelling case, especially when considering SAAMI-recommended storage conditions for ammunition stability.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Frankford Arsenal Hinge-Top Ammo Box 505 |
| Primary Material | High-Density Polymer (Polypropylene) |
| Hinge Design | True Mechanical Hinge |
| Closure | Secure Clasp |
| Caliber Capacity | 50 rounds of .17 Rem, .222 Rem, .222 Rem Mag, .223 Rem/5.56, .357 Max |
| Special Features | Integrated label space (1″ x 2 5/8″), Stackable Design, Cold-Weather Resistant |
| Check current price on Amazon |
Key Features & Real-World Functionality
Beyond the robust build, several thoughtful features elevate this from a simple plastic box to a practical ammunition storage tool.
Organized & Accessible Design
The hinge-top design does more than just increase durability. It prevents the lid from inadvertently closing on your fingers while you’re loading or retrieving rounds. This is a small but significant ergonomic benefit during a long reloading session or a busy day at the range. The included space for a printed label is another win for organization. You can easily mark the box with caliber, load data, date, or any other critical info, eliminating the guesswork that plagues unlabeled containers. This approach, recommended by , ensures your gear remains organized and efficient.
Stackable & Space-Efficient
The stacking lugs integrated into the design are a non-negotiable feature for efficient storage. They allow multiple boxes to lock together securely, creating stable towers in your safe or on shelving. This prevents the frustrating domino effect of unsecured containers and maximizes vertical space. For shooters with extensive collections, from bulk .223 Remington to other supported calibers, this stackable design transforms chaotic piles into a neat, accessible library of ammunition.
Caliber-Specific Versatility
This model is specifically sized for 50 rounds of several popular rifle calibers, most notably the ubiquitous .223 Remington/5.56. This specific fit prevents rounds from bouncing around excessively, which can be important for preserving precision ammunition. My honest assessment is that while it lacks the adjustable dividers of a larger tactical storage box, its dedicated sizing offers optimal protection and space use for its intended cartridges.
Performance & Comparison to Other Ammo Boxes
So how does this Frankford Arsenal box stack up against common alternatives. To be completely honest, it occupies a smart middle ground. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes
Frankford Arsenal vs. MTM Case-Gard
MTM is often the go-to brand for plastic ammo boxes. Their products are excellent, but the Frankford Arsenal 505 competes directly with a similar hinge-top philosophy. The comparison often boils down to specific model features and price point. The Frankford boxs true mechanical hinge is a direct answer to durability concerns some shooters have with other designs. When considering How does the Frankford Arsenal box compare to MTM?, its often a matter of nuanced design choices and which brands ergonomics you prefer.
Frankford Arsenal vs. Budget “Harbor Freight” Options
Theres a world of difference between a purpose-built ammo can and a generic plastic box. The Harbor Freight-style containers are fine for hardware, but they often lack the specific caliber fit, robust latches, and material quality needed for heavy duty ammunition storage. The Frankford Arsenals polymer is formulated to handle the weight and stay resilient in cold temperatures, a detail cheaper boxes frequently overlook.
Addressing Common Questions
Is the Frankford Arsenal ammo box waterproof? It is water-resistant by design and material, but it is not a submersible, sealed waterproof box with an O-ring seal. For protection against rain, spills, or humid safe conditions, it is more than adequate. For submersion or extreme environments, a true mil-spec metal can or an IP67-rated sealed ammo container would be required.
Regarding Frankford Arsenal ammo box latch problems, the clasp on this hinge-top model is simple and robust. The potential failure point common to some ammo boxesa brittle living hingeis eliminated here. The latch engages positively, and the mechanical hinge should provide a long service life without the cracking that plagues inferior designs.
Verdict: Pros, Cons & Who It’s For
After evaluating its construction and features, the Frankford Arsenal Hinge-Top Ammo Box 505 presents a clear value proposition.
The Advantages
- Superior Hinge Design: The true mechanical hinge is a major durability upgrade over common living hinges.
- Heavy-Duty Polymer: The high-density material feels substantial and promises excellent longevity.
- Smart Organization: Label space and a secure, stay-open lid enhance practical usability.
- Space-Saving: The integrated stackable design is essential for organized storage.
- Excellent Value: At its price point, it delivers features often found on more expensive boxes.
Considerations
- Fixed Caliber Sizing: It only fits the listed calibers optimally; it’s not a universal, divider-equipped box.
- Not Submersible: It lacks a pressure seal, so its not for underwater or extreme environmental protection.
- Capacity: The 50-round count is perfect for organized batches but not for bulk, loose storage.
Final Recommendation
I honestly believe this ammo box is an ideal choice for a specific set of shooters. It’s perfect for the reloader who batches ammunition in 50-round lots and needs clear, durable labeling. It’s excellent for the rifle shooter who wants to keep different .223 Remington loads separated and protected in their range bag or safe. Its also a great solution for anyone tired of flimsy plastic boxes that crack in the cold or develop hinge fatigue.
If you need a large, single container for thousands of rounds of bulk ammo, look at a larger polyethylene ammo box or military surplus can. But if your priority is organized, durable, and accessible storage for specific calibers, the Frankford Arsenal 505 is exceptionally difficult to beat. Its focused design solves common problems without unnecessary complexity, making it a reliable workhorse for your shooting supplies. For those deep into the reloading process, pairing this with organized storage for your tools, like a Frankford Arsenal case prep center, creates a streamlined workflow from bench to box.
In the broader ecosystem of shooting accessories, this box exemplifies Frankford Arsenal’s commitment to practical solutions. Whether you’re using their M-Press coaxial press or their case prep tools, having reliable ammunition storage is the final, critical link. For more insights and discussions from the reloading community, resources like the r/reloading subreddit often feature real-world user experiences with products like this. Speaking honestly, for its intended purpose, this ammo crate review concludes with a strong endorsement. Its a simple tool done very, very well.