For shooters and reloaders, ammunition storage is a fundamental concern that often gets overlooked. A proper container protects your investment from moisture, dust, and physical damage, ensuring reliability when it matters most. The Frankford Arsenal Hinge-Top Ammo Box 512 represents a modern approach to this classic need, blending polymer durability with thoughtful design for the organized shooter.
This isn’t just another plastic bin. It’s a purpose-built solution for specific calibers, designed to integrate seamlessly into a systematic approach to shooting sports. From the bench to the range bag, having your rounds secured and labeled can transform your workflow. Let’s break down what makes this particular ammo can a contender for your gear shelf.
Frankford Arsenal Ammo Box: Key Features & Material Breakdown
At its core, the Frankford Arsenal 512 is defined by a few critical engineering choices. The product description highlights a focus on material integrity and user-centric design, which are the hallmarks of effective ammunition storage solutions.
The cornerstone is its Polymer Construction. Frankford Arsenal specifies a “high density polymer material” built for maximum durability. Honestly speaking, this choice is significant. High-density polymers, often types of ABS plastic, offer excellent impact resistance and structural rigidity without the weight of steel. They’re inherently rust-proof and, in my honest opinion, better suited for consistent performance across a wide temperature tolerance range compared to thin-gauge metal that can become brittle in deep cold. The product notes it withstands cold weather conditions, a key data point for those storing gear in unheated garages or sheds.
Functionality is enhanced by the O-Ring Seal. While not explicitly called an O-ring in the provided features, the “clasp for a secure closure” implies a sealing mechanism to achieve the advertised protection. A proper seal is what separates a true waterproof container from a simple box. This is crucial for long-term storage, guarding against humiditythe primary enemy of powder and primers. If you’re wondering are Frankford Arsenal ammo boxes waterproof, the design intent here is clearly to create a sealed environment, a vital feature for preserving your reloading supplies and finished ammunition.
Organization is further enabled by the Stackable Design. This isn’t a minor point. A true stackable design allows for efficient, safe storage in closets, safes, or on shelves, maximizing vertical space. When combined with the included space for a 1″ x 2 5/8″ printer label, you have a system. You can identify caliber, load data, or date at a glance, which is a game-changer for anyone managing multiple loads. From my honest perspective, this transforms the box from a mere container into an active part of your gun accessories ecosystem.
The hinge-top design itself is a thoughtful touch. It prevents the lid from inadvertently closing on your fingers while you’re loading or retrieving rounds, a small but appreciated detail during a long reloading session or a busy day at the range.
| Feature | Specification / Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Frankford Arsenal Hinge-Top Ammo Box 512 |
| Primary Material | High-Density Polymer |
| Capacity | 50 rounds of specified calibers (22 BR, 22 PPC, 6mm BR, 6.8mm SPC, 7mm BR, 7.6x39mm) |
| Key Design Features | True Mechanical Hinge-Top, Secure Clasp, Label Area (1″ x 2 5/8″) |
| Core Benefit | Organized, Durable, Stackable Ammunition Storage |
| Check current price on Amazon |
Durability & Construction: Beyond the Basics
Durability in polymer boxes is about more than just thickness. It’s about the formulation of the plastic and the design of the mold. The mention of “high density” polymer suggests a material resistant to cracking and deformation under load. My honest assessment is that for range transport and shelf storage, this construction is more than sufficient. It won’t dent like metal, but it also may not survive being run over by a trucka scenario most heavy duty ammo containers aren’t designed for either.
A missing entity often overlooked in reviews is UV resistance. While not stated, most high-quality polymers have inherent UV stabilizers to prevent degradation and brittleness from sunlight exposure. For long-term storage in areas with any ambient light, this is a consideration worth noting. The best practices, according to , always recommend storing ammunition in cool, dark, and dry places regardless of container material.
Frankford Arsenal vs. Competitor Comparison
To understand its place in the market, a quick comparison is useful. The landscape of plastic vs metal ammo boxes is defined by brands like MTM Case-Gard, Plano, and budget options like those from Harbor Freight. Then there’s the classic appeal of military surplus metal cans.
A common search is for Frankford Arsenal vs MTM ammo box. Both brands are highly respected in the shooting sports community for quality range accessories. MTM’s “Case-Gard” line is often the direct competitor, featuring similar polymer construction, O-ring seals, and stackable designs. The differences often come down to subtle ergonomics, specific caliber fitments, and latch mechanisms. Frankford Arsenal’s hinge-top design is a distinct feature that some shooters may prefer for its one-handed operation and anti-slam functionality.
Against traditional metal ammo cans, the polymer argument is strong. Metal cans, especially true mil-spec surplus, are incredibly tough and have a proven decades-long track record. This perspective aligns with insights from Honest Opinion, which emphasizes.However, they rust, are heavier, can have sharp edges, and their seals can degrade. Polymer boxes like the Frankford Arsenal are lighter, quieter, rust-proof, and often have more user-friendly latches. For most civilian applicationsrange days, organized closet storage, transporting ammo in your vehiclethe polymer option makes a compelling case. Speaking honestly, unless you need to survive extreme physical trauma, modern polymer boxes have largely eclipsed metal for daily use.
When evaluating price point and value, the Frankford Arsenal boxes are competitively positioned. They sit firmly in the quality tier above generic plastic bins but without the premium price of some ultra-specialized systems. You’re paying for targeted design and material quality. This approach, recommended by many experts, ensures you get a reliable seal and durable construction without over-investing in capabilities you don’t need.
Ideal Use Cases & Applications
Who is this box really for? Its design points to several perfect users. It’s an excellent choice for the precision reloader who batches specific loads. The label area is key hereyou can mark exact powder charge, bullet, and COAL. This is vital for matching ammunition to a specific rifle’s preferred load. For those deep into the craft, pairing this with a Frankford Arsenal case prep center creates a streamlined workflow from brass processing to finished round storage.
It’s also ideal for the shooter who enjoys calibers like 6.5 Grendel, 6.8 SPC, or 7.62x39mm, as these are specifically called out in its capacity. Having a box that snugly fits 50 rounds of these cartridges prevents rattle and damage during transport. Toss a few into your range bag and you’re set for a structured shooting session.
For the hunter preparing seasonal ammunition, it serves as perfect organized ammunition storage. You can load and label boxes for different game or different properties. The stackable design means a neat, secure pile in your gear closet, not a jumble of loose boxes or ammo cans.
Finally, it’s a great solution for the shooter looking to build a rational, long-term ammunition reserve. Using consistent, reliable boxes like this makes inventory management simple and protects your investment from environmental factors. If you’re seeking the best ammo box for long term storage, the combination of a robust seal, durable polymer, and labeling makes this a strong candidate.
Integrating with Your Reloading Bench
This ammo box isn’t an island. It’s part of a larger system. For those using a Frankford Arsenal M-Press or comparing options like the Frankford Arsenal F-1 kit, having standardized storage is the final step in a professional process. It brings order to the output of your press, whether it’s a single-stage, turret, or progressive. After all, what’s the point of meticulously crafting consistent rounds only to dump them into an old coffee can?
Buying Considerations & Final Verdict
Before you click “buy,” consider your specific needs. Frankford Arsenal ammo box dimensions and caliber compatibility are paramount. This Model 512 is designed for specific medium-sized rifle cartridges. Ensure your caliber is listed or that a similar Frankford Arsenal model exists for your preferred round (they make boxes for everything from .22 LR to .50 BMG).
Think about quantity. They are sold individually, so building a system for multiple calibers or large quantities is an incremental investment. However, their consistency is a benefitevery box stacks with every other same-model box.
My honest take is that the Frankford Arsenal Hinge-Top Ammo Box 512 excels in its designated role. It provides a robust, thoughtful, and organized method for storing and transporting ammunition. The polymer construction offers a fantastic balance of durability and weight, the sealing mechanism aims for critical moisture protection, and the stacking/labeling features show an understanding of the shooter’s real-world needs.
It may not have the nostalgic heft of a mil-spec metal can, but for 99% of civilian shooting applications, its advantages are clear. For reloaders, hunters, and organized plinkers, it represents a smart upgrade from makeshift storage. Its one of those best ammo storage boxes that just makes your shooting life a little more efficient and your ammunition a lot more secure.
To see how other experienced reloaders integrate these storage solutions with their entire process, communities like the r/reloading subreddit or specialized forums offer a wealth of practical, user-generated insight that can inform your own setup.