It’s easy to use up ammo, but what happens to it after the fact? While the mark may have been hit, bullet casings and used ammo still remain. We’re here to tell you why recycling scrap ammo is the best thing you can do with any remaining material.
Not only is recycling scrap ammo a green solution, but it’s also the best way to reduce waste and manage resources.
Today, we’ll discuss the true environmental impact of recycling scrap ammo, the benefits of doing so, and all you need to know about scrap ammo and the recycling process.
Understanding Scrap Ammo
First, what is scrap ammo, and what are the different types?
Scrap ammo is essentially the parts and pieces that remain after using ammunition.
These parts are significant because they can be sold and recycled to later be reused. Scrap ammo can be recycled and reused several times, making it an important material to recycle.
Various types of scrap ammo materials include steel, brass, and lead. Spent cartridges, bullets, shells, and casings are the most common types of recycled scrap ammo.
Ammunition must be handled properly, as there is still risk after it is used. Casings need to be washed and dried, and any remaining powder stuck inside needs to be removed.
Common Sources of Scrap Ammo
Scrap ammo is usually collected from a few different places, but some locations are more common than others.
They include:
- Military sites
- Law enforcement training facilities
- Shooting ranges
- From private gun owners
Most of these common sources are known for being environmentally responsible with scrap ammo and are aware of how impactful recycling the leftover materials can be. It’s also a great way to earn money back on purchased ammunition.
The Environmental Impact of Ammo Waste
So, why does recycling scrap ammo matter so much?
As you can imagine, spent cartridges and bullet casings are abundant when ammunition is used.
With such a large volume of these materials, the environmental impact of these materials is significant, depending on whether or not they are recycled. These materials include steel, lead, brass, and other useful metals.
Without recycling, these materials become waste, which can negatively affect the environment and cause major challenges.
How improper disposal affects the environment
Improper disposal of scrap ammo can lead to soil contamination and water pollution and it can even harm wildlife. Hazardous materials can make their way into both our soil and waterways used for the resources we need to live. It becomes a danger to our communities.
Recycling scrap ammo means safer and cleaner communities, from which we all can benefit.
Not to mention, mining new resources can be expensive. The environmental effect is significant, but the financial impact is, too. This makes it particularly beneficial for businesses and individuals to recycle their ammo.
Benefits of Recycling Scrap Ammo
We’ve already touched on some of the high level benefits of recycling scrap ammo. Let’s get into it further!
Conservation of natural resources
Recycling scrap ammo reduces the demand and needs for mining metals. This allows for significant energy savings from recycling metals and serves as a solution to new production.
There are significant cost savings to conserving natural resources as well.
Reduction of environmental pollution
We touched on just how influential recycling scrap ammo can be on the environment. This is particularly true when it comes to reducing pollution.
Recycling ammo mitigates soil and water contamination. It can also limit the risks of wildlife exposure to hazardous materials and help maintain our ecosystems.
Supporting sustainable initiatives
We must all do our part to support sustainable initiatives. Recycling scrap ammo contributes to a circular economy and promotes environmentally friendly practices within our communities.
The Recycling Process for Scrap Ammo
As you learn more about recycling scrap ammo, one of the things you’re probably curious about is what the recycling process for scrap ammo looks like.
Today, we’ll go over the basics, starting with cleaning and ending with the end products and their uses.
Collection and sorting
The ammo is collected from various sources and is carefully sorted. It should be sorted by steel, brass, lead, and shotgun shells.
Sorting scrap ammo usually means you’ll get the best value from it. Shotgun shells specifically have a component which is mostly plastic. Turning them this way will likely reduce their value and leave you with less of a return.
That means sorting is beneficial not only for the facility but also for the scrap ammo provider.
Cleaning
Before casings are turned in for recycling, they must be properly washed and dried to remove any remaining powder.
Even the smallest amount of remaining powder has the potential to create sparks that can lead to fires. If any powder residue is left on the casings, the recycling facility might not accept them.
Processing
Once the materials are properly cleaned, they are melted and refined. This process transforms them from raw materials to new products. The old materials have a fresh start, which conserves more natural resources.
Where To Turn In Bullets For Recycling
It can be challenging to properly dispose of bullets on your own.
That’s why working with a trained professional who knows how to handle them is essential. If you’re an individual looking to recycle, you can always turn to scrap recycling professionals like Scrap Gators.
There are also some common places you can turn your scrap ammo into. They will then ensure the scrap is passed on to professionals to deal with.
Police stations and gun ranges are two of the best places to take your scrap ammo (other than recycling centers).
If you have a small amount of bullets and duds, your local police station may take them for recycling. Call the non-emergency number to confirm – they will send someone to pick up your scrap ammo or ask you to bring it into the police station.
Local shooting ranges are another option because most will accept the scrap ammo and can prepare it for recycling. Many gun ranges have special days for collection, so be sure to call first before planning a drop-off.
Maximize Your Returns for Scrap Ammo
Recycling scrap ammo should be a top priority. Individuals and organizations can work together to make that difference.
If you’re interested in recycling scrap ammo to contribute to the environmental benefits, Scrap Gators in Fort Pierce is the place to go. They make recycling easy and accessible and will also help you maximize your returns to get the most out of your scrap.
Contact Scrap Gators in Florida for your recycling services or to learn more.
