Fat 50 Ammo Can: The Ultimate Storage Solution

The fat 50 ammo can, a timeless staple in the world of ammunition storage, is a topic of great interest among shooting enthusiasts and survivalists alike. Dating back to the mid-20th century, these durable containers have earned their stripes and continue to be a top choice for many reasons. Let's delve into the world of the fat 50 ammo can, exploring its history, features, benefits, and best use cases.

Ammo Cans & 50 Cal Ammo Boxes for Sale | Metal Ammunition Storage
Ammo Cans & 50 Cal Ammo Boxes for Sale | Metal Ammunition Storage

Before we dive in, it's crucial to understand the naming convention. The "fat" in "fat 50 ammo can" refers to the United States' caliber .50 BMG, a large cartridge designed for military uses and long-range shooting. The "50" denotes the can's standard capacity of approximately 50 rounds of this caliber, although they can hold slightly less due to the size and shape of the cartridges.

New 30mm Ammo can $49.99, New 20mm Ammo can $44.99, New fat 50 cal Ammo can $16.99, New 50 cal Ammo can $13.99, New 30 cal Ammo can $11.99. No longer available surplus ammo cans.
New 30mm Ammo can $49.99, New 20mm Ammo can $44.99, New fat 50 cal Ammo can $16.99, New 50 cal Ammo can $13.99, New 30 cal Ammo can $11.99. No longer available surplus ammo cans.

The History and Evolution of the Fat 50 Ammo Can

tracing back to the 1950s when the U.S. military required a durable, stackable container to store ammunition for its powerful .50 Browning Machine Gun (BMG). The first fat 50 ammo cans were made of steel, weighing around 5-6 pounds each, and were designed to withstand harsh battlefield conditions.

two wooden boxes sitting next to each other on the ground
two wooden boxes sitting next to each other on the ground

Over the years, the fat 50 ammo can has evolved to meet the demands of various civilian applications. Today, they are manufactured by numerous companies in a variety of sizes and materials, from lightweight plastic to rugged steel. Yet, the original dimensions and capacities have mostly remained unchanged, ensuring they remain compatible with existing storage solutions.

The Anatomy of a Fat 50 Ammo Can

two open cases filled with ammocks on top of a floor next to boxes
two open cases filled with ammocks on top of a floor next to boxes

At its core, the fat 50 ammo can is characterized by its large, rectangular shape and robust construction. It typically features:

  • A main body, usually with a removable lid
  • A sturdy, metal or plastic handle for easy carrying
  • Rubber gaskets or o-rings for waterproofing and airtight sealing
  • A stackable design, with lips on the lid and base for secure interlocking

Materials and Sizes of Fat 50 Ammo Cans

a black box with glasses on it sitting in front of a white wall and floor
a black box with glasses on it sitting in front of a white wall and floor

Today's fat 50 ammo cans come in two primary materials: steel and plastic. Steel cans are heavier, more durable, and often come with a baked-on powder coat finish for added protection. Plastic cans, on the other hand, are lighter, less expensive, and usually have a threaded lid for improved sealing.

Sizes vary, but the most common still conform to the original dimensions of approximately 17.5" x 10.5" x 8.5". Some manufacturers offer mini or compact versions, while others provide extra-large cans for storing smaller calibers or miscellaneous gear.

The Benefits of Using Fat 50 Ammo Cans

an old tea kettle sitting on top of a stove in front of a white building
an old tea kettle sitting on top of a stove in front of a white building

Beyond their iconic status, fat 50 ammo cans offer several practical benefits that explain their enduring popularity.

Durability and Longevity

6.5" Coax crammed into a FAT50 can
6.5" Coax crammed into a FAT50 can
New 30mm Ammo can $49.99, New 20mm Ammo can $44.99, New fat 50 cal Ammo can $16.99, New 50 cal Ammo can $13.99, New 30 cal Ammo can $11.99. No longer available surplus ammo cans.
New 30mm Ammo can $49.99, New 20mm Ammo can $44.99, New fat 50 cal Ammo can $16.99, New 50 cal Ammo can $13.99, New 30 cal Ammo can $11.99. No longer available surplus ammo cans.
several large bins are stacked on top of each other
several large bins are stacked on top of each other
50 Cal Ammo Can
50 Cal Ammo Can
Ammo cans are great to store ammo in. 500 rounds of 7.62x51.or 1000 rounds of5.56 .in fat 50 cal cans, u also can store 600 +rounds pistol ammo. Just add silica gel packs ammo stores along time Assorted Bullet Casings, Antique Bullet Casings Collection, Bullet Reloading Equipment Setup, 9mm Bullet Holder, Gel Pack, Silica Gel, Canning
Ammo cans are great to store ammo in. 500 rounds of 7.62x51.or 1000 rounds of5.56 .in fat 50 cal cans, u also can store 600 +rounds pistol ammo. Just add silica gel packs ammo stores along time Assorted Bullet Casings, Antique Bullet Casings Collection, Bullet Reloading Equipment Setup, 9mm Bullet Holder, Gel Pack, Silica Gel, Canning
GMRS Mobile Two Way Radios & Base Stations | Midland
GMRS Mobile Two Way Radios & Base Stations | Midland
Drum Mag Drawing, Bullet Scale For Reloading, Draco Drum Mag, Ak 100 Round Drum, Drum And Bullet, 500 Round Drum, Uzi Drum Mag, Ak47 Drum, 100 Round Drum
Drum Mag Drawing, Bullet Scale For Reloading, Draco Drum Mag, Ak 100 Round Drum, Drum And Bullet, 500 Round Drum, Uzi Drum Mag, Ak47 Drum, 100 Round Drum
50 Cal Ammo Can
50 Cal Ammo Can
an army backpack sitting on the floor
an army backpack sitting on the floor
DR650 Cycle Cover? - Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB
DR650 Cycle Cover? - Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB

Constructed to withstand extreme conditions, fat 50 ammo cans are built to last. Both steel and plastic models can survive drops, crushing forces, and even immersion in water, making them ideal for long-term storage and rugged outdoor use.

Versatile Storage Solutions

While designed for .50 BMG ammunition, fat 50 ammo cans can store rounds for other calibers, too. They're also perfect for holding reloading supplies, survival gear, emergency food rations, and other valuable items you want to protect and organize.

Stackability and Organization

The stackable design of fat 50 ammo cans allows for efficient use of space. They can be safely stacked up to four high, keeping your storage area organized and clutter-free. Some models even come with built-in dividers or trays for better organization within the can.

Best Uses for Fat 50 Ammo Cans

Given their versatility, fat 50 ammo cans have found their way into many aspects of shooting, hunting, and preparedness. Let's explore some of their best use cases.

Long-Term Ammunition Storage

Fat 50 ammo cans are ideal for long-term ammunition storage, keeping your rounds safe from moisture, dust, and pests. Stored properly, ammunition inside these cans can last decades, ensuring you're always well-stocked for range time or emergencies.

Reloading Accessories and Components

Reloading enthusiasts will find fat 50 ammo cans invaluable for organizing and protecting their reloading supplies. From dies and punches to primers, powders, and bullets, these cans help keep your reloading bench tidy and everything at your fingertips.

Emergency Food and Gear

The durable, airtight seal of fat 50 ammo cans makes them excellent for storing emergency food rations, medical supplies, and other essential gear. They can help protect these items from moisture, pests, and even radiation, ensuring they remain safe and usable when you need them most.

In conclusion, the fat 50 ammo can is more than just a classic icon of shooting culture – it's a versatile, durable, and practical solution for a wide range of storage needs. From protecting ammunition and reloading supplies to keeping emergency gear safe and organized, these cans continue to prove their worth in the modern world. So whether you're a seasoned shooter, avid reloader, or dedicated prepper, consider investing in a few fat 50 ammo cans to expand your storage capabilities and ensure your valuable items are protected for years to come. Get started today and experience the fat 50 ammo can difference for yourself!