If you own more than a few boxes of ammunition, proper storage becomes a necessity. MTM Case-Gard has become a go-to brand for shooters who want rugged, water-resistant, stackable ammo cans and crates that are purpose-built for ammo instead of repurposed from other industries. The challenge is simple: MTM makes a lot of models, and it can be hard to know which ammo can, crate, or utility box is right for your setup.
This complete MTM ammunition storage guide breaks down the most popular models—ACDC30, AC3C, AC4C, ACR7-18, ACR5-72, AC50C, AC11, and AC15-11—so you can match each container to a specific role in your ammo storage system.
MTM Ammo Storage Container Categories: A Quick Overview
- Individual ammo cans – AC11, AC15-11, AC50C (general-purpose cans for bulk ammo).
- Crate-and-can combos – AC3C and AC4C (multiple cans in a carry crate for modular storage).
- Crate utility boxes – ACDC30, ACR5-72, ACR7-18 (large, flat utility crates for bulk and boxed ammo).
Comparison Table: Key MTM Models
Model | Type | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
AC15-11 | Mini ammo can | Small-caliber bulk, .22LR, small parts, EDC items. |
AC11 | Standard ammo can | Bulk pistol/rifle ammo, mixed range gear. |
AC50C | 50-cal style ammo can | Larger bulk loads, 50-cal footprint storage. |
ACDC30 | Divided crate utility box | Mixed ammo/gear, divided organizational storage. |
ACR5-72 | Large utility crate | Up to 20 boxes of 12-gauge or similar bulk loads. |
ACR7-18 | Deep utility crate | High-volume storage, general utility gear. |
AC4C | 4-can 30-cal ammo crate | Multi-caliber range kit organization. |
AC3C | 3-can 50-cal ammo crate | Larger-caliber or long-range ammo kits. |
Materials and Construction
When it comes to ammo storage, the materials and construction of your cases and cans make all the difference in keeping your ammunition protected and organized—whether you’re prepping for a hunting trip, a day at the range, or long-term storage at home. Popular ammo storage products like MTM and Plano ammo boxes feature rugged, impact-resistant exteriors that withstand the bumps and drops of everyday use. These cases are built to keep your ammo safe, secure, and ready for action, no matter where your shooting adventures take you.
Security is a top priority, so many ammo storage options feature strong locking systems and reinforced latches. This ensures your ammunition stays locked down and organized by caliber, making it easy to grab the right box for your next hunt or range session. Stackable designs are another key feature—letting you build your storage system high and keep everything neat, whether you’re filling a closet, safe, or garage shelf.
Moisture is the enemy of ammunition, so metal ammo cans are often filled with desiccants to control humidity and keep your ammo dry for the long haul. Many plastic cases also feature water-resistant O-ring seals, providing an additional layer of protection against the elements. Some storage containers are even designed with specific calibers in mind, so you can keep your 9mm, .223, or shotgun shells separated and organized for quick access.
Shopping for the right ammo storage solution is easy—just browse your favorite retailer’s page, click to add the product to your cart, and continue your order. Many websites offer email alerts for new arrivals and exclusive deals on popular ammo storage cases, so you’ll always find the latest options to keep your ammunition protected and organized. Whether you need a compact ammo box for your range bag or a large, lockable crate for your hunting gear, there’s a rugged, purpose-built storage case that fits your needs. By continuing to explore your options, you’ll find the perfect ammo storage solution to keep your gear safe, secure, and ready whenever you are.
MTM Individual Ammo Cans
MTM AC15-11 – Mini Ammo Can
The MTM AC15-11 is a mini ammo can designed for bulk ammo in smaller calibers and compact storage needs. It’s ideal for shooters who want to keep small amounts of ammo or components organized without committing to a full-size can.
Key features:
- Rugged polypropylene construction.
- O-ring seal for water-resistant closure.
- Secure latch with carry handle.
- Compact footprint, easy to tuck into range bags or safes.
Best uses:
- Bulk .22LR or .17 HMR.
- Small quantities of pistol ammo.
- Small parts like springs, magazines, or cleaning accessories.
MTM AC11 – Standard Bulk Ammo Can
The AC11 is MTM’s bulk ammo can built as a plastic alternative to the larger metal “fat 50” style cans. It gives you a generous interior cavity for bulk ammo or mixed gear without being too heavy to carry when full.
Highlights:
- Interior volume around 707 cubic inches, with enough room for large bulk loads.
- O-ring sealed lid for water resistance and dust protection.
- Dual latches for a tighter, more secure closure.
- Padlock tabs for adding small locks.
- Stacking ridges molded into the lid for secure stacking.
Best uses:
- Bulk 9mm, .223/5.56, or .22LR in boxes or loose bags.
- Shotgun shells for upland or clay shooting days.
- Combo setup with ammo plus muffs, glasses, and a cleaning kit.
MTM AC50C – 50-Caliber Style Ammo Can
The MTM AC50C is a 50-caliber style ammo storage can designed as a polymer replacement for classic GI cans. It offers the familiar 50-cal form factor with lighter weight and rust-proof construction.
Core features:
- Rugged polypropylene body with reinforced sidewalls.
- O-ring sealed lid for water resistance.
- Heavy-duty latch and molded handle.
- Stackable design with molded ridges.
Best uses:
- Heavier ammo loads where you still want a compact footprint.
- Storing boxed 5.56, .308, or handgun ammo.
- General-purpose gear can be used when not packed with ammo.
MTM Crate-and-Can Combos
MTM AC4C – 4-Can Ammo Crate (30 Cal)
The AC4C is a 4-can ammo crate system that includes four 30-cal polymer ammo cans locked into a rugged crate. Each can is removable, giving you modular storage and the flexibility to grab just what you need for a specific range day.
Key features:
- Four individual 30-cal ammo cans with O-ring seals and latches.
- Heavy-duty crate with side carry handles and a stackable design.
- Designed to fit in many vehicle trunks and safes.
- Great for separating calibers or roles (defensive ammo, practice, hunting).
Best uses:
- Dedicated can for each caliber (9mm, .223/5.56, .308, shotgun, etc.).
- Family or group range trips where everyone has their own labeled can.
- Storing match or defensive ammo separately from bulk plinking ammo.
MTM AC3C – 3-Can Ammo Crate (50 Cal)
The AC3C is similar in concept to the AC4C but uses three larger 50-caliber cans instead of four 30-caliber cans. This makes it a better fit for bulkier ammo or shooters who prefer larger cans with more room.
Key features:
- Three 50-cal style cans with O-ring seals.
- Rugged crate with molded handles for carrying and stacking.
- Designed to support heavier loads and larger calibers.
Best uses:
- Long-range calibers in bulk (.308, 6.5 Creedmoor, etc.).
- Mixed storage: ammo, accessories, and cleaning gear in separate cans.
- Pre-built “go” kits: one crate for rifle, one for shotgun, one for handgun.
MTM Ammo Crate Utility Boxes
MTM ACDC30 – Ammo Crate Divided Utility Box
The ACDC30 is a divided utility box that bridges the gap between an ammo crate and a toolbox. It features internal dividers that make it ideal for organizing different ammo types, accessories, or even non-shooting gear.
Core features:
- Divided internal compartments to keep contents separated.
- O-ring sealed lid for water-resistant storage.
- Built-in handle and rugged latches.
- Flat, stackable profile.
Best uses:
- Mixing different ammo types without cross-contamination.
- Storing tools, cleaning supplies, and ammo in one organized crate.
- Vehicle storage for hunting or training trips.
MTM ACR5-72 – Ammo Crate Utility Box
The ACR5-72 is a larger, flat utility crate built specifically to hold up to 20 boxes of 12-gauge shotshells. This design gives you a compact, stackable way to store a lot of shotgun ammo or similar bulk loads.
Key features:
- Holds up to 20 boxes of 12-gauge shells (72 pounds capacity).
- Heavy-duty side handles for carrying heavier loads.
- O-ring sealed for water-resistant protection.
- Stackable design with molded lower and upper ridges.
Best uses:
- Dedicated shotgun ammo storage for clay, trap, and hunting.
- Flat crate storage in shelves, truck beds, or closets.
- Bulk storage of boxed rifle/pistol ammo if you don’t shoot 12 gauge.
MTM ACR7-18 – Ammo Crate Utility Box (Deep)
The ACR7-18 is a deep utility crate with taller sidewalls, designed for heavier gear and higher-volume storage. It offers more vertical room than the ACR5-72, making it a solid choice for larger items or loose bulk ammo.
Core features:
- Deep utility crate design in “Army Green” or dark earth.
- Rugged polypropylene construction.
- Side carry handles and stackable profile.
- O-ring seal for water-resistant closure.
Best uses:
- High-volume mixed-caliber storage in original boxes.
- Larger shooting accessories, such as targets, muffs, tools, and belts.
- General-purpose gear crate for hunting or camping.
Practical Setup Examples
- Range-day kit: Use an AC4C with each 30-cal can labeled for a specific handgun or rifle caliber, plus an AC15-11 in your range bag for small extras.
- Shotgun shooter’s shelf: Stack two or three ACR5-72 crates and dedicate each to a different shotshell load (clays, field, defense). These crates can be stacked high on shelves to maximize storage space and keep different loads organized and accessible.
- Home storage system: Use AC11 or AC50C cans for bulk ammo and a couple of ACR7-18 crates for boxed ammo and accessories.
- Truck or hunting rig: Keep an ACDC30 in the vehicle with a mix of ammo, tools, and gloves, plus an AC3C in the garage as your bulk storage.
MTM ACDC30 – Ammo Crate Divided Utility Box
- Ideal for easier carry and transport of multi-caliber ammo storage
- Spacious, compartmented interior with 3 removable partitions
- Water-resistant O-Ring seal (non-submersible); Stackable design with tie-down and strap-over points
- Strong snap latches plus 4 padlock tabs; Heavy-lift handles with a 75-lb carrying capacity
- Made in the USA; Inside Dimensions: 17.7”(45cm) x 8.6”(22cm) x 6.6”(17cm); Outside Dimensions: 21”(53cm) x 11.2”(28cm) x 7.5”(19cm)
Why is this worth buying
The MTM ACDC30 is perfect if you want one rugged crate that keeps ammo, tools, and accessories separated and easy to grab. With built-in dividers and an O-ring sealed lid, it’s a hybrid between an ammo crate and a toolbox that works just as well in the garage as it does in the truck.
Key features and benefits
- Divided interior layout keeps calibers, tools, and accessories separated and organized.
- O-ring sealed lid helps keep out moisture, dust, and dirt for better long-term protection.
- Rugged polypropylene construction with strong latches for range, hunting, or vehicle use.
- The flat, stackable profile makes it easy to build shelves or truck-bed storage systems.
- The integrated carry handle makes it easy to grab and go for range days or hunts.
Ideal buyer
- Shooters who want one box for mixed ammo plus tools and cleaning gear.
- Truck or SUV owners who keep a dedicated “range crate” or “hunting crate” in the vehicle.
- Anyone who hates loose parts rolling around and wants clear internal separation.
Why choose this over a standard ammo can?
A standard ammo can is just an open cavity; the ACDC30 gives you true internal organization without buying extra trays or boxes, so everything has a home and stays put.
MTM AC4C – 4-Can Ammo Crate (30 Cal)
- Use this crate for easier carry and transport of multi-caliber ammo storage
- Includes four O-ring sealed 30 Caliber ammo cans (AC30T) for multi-caliber ammo storage
- 30 Caliber ammo cans are a convenient size to store all types of bulk ammo, and will be impossible to tip over in the AC4C
- Stackable and easy to secure with four tie-down spots for ATV attachment
- Outside Dimensions: 23. 5” x 11. 3” x 7. 5”(H); Made in the USA
Why is this worth buying
The MTM AC4C gives you four individual 30-cal cans in a heavy-duty crate, so you get modular storage that still carries as a single unit. It’s one of the best “all-in-one” range and storage systems for multi-caliber shooters.
Key features and benefits
- Includes four removable 30-caliber polymer ammo cans with O-ring seals and latches.
- Heavy-duty outer crate with side carry handles for easy transport.
- Stackable design so multiple AC4C crates can be safely stacked on shelves or in safes.
- Each can can be labeled and dedicated to a specific caliber or purpose.
- Designed to fit in most vehicle trunks and SUV cargo areas.
Ideal buyer
- Shooters with several pistol and rifle calibers who want each separated.
- Families or groups where each shooter can grab “their” can from the crate.
- Anyone building a modular storage system where each crate equals one “loadout.”
Why choose this over loose cans?
Loose cans are easy to misplace and awkward to carry in bulk; the AC4C keeps four cans locked into a single, rigid crate so you can move them as a unit but still pull individual cans when needed.
MTM ACR7-18 – Ammo Crate Utility Box (Deep)
- Carry up to 65 pounds of gear with two strong side handles
- Stackable design and double padlock tabbed for security; Four tie-down points on side
- Water-resistant O-ring seal for dry storage; Non-submersible
- 890 Cubic Inches: Exterior Dimensions: 17.2" x 10.7" x 9.2”(H); Interior Dimensions: 12.4" x 8.4" x 8.5"(H)
- The latches are mounted on the side for easy carrying; Made in the USA
Why is this worth buying?
The MTM ACR7-18 is a deep, high-capacity utility crate designed to swallow a serious amount of ammo, gear, or both. It’s a go-to choice when you’re building long-term storage or need a tough crate for larger equipment.
Key features and benefits
- Deep interior with tall sidewalls for bulk ammo, boxed ammo, and larger accessories.
- O-ring sealed lid helps protect contents from moisture and dirt.
- Rugged polypropylene construction with strong side carry handles.
- Flat, stackable design for neat shelves, safes, or trailer storage.
- Available in “Army Green” or similar tactical-friendly colors.
Ideal buyer
- High-volume shooters with lots of boxed ammo to store.
- Hunters who want one crate to hold ammo, hearing protection, clothing, and tools.
- Preppers building a modular “crate wall” of long-term supplies.
Why choose this over smaller crates?
If you’re tired of juggling multiple small cans, the ACR7-18 consolidates a larger amount of gear into one heavy-duty crate that still stacks cleanly and carries well.
MTM AC50C – 50-Caliber Ammo Can
- Outside Dimensions: 7.4" (L) x 13.5" (W) x 8.5" (H); Inside Dimensions: 5.8" (L) x 11" (W) x 7.2" (H)
- Made of rugged polypropylene plastic; Comfortable handles
- Heavy-duty, dual latching system for a super water-resistant seal
- Double padlock tabs; Stacking ridges
- Excellent choice for basements, garages, or storage sheds; Made in the USA
Why is this worth buying
The MTM AC50C is a plastic 50-caliber-style ammo can that gives you the familiar GI can footprint without the weight and rust issues of steel. It’s a workhorse can that fits into a ton of existing racks and storage systems.
Key features and benefits
- Classic 50-cal form factor for compatibility with standard racks and shelves.
- Rugged polypropylene body that won’t rust, dent, or spark against other metals.
- O-ring sealed lid for water-resistant storage.
- Heavy-duty latch and comfortable carry handle for heavier loads.
- Molded-in stacking ridges for stable stacking with other MTM cans.
Ideal buyer
- Shooters familiar with GI cans who want a lighter, rust-proof alternative.
- Anyone storing mid- to large quantities of rifle or pistol ammo.
- Users who want a general-purpose can that can also carry tools or small gear.
Why choose this over a metal GI can?
You get similar capacity and footprint with less weight, no rust, and quieter handling when loading or unloading around vehicles or safes.
MTM ACR5-72 – Ammo Crate Utility Box
- Carry up to 85 pounds of gear with two strong side handles
- Stackable design and double padlock tabbed for security
- Four tie-down points on the side
- Water-resistant O-ring seal for dry storage
- Exterior Dimensions: 19" x 15.75" x 5.25"(H); Interior Dimensions: 14" x 13.5" x 4.5"(H)
Why is this worth buying
The ACR5-72 is purpose-built for shotgun shooters and high-volume ammo storage, holding up to 20 boxes of 12-gauge shells. If you shoot a lot of clays, trap, or upland birds, this crate is a huge quality-of-life upgrade.
Key features and benefits
- Holds up to 20 boxes of 12-gauge shotshells (around 72 pounds fully loaded).
- Heavy-duty side handles make moving heavy loads safer and more comfortable.
- O-ring-sealed lid for water- and dust-resistant storage.
- Stackable top-and-bottom design for neat rows on shelves or in closets.
- Durable polymer construction withstands truck beds, trailers, and club storage.
Ideal buyer
- Trap, skeet, and sporting clays shooters who buy shotshells by the case.
- Hunters who stock up on multiple loads and brands each season.
- Anyone who wants flat, crate-style storage instead of a pile of loose cardboard cases.
Why choose this over regular cans?
Regular cans are great, but they’re not optimized for boxed shotshells; the ACR5-72 is designed around them, so boxes fit efficiently and stack cleanly with no wasted space.
MTM AC3C – 3-Can Ammo Crate (50 Cal)
- Use this crate with its large handles to easily transport multi-caliber ammo storage
- Includes three MTM 50 caliber ammo cans (AC50C)
- Each ammo can has a water-resistant O-ring seal for dry storage: Non-submersible
- Stackable and easy to strap down with four tie-down spots
- Outside dimensions: 13. 5” x 25. 4” x 8. 9” (H); Made in the USA
Why is this worth buying
The AC3C gives you three large 50-cal cans locked into one rugged crate, making it ideal for larger calibers, bulk ammo, or mixed ammo and gear kits. It’s the “heavy-duty” counterpart to the smaller 30-cal AC4C system.
Key features and benefits
- Includes three removable 50-cal style cans with O-ring seals and secure latches.
- Heavy-duty ammo crate with integrated carry handles and stackable design.
- Designed for heavier loads and larger cartridges or mixed equipment.
- Each can is easy to label and dedicated to a specific caliber or role.
- Great fit for truck beds, range carts, and home shelving.
Ideal buyer
- Long-range shooters store .308, 6.5 Creedmoor, or similar larger rounds.
- Users who want pre-built “rifle crate,” “shotgun crate,” and “pistol crate” systems.
- Anyone wanting a grab-and-go crate setup that still separates contents.
Why choose this over the AC4C?
If you prioritize capacity per can and shoot larger calibers or carry more gear, the AC3C’s bigger 50-cal cans give you more room and higher practical load per slot.
MTM AC11 – Bulk Ammo Can
- Outside dimensions: 8. 75" (L) x 15. 5" (W) x 9" (H). Inside Dimensions: 7. 5" (L) x 13" (W) x 7. 25" (H)
- O-ring seal; ideal container for geocaching
- Designed for stacking
- Rugged polypropylene plastic; Easily handles 30 pounds of gear in an easy-to-transport package
- Durable and moisture resistant; USA Made
Why is this worth buying
The MTM AC11 is a large bulk ammo can that offers a generous interior cavity without turning into a back-breaking brick when full. It’s a great middle ground between smaller cans and massive crates.
Key features and benefits
- Approx. 707 cubic inches of interior volume for bulk ammo, shells, or gear.
- O-ring-sealed lid for water- and dust-resistant storage.
- Dual latches pull the lid down tight for a stronger seal.
- Padlock tabs for adding small locks when needed.
- Stacking ridges allows stable stacking with other AC11 cans.
Ideal buyer
- Shooters who keep bulk 9mm, .223/5.56, or .22LR on hand.
- Anyone who wants one can for a “range loadout” (ammo plus eyes, ears, and cleaning kit).
- Users needing a can that is big but still manageable to carry fully loaded.
Why choose this over the AC50C?
The AC11 focuses on bulk capacity and easy carry in a more “fat can” profile, making it a better fit if you prioritize volume over strict 50-cal footprint compatibility.
MTM AC15-11 – Mini Ammo Can
- Military-style mini ammo can offers dry storage for ammunition, emergency gear, Medical supplies, batteries, tools, boating, and valuables
- Water-resistant O-ring seal for dry storage, Non-submersible
- Heavy-duty latching system makes for a better seal; strong, comfortable handle, and a double padlock tabbed for security
- Designed for stacking and made of rugged polypropylene plastic; 12-pound carry capacity
- Outside dimensions: 8. 4” x 4. 4” x 6. 8” high - inside dimensions: 6. 7” x 3. 4" x 5.9" High; Made in USA
Why is this worth buying
The AC15-11 mini ammo can is built for smaller quantities of ammo or small parts, making it perfect for range bags and compact storage spaces. It’s an easy upgrade over cheap plastic boxes that were never designed for ammo.
Key features and benefits
- Compact, rugged polypropylene body that fits in most range bags and backpacks.
- O-ring sealed lid helps keep moisture and debris away from sensitive contents.
- Strong latch and molded carry handle for grab-and-go use.
- Ideal size for .22LR, .17 HMR, or small pistol calibers.
- Works just as well for small tools, parts, batteries, or EDC spares.
Ideal buyer
- Plinkers and small-caliber shooters who carry modest ammo loads.
- Range-goers who want a dedicated can for just one handgun’s ammo.
- DIYers who want a tough little box for small parts and hardware.
Why choose this over larger cans?
When you only need a couple hundred rounds or a small parts kit, a large can is overkill; the AC15-11 keeps things light, compact, and easy to stash anywhere.
FAQs
Are MTM ammo cans and crates waterproof?
MTM designs its ammo cans and crates with O-ring sealed lids, which make them water-resistant and effective at keeping out moisture, dirt, and dust under normal conditions. They are not intended for long-term submersion.
How much weight can MTM ammo crates hold?
Models like the ACR5-72 are rated to hold up to about 72 pounds or 20 boxes of 12-gauge shells when fully loaded, and they include reinforced side handles to support that weight. Utility crates and crate-and-can combos are built to handle heavy ammo loads, but it’s smart to stay within manufacturer guidelines for comfort and safety.
Are plastic ammo cans as durable as metal GI cans?
MTM’s polypropylene cans and crates are impact-resistant, rust-proof, and lighter than traditional steel GI cans. Metal cans can still be tougher in extreme abuse scenarios, but plastic cans don’t dent, won’t rust, and are often quieter to handle around vehicles and safes.
Do all MTM ammo containers stack?
Most MTM ammo cans and crates are designed with molded-in stacking ridges on the lids and matching feet on the bottoms so they stack securely without sliding. This makes it easy to build vertical storage in safes, closets, and on garage shelving, allowing your ammo storage containers to be stacked high to maximize storage efficiency.
What’s the difference between AC4C and AC3C?
Both are crate-and-can systems, but the AC4C uses four smaller 30-cal cans, while the AC3C uses three larger 50-cal cans. The 30-cal system is better for lighter loads and multi-caliber setups, while the 50-cal system is better for bulk or larger-caliber ammo.
Which MTM box is best for shotgun shells?
The ACR5-72 Ammo Crate Utility Box is specifically designed to hold up to 20 boxes of 12-gauge ammunition and is one of the best options for high-volume shotgun shooters. Shotgun shooters can also use standard cans and crate systems, but the ACR5-72 is purpose-built for boxed shells.
Can I lock MTM ammo cans?
Many MTM cans, such as the AC11 and AC50C, include padlock tabs that let you add small locks for extra security. This is useful for complying with certain local storage guidelines or just for added peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
MTM’s ammo cans and crates are popular because they solve real problems for shooters: they’re lighter than steel, won’t rust, and are purpose-built for safe, stackable, and organized ammo storage. By pairing smaller cans like the AC15-11 and AC11 with larger crates like the ACR5-72 and ACR7-18, you can build a modular system that covers everything from daily range trips to long-term storage at home.
Whether you’re a casual shooter with a few favorite calibers or a serious enthusiast with shelves of ammo, there’s an MTM container designed to fit your setup—especially when you grab them through Amazon for quick delivery and easy reordering as your collection grows. Order today!
