WHOA! whatta smell...

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Sgt.Dusk

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Just opened up a can (metallic winebottle can) where I stored
my lubed .38spl's.
There was this really "nice" smellin mold(or some green stuff) all over.
The mold was mostly in the lubed part of cases.
Should I not be storing cases in closed can when lubed?
Is the Lee lube causing that or could it be some strange galvanic reaction
caused by the "copper colored metal" inside the can?
Those cases had been in the can for only 2weeks or some
 
I would vote for a chemical reaction taking place. I store primed cases in the plastic shoe boxes with lids that can be found at Family Dollar store or Dollar General store for .99. I have dozens of them to store my brass.
 
Could it be that residue from a copper jacket (since it is only on the inside) is tarnishing (copper turns green). I lube a lot of my pistol brass with one shot lube spray it on then while I load primers set up my cherge and get everything ready it is dry and ready to go. not necessary but does make for a smoother run of the press.
Have a buddy that uses sizing wax on everything he loads as he is inspecting every case every time he rubs a little on it. his press runs like a hot knife thru melted butter, but I just don't go to that extreme.
 
I'm not sure about your problem, but I can give you a tip on how to avoid oxidation in longterm storage. Fill up your ammo can, then place a large chunk of "dry ice" (frozen carbon dioxide) over the top (sitting on a couple sticks spanning the opening). Wait until the dry ice is completely evaporated, then gently and carefully close the bucket. The CO2 is heavier than atmospheric air (oxygen in particular) and it will crowd it out of the ammo can.

It is best if you first verify that your ammo cans are air tight. Also I would only do this outdoors... the CO2 will pool in the bottom of a room -- right where your dog/cat might be sleeping!

PS - This also works with grain storage in 5-gallon food storage containers (like paint buckets). Most grocery stores have dry ice on hand.
 
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