US Navy 40mm Ammo Can

Finding authentic military surplus storage that combines genuine naval heritage with uncompromising durability isn’t easy—but this original US Navy 40mm ammo can delivers exactly what serious collectors and outdoor enthusiasts demand. Built to protect 40mm anti-aircraft ammunition in combat conditions, this heavy-duty steel container now serves as the ultimate weatherproof storage solution for anyone who refuses to settle for civilian-grade equipment.

40mm Ammo Can Naval Combat Specifications

This authentic 40mm ammo can was engineered to military standards for the legendary Bofors anti-aircraft system that defended Allied vessels throughout WWII and beyond. Originally designed to house 16 cartridges of 40mm HE-P MK2 (High-Explosive, Projectile Mark 2) ammunition weighing approximately 4.75 pounds each.

• Heavy-Duty Steel Construction: Military-grade steel body built to withstand harsh marine environments and combat conditions
• Completely Removable Lid Design: Full-access top removes entirely—no hinges to break or limit access to contents
• Rubber O-Ring Gasket: Original military sealing system creates truly water-tight and air-tight protection
• Generous Storage Capacity: 22″ × 12″ × 11-1/2″ dimensions provide optimal medium-bulk storage space
• Authentic Military Finish: Original olive drab paint with expected military wear patterns and markings
• Fold-Down Carrying Handles: Side-mounted handles for secure transport and efficient stacking
• NSN: 1310-00-030-1182

Why Collectors Choose This Ammo Box Over Reproductions

Your collection deserves equipment that actually served—not commercial reproductions that merely look the part.

1. Documented Military Provenance: Each container carries authentic service history from US Navy operations, making it a genuine piece of naval artillery heritage
   (Pictured can stamped “U.S. Navy Bureau of Ordnance Ammunition Box 40mm MK.1 MOD 5” and “1946”. Yours may vary.)
2. Superior Construction Standards: Built to protect live 40mm HE-P MK2 cartridges in combat zones, this metal ammo box exceeds any civilian storage container’s durability requirements
3. Investment Value: Finite surplus quantities mean authentic naval ammunition containers appreciate over time, especially units with clear markings
4. Perfect Display Scale: Ideal size for showcasing alongside other WWII naval artifacts without overwhelming display spaces
5. Functional Authenticity: Unlike replica containers, this Navy ammo box maintains its original sealing effectiveness and structural integrity

Restoration and Care Guidelines

Maximize your surplus container’s longevity and appearance with proper military surplus restoration techniques.

Start by cleaning with mild soap and water to remove storage dust and surface grime. Inspect the rubber gasket for flexibility—original seals often remain functional after decades. For paint touch-ups, use military-specification olive drab to maintain authenticity, though many collectors prefer the natural patina of service wear.

Check the lid alignment and adjust if necessary by gently reshaping the container edges. Store in a dry location when not in use to prevent any interior moisture buildup, even though the military construction resists corrosion better than civilian alternatives.

Perfect for Military Collectors & History Enthusiasts

This 40mm ammo can represents everything serious collectors value: authentic military service, proven battlefield reliability, and the substantial feel of equipment built without compromise. Whether you’re completing a WWII naval display, need emergency preparedness storage that actually works, or want a conversation piece with genuine historical significance, this ammunition container delivers the authenticity that separates real collectors from casual hobbyists. The original military specifications mean you’re getting storage protection that was trusted with live ordnance—your gear deserves nothing less.

US Navy 40mm Ammunition Box Collector’s Guide

What condition should I expect from surplus ammunition cans?

These metal ammunition boxes show honest military use including paint chips, minor dents, possible spray paint markings, and surface wear. This patina proves authenticity—perfect mint-condition surplus is extremely rare and often indicates reproduction items.

How can I verify this is genuine US Navy surplus?

Look for the original contract markings, military stenciling, and heavy steel construction that civilian reproductions cannot match. The rubber gasket system and completely removable lid design are specific to military specifications for storing 40mm HE-P MK2 ammunition.

Will this container actually keep contents dry and secure?

Absolutely. The military rubber gasket creates a genuine waterproof seal when properly closed. This storage container was designed to protect sensitive ammunition in marine environments—your equipment will stay completely dry and secure.

What’s the difference between this and modern ammo cans?

This authentic 40mm ammo can features the unique full-removal lid design and larger capacity that modern military containers don’t offer. The naval heritage and WWII-era construction methods create a distinctly different feel and functionality.

Are the military markings and graphics guaranteed to match the photos?

Military surplus varies by individual unit—markings, stenciling, and wear patterns differ between containers. Each piece carries its own unique service history, making every container slightly different from others.

Your collection deserves equipment with real military heritage and proven performance. Add this authentic US Navy 40mm ammo can to your cart now and own a genuine piece of naval artillery history that continues serving with the same reliability it provided in combat!

Note: If you plan to use this surplus can for air- and water-tight mission-critical uses, please let us know so we can make sure the one we send you doesn’t have a compromising dent near the gasket. We can’t promise perfect functionality for your purpose but it helps to know your needs in advance.