MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box Review

Breaking Down My First Experience with the MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box

For years, I’ve navigated the diverse world of gear, from the controlled environments of a laboratory to the unpredictable demands of outdoor expeditions and the practical grit of workshop projects. This extensive background has instilled in me a keen eye for equipment that not only functions but endures. My recent quest for a more organized and secure method to transport and store rifle ammunition, specifically for cartridges with substantial case lengths, led me to the MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box. MTM is a brand I’ve encountered before, generally associated with sturdy, no-nonsense storage solutions.

The impetus for this purchase was a growing frustration with flimsy cardboard boxes and the less-than-ideal capacities of smaller plastic containers. I needed something robust that could reliably hold a significant quantity of ammunition, particularly for magnum and extra-long cartridges like those in the WSM (Winchester Short Magnum) and WSSM (Winchester Super Short Magnum) families, but also for others that push the limits of conventional boxes. My initial impressions upon unboxing this particular MTM offering were positive; it felt substantial, constructed from what appeared to be a durable, resilient plastic. I had briefly considered some generic alternatives, but MTM’s reputation for producing reliable gun-related accessories swayed my decision. My first reaction was one of practical optimism, a sense that this might indeed be the enduring solution I was seeking for my ammunition management needs.

Real-World Testing: Putting MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this MTM ammo box were primarily the shooting range and my personal reloading bench. I wanted to see how it handled the very cartridges it was ostensibly designed for, as well as similar, longer rounds. The MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box was tested with 300 WSM, 270 WSM, and even some .300 Winchester Magnum rounds. Loading the box for the first time was straightforward; the individual compartments are designed to cradle each cartridge securely.

During initial loading, I noticed that while the WSM cartridges fit perfectly, the longer .300 Win Mag rounds presented a slight challenge. The specific ribbing inside the lid, intended to secure the bullets, interfered with the overall length and profile of some of these longer cartridges. This interference created a noticeable pressure when closing the lid. I also experienced a peculiar issue with some un-crimped 300 WM loads; the pressure exerted by the lid was significant enough to cause the bullets to seat slightly deeper into their cases, altering the overall length of the cartridge. This was an unexpected and concerning quirk for ammunition storage intended to protect and maintain cartridge integrity.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of intermittent use, the MTM box has held up structurally. It has been transported in and out of my range bag, sat on my reloading bench, and endured ambient workshop conditions. The polypropylene construction has resisted scuffs and impacts from minor drops onto concrete surfaces, which speaks to its inherent toughness. The hinges have remained firm, and the latch mechanism continues to engage securely, showing no signs of loosening or wear.

However, the core issue with accommodating longer cartridges persists. While it reliably stores WSM rounds, I have largely relegated it to that specific purpose. For any cartridge exceeding roughly 2.9 inches overall length, I would hesitate to use it without reservation due to the lid pressure concerns. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed, making it easy to keep clean. Compared to the cardboard boxes it replaced, its durability and reusability are vastly superior, but its utility is definitely limited by cartridge length, a factor I hadn’t fully appreciated from the initial description.

Breaking Down the Features of MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box

Specifications

The MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box boasts a considerable 100-round capacity, specifically tailored for rifle cartridges. Constructed from virtually indestructible polypropylene, it is designed for longevity and resistance to environmental factors. The dimensions are optimized to hold a significant number of rounds, and the green color is a common, practical choice for ammunition storage, often denoting specific calibers or purposes.

The key specification here is its intended caliber range, which the product details suggest can accommodate cartridges from .22-250 all the way up to .375 H&H Mag. The ability to store bullets either up or down for most calibers is a design feature aimed at versatility. The 10-year guarantee on hinge products from MTM provides a solid assurance of the quality and expected lifespan of a critical component.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary function of holding ammunition, the MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box performs adequately for its intended WSM and similar sized cartridges. The individual slots provide good separation and protection, preventing cartridges from rattling against each other excessively. For cartridges within its optimal length range, it offers a secure and organized storage solution, far superior to flimsy cardboard packaging.

However, its performance falters when attempting to house longer cartridges, as detailed in my personal testing. The ribbed lid design, while effective for shorter rounds, creates excessive pressure on longer bullets when the box is closed. This pressure can lead to bullet setback, a critical issue for handloaders or anyone concerned with precise ammunition dimensions and safety. For cartridges like the .300 Winchester Magnum or .375 Ruger, this limitation significantly hampers its functionality and raises concerns about ammunition integrity.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box is undeniably robust and functional for its intended purpose. The polypropylene material feels solid, providing confidence that it can withstand the rigors of transport and storage. The latch mechanism is robust and clicks shut with a satisfying firmness, ensuring the box remains securely closed.

Ergonomically, it’s straightforward: open the lid, place the rounds in their designated spots, and close the lid. There’s no complex learning curve. The textured surface of the lid offers a decent grip for opening, even with gloves on. The individual slots are molded precisely to hold cartridges upright, preventing them from tipping over. However, the design of the lid’s interior, with its prominent ribs, proves to be a significant ergonomic and functional drawback for longer cartridges.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box demonstrates excellent durability for its construction material. The polypropylene is resistant to cracking and breakage, even when subjected to moderate impacts. The hinges, a common point of failure in lesser boxes, appear to be very well-made and have a generous guarantee from MTM.

Maintenance is practically non-existent. A quick rinse or wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s required to keep it clean and free of dust or debris. There are no complex mechanisms to worry about, no parts that require lubrication. The primary concern regarding durability and long-term use isn’t a breakdown of the box itself, but rather the limitation on the types of ammunition it can reliably and safely house without issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific MTM ammo box does not come with any additional accessories. Its design is a self-contained unit focused on ammunition storage. There are no obvious customization options for the box itself, beyond perhaps applying labels to identify its contents.

However, MTM does produce a wide array of other ammunition storage solutions, including boxes for handguns, shotshells, and even specialized cases for reloading components. While this particular model doesn’t offer built-in customization, its compatibility with other MTM organizational systems could be considered a form of ecosystem integration for a dedicated user. For this 100-round box, the focus is entirely on its core capacity and protection.

Pros and Cons of MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box

Who Should Buy MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box?

This MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box is an excellent choice for rifle shooters who primarily use Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) or Winchester Super Short Magnum (WSSM) cartridges, or other rounds with similar case lengths and overall dimensions. Reloaders who meticulously control their cartridge OAL (Overall Length) and wish to maintain that precision for these specific calibers will appreciate its secure cradling. It’s also a solid option for range enthusiasts who need to transport 100 rounds of these calibers safely and efficiently.

However, shooters who frequently handle longer magnum cartridges like the .300 Winchester Magnum, .338 Lapua Magnum, or .375 H&H Magnum should look elsewhere. Those requiring a truly universal long rifle cartridge box might find this model too restrictive. If you are a benchrest shooter or precision competitor where even minor bullet setback can impact accuracy, this box is likely not the ideal solution for your magnum loads. For those needing more universal long rifle storage, MTM does offer other models that may better suit a wider range of calibers.

Conclusion on MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box

The MTM 100 Round WSM/WSSM Green Rifle Ammo Box is a product that excels within a defined niche but struggles when pushed beyond it. For shooters who predominantly use WSM or similarly sized cartridges, this box offers robust protection, excellent organization, and the peace of mind that comes with MTM’s reputation for durable products. The 100-round capacity is substantial, and the polypropylene construction ensures it will last for years, backed by that impressive hinge guarantee.

However, the critical flaw lies in its inability to reliably accommodate longer rifle cartridges without potentially compromising ammunition integrity. The pressure from the ribbed lid can cause undesirable bullet seating, a significant concern for accuracy and safety. While the price point of $21.99 for a 100-round capacity box is quite reasonable, especially considering its build quality, its limited versatility diminishes its overall value for a broader audience. I would recommend this box without hesitation to those whose ammunition needs align perfectly with its dimensions. For everyone else, it’s worth carefully measuring your longest cartridges and comparing them against the known dimensions of WSM rounds before making a purchase, or opting for a more universally sized rifle ammo box.