What Led Me to Try the MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10
As someone who has spent over a decade wrestling with gear in every conceivable environment – from the controlled chaos of a workshop to the unforgiving expanse of the outdoors – I’ve learned to appreciate the quiet competence of well-designed equipment. My quest for an organized and protected way to transport ammunition for my more specialized handgun calibers led me to the MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10. The need arose from a persistent annoyance: loose cartridges rattling around my range bag, risking damage or misfires. While generic plastic containers offer basic containment, they rarely provide adequate protection against the elements or secure enough closure for peace of mind. I briefly considered larger, more robust hunting-style ammo cans, but their bulk and over-engineering for my specific needs felt unnecessary. This MTM box, with its promise of compact capacity and dedicated caliber support, felt like a targeted solution, and my initial impression of its opaque green polypropylene construction was one of practical simplicity.
Real-World Testing: Putting MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial tests for this MTM ammo box involved packing it for a trip to the local indoor range. I loaded it with freshly reloaded .50 Action Express rounds, noting how neatly each cartridge settled into its designated slot. The secure, flip-top design felt reassuringly positive as I snapped it shut, a stark contrast to the flimsy closures I’d experienced elsewhere. Despite the usual hustle and bustle of a busy range day, including jostling my gear bag on and off the shooting bench, the box held its contents securely. There was no need for a lengthy acclimatization period; the intuitive design meant it was ready for action the moment I unpacked it. My only minor surprise was how compact it felt, even when full, making it an unobtrusive addition to my existing kit.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months, this specific MTM ammo box has become a staple for my range visits, holding its own against repeated loading and unloading cycles. The durable polypropylene construction has shown no signs of cracking or becoming brittle, even after being accidentally dropped onto a concrete floor during a hasty pack-up. I’ve also subjected it to the light moisture that can accumulate on a damp range bench without any adverse effects on the ammunition inside. Compared to the cheap, disposable plastic boxes I’ve used in the past, which often developed stress marks or lost their latch integrity, this MTM model has proven significantly more resilient. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth, making post-shoot maintenance a breeze.
Breaking Down the Features of MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10
Specifications
The MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10 is engineered to hold an impressive 64 rounds of specialized handgun ammunition. It is specifically designed for calibers like the .50 Action Express, .475 Linebaugh, and .500 Linebaugh, ensuring a snug and secure fit for each cartridge. The box is constructed from opaque green polypropylene, a material known for its excellent resistance to impact, chemicals, and UV light. This polypropylene barrel offers a robust barrier against environmental factors that can degrade ammunition over time.
The capacity of 64 rounds is a sweet spot for many shooting sessions, providing ample ammunition without the bulk of larger storage solutions. This is particularly advantageous when compared to generic small-caliber boxes, which might not accommodate the longer overall length of these powerful handgun cartridges. The durable polypropylene construction means you can expect this container to withstand the rigors of transport and handling for years to come.
Performance & Functionality
This MTM ammo box excels at its primary function: safely and securely storing ammunition for potent handgun cartridges. The individual cradles hold each round firmly in place, preventing any unwanted movement or contact between cartridges, which is crucial for maintaining primer integrity and preventing case damage. The secure, flip-top design with its positive locking mechanism ensures that the box remains closed even when subjected to significant jostling or vibration. I experienced no instances of rounds coming loose or the lid popping open during my testing period.
Its main strength lies in its specialized design for these larger-caliber rounds, something many generic boxes fail to accommodate adequately. While budget alternatives might hold cartridges loosely, this specific MTM model offers a precise fit, providing superior protection and organization. A potential area for improvement might be the introduction of a heavier-duty latch for even more extreme environments, though for typical range use, the current mechanism is more than sufficient.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10 prioritizes functionality and durability. The opaque green polypropylene material not only offers protection from light but also gives the box a robust, utilitarian feel. Its matte finish provides a good grip, even with slightly sweaty hands, preventing accidental slips.
The flip-top design is straightforward and intuitive; a simple press of the integrated latch allows the lid to swing open smoothly, revealing the organized rows of cartridges. The ergonomic considerations are evident in its compact size, which allows it to fit neatly into most range bags or even larger coat pockets. There’s no complex mechanism or learning curve involved; it’s ready to go right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10 is built for longevity. The polypropylene barrel is inherently resistant to cracking and impact, and the hinges and latch mechanism appear to be robust enough for countless open-and-close cycles. I anticipate this box will easily last for several years of regular use, far outperforming flimsier alternatives.
Maintenance is practically non-existent. A quick rinse under water or a wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. Its resistance to moisture and debris means that internal cleaning is rarely an issue. There are no complex parts that require lubrication or special attention, making it a truly low-maintenance piece of gear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10 comes as a standalone unit, without any included accessories. Its design is focused on being a dedicated ammo carrier, and as such, there are no inherent customization options built into the box itself. However, its compact and modular nature means you can easily carry multiple such boxes together, effectively increasing your ammunition capacity without adding excessive bulk.
Pros and Cons of MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10
Pros
- Designed specifically for large-caliber handgun rounds like .50 Action Express, .475, and .500 Linebaugh, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Holds 64 rounds, offering substantial capacity for its compact size.
- Constructed from durable polypropylene, providing excellent protection against impact, moisture, and UV light.
- Secure, flip-top design with a reliable latch that keeps the box firmly closed during transport.
- Opaque green color helps shield ammunition from light, potentially extending its shelf life.
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to fit into a range bag.
Cons
- Limited to specific large handgun calibers, making it unsuitable for other ammunition types.
- No integrated carrying handle, though its size makes this a minor inconvenience for most users.
Who Should Buy MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10?
This MTM ammo box is an ideal choice for handgun owners who frequently shoot or reload calibers such as the .50 Action Express, .475 Linebaugh, and .500 Linebaugh. It is perfect for range enthusiasts, competitive shooters, or handloaders who need a reliable and organized way to transport their ammunition. Those who value durability and protection for their valuable cartridges will find this box to be a superb investment.
Anyone primarily using smaller caliber handguns or rifle ammunition should look at MTM’s extensive range of other specialized ammo boxes. This particular model would be over-engineered and inappropriate for calibers like 9mm or .223 Remington. For enhanced portability with multiple boxes, consider a small utility pouch or dedicated range bag that can accommodate several of these units comfortably.
Conclusion on MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10
The MTM Express Ammo Box .50 Action Express, .475 and .500 Linebaugh Green P64-50-10 is a purpose-built solution that delivers exactly what it promises: secure, organized, and protected storage for a specific set of high-powered handgun cartridges. Its durable polypropylene construction, smart design, and capacity make it a standout choice in a crowded market of ammo containers. At a price point of $8.79, the value offered is exceptional, providing peace of mind and superior protection for your ammunition. I wholeheartedly recommend this MTM ammo box to anyone who shoots these specialized calibers and is looking for a practical, reliable, and long-lasting storage solution. It’s a small investment that pays significant dividends in organization and ammo preservation.