How to Paint Ammo Cans

Ammo cans are metal boxes used by the military to store ammunition, but they are also used in the outdoor sport of geocaching. The boxes are sturdy and waterproof, meaning they can remain outdoors and even be buried in the ground. Ammo boxes are often painted camouflage colors so they blend in with the surrounding environment. This disguises the box and makes it a little more challenging to find during geocaching events.

Things You'll Need

  • Fine-grit sandpaper
  • Cloth
  • Degreasing cleaner
  • Bucket
  • Neutral color matte spray paint
  • Neutral color textured spray paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the surface of the ammo box for any signs of rust and remove them with a fine-grit sandpaper.

    • 2

      Apply 1 tbsp. of a degreasing cleaner to a cloth and wipe down the entire outer and inner surface of the ammo box to remove any dirt, grease and grime. Apply additional cleaner to the cloth as necessary, depending on the size of your ammo box.

    • 3

      Turn a bucket over so that it is face down and place it in an outdoor location or an indoor location appropriate for painting.

    • 4

      Set the ammo box on top of the bucket and open any latches on the box by pulling them upward with your hand. Do not lift up the lid of the ammo box, only the latches.

    • 5

      Shake up a can of matte paint in a neutral outdoor color, such as green or tan, and hold the nozzle 6 to 10 inches away from the ammo box. Start spraying the top of the ammo box with short side-to-side motions. When you complete the top, paint the sides and back of the box.

    • 6

      Lift up on the handle with one hand and spray the front of the ammo box with the paint. When you finish, gently lower the handle back down and spray paint the handle with the paint as well.

    • 7

      Allow the paint to dry for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.

    • 8

      Shake up a can of textured paint in a different neutral shade, such as dark brown. Hold the can at least 12 inches from the ammo box and create small spots of color over the surface of the box, but do not cover it completely. This will further disguise the box and create a camouflage appearance.