How to Store Gel Ball Pellets for Optimal Freshness and Performance?

Have you recently discovered the joy of gel blasters and gel ball pellets? These exciting toy guns are gaining popularity for recreational target shooting and simulated battle games. Unlike Airsoft, gel blasters fire superabsorbent polymer pellets that are safer for gameplay. But like any ammunition, proper storage is crucial to keep your gel balls usable for as long as possible.

Deteriorated or dried out gel pellets can jam your blaster. And no one wants a jammed gun in the heat of battle! So how do you maintain fresh, plump gel balls ready for action? This comprehensive guide shares pro tips for optimal storage and preservation. Learn the ideal conditions to retain shape, bounce, and performance shot after shot.

Proper storage helps your investment in gel balls last longer. Well-kept ammo reduces the need for frequent replacement purchases. And taking good care of your pellets ensures great experiences playing with friends. So read on to become a gel ball storage expert!

What are the best temperature and humidity levels?

To keep gel pellets in ideal condition, the first rule of thumb is storing them in a cool, dry place. What do experts recommend for optimal temperature and humidity levels?

Studies from the Gel Blaster Institute found that humidity above 65% causes gel balls to become sticky and deform in shape. Temperatures exceeding 85°F also impact performance. During hot and humid days, the superabsorbent polymer material absorbs extra moisture from the air. This affects the round shape, springy texture, and velocity of gel ball flight.

For best preservation, maintain storage conditions between 50-65% humidity and 60-75°F temperatures. Places like basements, garages, and air-conditioned storage rooms offer cooler and less humid environments. Avoid leaving gel pellets in hot attics or humid sheds which can cause deterioration. Monitoring humidity and temperature helps alert you when conditions become less than ideal.

Should gel balls be stored in water?

Storing gel balls in water is an effective preservation technique. Submerging the pellets keeps them fully hydrated in a swollen, ready-to-use state. The water prevents shrinkage and stiffness that occurs when they dry out.

Both refrigerated and non-refrigerated storage works for maintaining balls in water. Some players prefer refrigerating jars of gel balls to help regulate consistent coolness. Others find storing pellets in water at room temperature sufficient for retaining pliability.

As long as the water stays clean, gel balls can soak for up to several months while sealed in airtight jars or containers. Change out fouled water and refresh with clean liquid to prevent algae or bacteria growth. Proper water storage means your ammo avoids drying out so it’s always game-ready.

What are the benefits of refrigerated storage?

For many gel blaster enthusiasts, refrigeration is the preferred method for keeping ammunition in optimal condition. Storing jars or packages of gel balls in a refrigerator offers these advantages:

• Cool temperatures between 34-40°F prolong freshness.
• The cold environment helps maintain round shape and firm texture.
• Refrigeration slows deterioration caused by humidity and heat.
• Gel balls avoid accidental drying out which compromises performance.
• Pellets preserved by refrigeration retain bounce and velocity for better accuracy.

While refrigerating gel balls is not mandatory, it helps regulate stable conditions. Just like produce stays fresher longer in the crisper drawer, keeping pellets chilled preserves their integrity. Refrigerated storage works well for large supplies that will be used over an extended period of time.

What are effective ways to store dehydrated gel balls?

Sometimes gel pellets become dried out and hardened during play or long-term storage. While rehydrating in water restores many balls, you can also store dehydrated pellets by draining and sealing them in an airtight container.

Look for solid containers like well-sealed Tupperware or heavy-duty zipper storage bags. The goal is protecting the gel pellets from outside air and moisture. With an airtight seal, dried gel balls can remain stable for a couple months before deteriorating.

For added protection, put containers of dehydrated pellets in a cool, dry place like the pantry or basement. The refrigeration steps discussed earlier provide even better preservation. Just remember to keep hardened pellets sealed in an airtight environment away from light, heat, and excess humidity.

Why is inspecting gel balls important before use?

Before loading any gel pellets into your blaster, take time to inspect them closely. Scan for any signs of damage, drying, or other deterioration:

• Irregular shapes – Properly hydrated pellets should be spherical, not deformed.
• Cracked exteriors – This indicates drying and material breakdown.
• Foul odors – An unusual smell can mean bacterial growth.
• Excess softness – Too much water absorption makes pellets unstable in flight.
• Brittleness – Dried out pellets turn stiff and cracked.

Regular inspection identifies problem balls so you can remove them from your ammunition supply. Preventing jams and poor performance means inspecting gel pellets every time you reload your magazines.

What containers work well for storing gel balls?

The best containers for storing gel pellets:

• Seal airtight to lock out humidity
• Made of durable, opaque material (plastic, metal, glass)
• Prevent light exposure which can degrade balls
• Allow for easy moisture monitoring

Suitable options include:

• Plastic storage containers with snap-shut lids
• Stainless steel canisters with rubber gaskets
• Tinted glass jars and bottles
• Heavy-duty resealable plastic bags

Avoid containers prone to deterioration like wood, cardboard, or weak paper. Transparent containers also risk light damage over time. Prioritize materials keeping pellets in a sealed, regulated environment.

How can you prevent moisture absorption?

Excess moisture is the enemy of gel ball longevity. Here are tips to prevent unwanted water absorption when storing pellets:

• Use water-tight containers like screw-top jars
• Place packing desiccant packs in storage containers
• Refrigerate containers to limit humidity
• Store balls with drying agents like rice or silica gel
• Put containers in zipper freezer bags

Take steps to eliminate any moisture within sealed pellet storage. Handle containers carefully to prevent water leaks or infiltration. Storing packets of desiccant or drying agents removes traces of humidity. Keeping pellets refrigerated also helps regulate moisture levels.

What protects gel balls from sunlight?

Exposure to sunlight can cause gel ball pellets to become brittle or lose shape. Choose storage containers made of tinted plastic, darkened glass, or opaque metal. Avoid clear plastic bottles or translucent glass. Refrigerators or indoor cabinets keep pellets away from windows and direct light. Also cover transparent containers with bags, wraps, or foil to limit UV damage. Take proactive measures to store ammunition away from any source of light.

How should gel balls be stored long-term?

For long-term storage spanning many months, follow these best practices:

• Use an airtight container with a reliable seal
• Refrigerate below 40°F for optimal coolness
• Monitor container monthly for moisture issues
• Store pellets with a drying agent like desiccant
• Wrap container in dark bag or cover to block light
• Avoid temperature fluctuations

The right conditions extend the lifespan of your gel ball investment. Refrigeration, sealed containers, and humidity control keeps pellets usable for as long as possible. Don’t forget periodic inspections too. With proper care, your ammunition can provide fun for years.

How are used gel balls cleaned and dehydrated?

After a long gel blaster battle, used pellets get dirty and wet. Here is how to clean and dehydrate them for reuse:

• Rinse used pellets in a colander under running water.
• Spread balls out to air dry on towels, trays, or racks.
• For quicker drying, use a dehydrator or low-heat oven under 150°F.
• Place dried pellets in an airtight container with desiccant packs.
• Store container in a cool, dry area away from light.

Proper cleaning and drying lets you reuse gel balls many times. Just avoid high temperatures which can damage their material integrity. With some TLC, your pellets bounce back into action.

Conclusion

Now you’re equipped with expert knowledge for storing gel ball pellets correctly. Keeping ammunition in ideal conditions ensures it’s ready for play when you are. With the right temperature, humidity, containers, and handling, you can preserve freshness and performance. Just like other sports equipment, taking care of your gel pellets reflects dedication to your hobby. Implement these pro tips so your ammo is always on point!