Why should ammunition not be exposed to sunlight?

Ammunition should not be exposed to sunlight primarily because prolonged heat exposure can adversely affect its ballistics. High temperatures can lead to changes in the propellant's characteristics, which might alter the performance of the ammunition when fired. This can result in decreased accuracy, altered range, and unpredictable ballistic behavior, all of which are critical for safe and effective usage.

In addition, excessive heat can degrade the materials used in ammunition casing and components, which may lead to malfunctions during operation. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate storage environment that protects ammunition from direct sunlight and heat is essential to ensure its reliability and performance during use.