How long do unused shotgun shells last?

[bonefish]

I was doing some cleaning at my parents and I found some game loads my dad hasn't shot in 20 years, and some high brass that are probably at least 10 years old. My guess is that they have been stored in a non-humid closet their whole lives. If they are bad, what's the proper way to dispose of them?

[troutmaster]

shoot em

[Gissert]

They should be fine. I have shot 30 year old shells that were stored properly - no problem.

I have also disposed of some that had corroded brass and bad looking crimps.

Give each shell a good once over before you use them.

[bonefish]

Thanks for the info!

[delmuts]

also as you shoot them. if one doesn't sound right when shot, be sure to check your barrel!