Should inert fuzed projectiles be stored with fuzes removed?

[Falcon]

I have heard that some collectors believe that any inert projectile with a fuze should be stored with the fuze separate.

This is in case the items are ever seized by the authorities. I was told that they will treat anything with a fuze in place as potentially live and will destroy it.

It is supposedly deemed as unnecessary risk to try to remove the fuzes to confirm that the item is inert. Is that correct or just rumours?

Some smaller modern inert TP projectiles from 20-35mm calibre are fitted with aluminium dummy fuzes from the factory. These are usually not possible to remove without damage.

 

[BMG50]

I usually put some BBs in the shell casing so it rattles about or leave the fuze half screwed in. What i do see is Grenade collectors fitting dummy dets in the fuze pocket. All well and good until the EOD turn up. Aparently i heard that if a base plug is screwed a certain way out as if there was a det in place they consider it live. Remember they will not take any chances even if its inert, Health and Safety etc. With SAA put a BB in the case before a head if fitted so it rattles. Best to do what ever you can, last thing you don't want is a visit.

 

[microplastic]

the easiest way: make a cutaway. clearly visible, that there is no Danger

I know a seller, where the authorities confiscated severel items and they destroyed any item they weren't sure it was harmless. He sold those investigated items, and yes, no consideration was given to dismantling the items. At least he got the destroyed items back.

 

[AMMOTECHXT]

One of the snippets I read about the desert war in WW2 was that some German gunners had a nasty surprise after they took back some of their own artillery ammunition in an area recaptured from the British. Some shells had been tampered with and these detonated on firing. Can't have been very good for the morale of the gunners.
With regard to cartridge cases I have heard of people drilling small holes in the sides to demonstrate the ammo was inert, though it's probably better to put inside something that rattles rather than damage the cartridge case. What I have done in the past, for example with .50, is to fit a fired bullet (rifling still visible) into a fired cartridge case. An old nut or ball bearing inside probably wouldn't have hurt.

 

[US-Subs]

This is all dependent upon your local authorities, their education and background, and the level of effort you have taken to communicate with them in advance. A little knowledge that you are a collector and the confidence that you are on the right side of things can go a long way in preventing misunderstandings and loss. I have communication on two levels. I do extensive work and training at my collection with all of the regional bomb squads. At the same time, this is not involving the local authorities in any way. For them I have made repeated efforts to communicate with the local police chief, fire chief, and county sheriff. All have been invited to visit and have toured the collection, frequently with other officers in tow. At this time I answer any questions, etc. It is important to note, however, that these positions change over time, and the replacements need the same courtesy. Relying on contact made with someone that retired 2-3 years ago doesn't work well.