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Surplus

U.S. Military Surplus Waterproof Food Grade 58 Gallon Barrel Used

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

U.s. Military

Issue barrel originally used to

Food-grade Orange

HDPE plastic construction

58-gallon Capacity

For emergency food prep, storage,

42 Inches

23-inch diameter; dimensions may vary

12.75-inch Opening

For access and filling

$134.99
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SKU: WX2*0703801

Overview

This used military surplus barrel is a practical option for hunters, campers, and anyone building out emergency storage or utility space. Originally used by U.S. Military Food Service Operations to transport and store olives, it offers 58 gallons of food-grade storage once cleaned, making it suitable for emergency food prep, gear storage, or other project use. Its orange HDPE construction and large opening support a range of repurposing ideas, including rainwater collection with modifications. Condition details vary, and some barrels include a gasket while others do not, so it is best suited for buyers comfortable with surplus-grade variability.

Why Hunters Choose the Surplus

58-gallon Capacity

Supports emergency food prep or

U.s. Military

Food-grade HDPE construction

Originally Used

To transport and store olives

Large 12.75-inch

Opening simplifies filling and access

Can Be

Adapted for a backyard rain

Key Features

  • U.S. military issue barrel originally used to transport and store olives.
  • Food-grade orange HDPE plastic construction.
  • 58-gallon capacity for emergency food prep, storage, or gear.
  • 42 inches tall with 23-inch diameter; dimensions may vary.
  • 12.75-inch opening for access and filling.
  • Shipped without a box; some barrels include a gasket and some do not.

Best Used For

  • Emergency food storage for hunters building a large-capacity prep reserve
  • Backyard rainwater collection for users wanting a simple, low-cost barrel
  • Gear storage for camps, sheds, or garages needing 58-gallon volume
  • DIY project base for outdoorsmen modifying a durable surplus container
  • Users comfortable cleaning surplus equipment before putting it into service

Specifications

Capacity58 gallons
ConditionUsed
Diameter23 in
Dimensions May VaryYes
Food GradeYes
Gasket IncludedSome have the gasket and some do not
Height42 in
MaterialOrange HDPE food grade plastic
Military IssueU.S. military issue
Opening Diameter12.75 in
Original UseTransport and store olives
Shipped Without Shipping BoxYes
WaterproofYes
Weight256 oz

Pros

  • 58-gallon capacity supports emergency food prep or gear storage after cleaning.
  • U.S. military issue barrel with food-grade HDPE construction.
  • Originally used to transport and store olives.
  • Large 12.75-inch opening simplifies filling and access.
  • Can be adapted for a backyard rain barrel with modifications.
  • Affordable foundation for storage and utility projects.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • Used condition means cosmetic wear and prior service history should be expected, even after cleaning.
  • Dimensions may vary, so fit and placement should be checked before planning a specific setup.
  • It ships without a box, which may matter if you need cleaner handling or storage on arrival.
  • Some barrels include a gasket and some do not, so sealing capability is not guaranteed without inspection.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Food storage containers
  • Rain barrels
  • Emergency water storage containers
  • Utility storage drums

Suggested Accessories

  • Food-grade storage container
  • Rain barrel conversion kit
  • Bulk dry-goods storage bin
  • Replacement gasket

Frequently Asked Questions

What was this barrel originally used for?

It was used by the U.S. Military Food Service Operations group to transport and store olives.

How much storage does it provide?

Each barrel provides 58 gallons of storage after cleaning.

What are the listed dimensions?

The listed dimensions are 42 inches tall by 23 inches in diameter, with a 12.75-inch opening. The description also notes that dimensions may vary.

Is this barrel food grade?

Yes. It is described as U.S. military issue orange HDPE food grade plastic.

Does it include a gasket?

Some barrels have the gasket and some do not, so gasket inclusion is not guaranteed.