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4 Differences Between Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point Ammunition

January 29, 20231 min read

Here is a brief overview of the four main differences between full metal jacket (FMJ) and hollow point (HP) ammunition:

1.    Purpose: FMJ bullets are primarily used for training and target practice, as well as in military and law enforcement applications. They are designed to provide consistent and reliable feeding in firearms, as well as good penetration through hard targets. HP bullets, on the other hand, are designed to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and increasing stopping power. They are often used for self-defense and hunting. Get familiar with Florida gun laws.

2.    Construction: FMJ bullets have a soft core (usually made of lead) encased in a shell of harder metal, such as copper or steel. HP bullets have a small cavity or "hollow" in the tip of the bullet, which is designed to expand upon impact.

3.    Stopping power: Because they do not expand upon impact, FMJ bullets may not be as effective at stopping an attacker as HP bullets. The expansion of the HP bullet creates a larger wound channel, increasing its stopping power.

4.    Legal considerations: Some countries have restrictions on the use of HP bullets for military or law enforcement purposes, due to concerns about their potential to cause excessive injury.

It's important to note that both types of bullets can be effective under the right circumstances. The choice of FMJ or HP bullets will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the shooter.

Be sure to learn if you state has any specific firearm laws around ammunition. Also, learn how to be a safe and responsible gun owner by taking my firearms classes.

Talk to you soon, your friendly neighborhood firearms instructor,

James

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James Dowler

James Dowler is a NRA Certified Pistol Instructor and founder of Survival of the Fittest Pistol Courses. He offers courses in firearm safety that are designed to familiarize you with your pistol and all of its features, while also teaching beginner classes and concealed carry classes. James is on the safety team of his church, and is passionate about protecting his wife, son, and community.

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