Welcome back to the Standard Issue Armory blog! Whether you’re a seasoned marksman, a new gun owner, or someone simply interested in the world of firearms, understanding the types of ammunition available is essential. In this post, we’ll break down the various types of ammunition you may encounter and discuss their unique features and applications. Let’s dive right in!
1. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
Primary Use: Target shooting, practice
Characteristics: FMJ ammo features a soft lead core surrounded by a shell of harder metal. These rounds are economical and best suited for practice and target shooting where you don’t need the bullet to expand upon impact.
2. Hollow Point (HP)
Primary Use: Self-defense, hunting
Characteristics: Designed for maximum impact, hollow point bullets expand upon hitting a target, creating larger wound channels. They are a top choice for self-defense and hunting but are generally more expensive.
3. Open Tip Match (OTM)
Primary Use: Precision shooting
Characteristics: Although they look similar to hollow points, OTM rounds are not designed for expansion. They are built for accuracy and are commonly used in competitive and long-range shooting.
4. Ballistic Tip
Primary Use: Hunting, long-range shooting
Characteristics: These bullets are designed for long-range accuracy and rapid expansion. They are excellent for hunting small to medium game.
5. Frangible
Primary Use: Shooting in close-quarters or steel targets
Characteristics: Frangible ammo is designed to break apart upon impact, minimizing the risk of over-penetration. This makes it a good choice for steel target shooting and some self-defense situations.
6. Shotshells
Primary Use: Hunting, sport shooting
Characteristics: Used primarily in shotguns, shotshells contain multiple pellets that spread upon firing. They come in various sizes, often denoted by terms like “birdshot” and “buckshot,” depending on their intended target.
7. Rimfire and Centerfire
Primary Use: Various, depending on caliber and bullet type
Characteristics: Rimfire and centerfire refer to the primer location in the cartridge. Rimfire ammo is generally cheaper but is usually limited to smaller calibers. Centerfire ammunition is more robust and available in a wider range of calibers.
8. Specialty Rounds
Primary Use: Specific niche uses
Characteristics: These include less-lethal options like rubber bullets, bean bags, and flares. Always consult experts before using these types of ammunition, as they are designed for very specific scenarios.
Understanding Calibers
The caliber of your ammunition refers to the internal diameter of your firearm’s barrel. Make sure to always use the correct caliber for your gun. Common calibers include .22LR, 9mm, .45 ACP, and .223 Remington, among others.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ammunition can be as vital as selecting the firearm itself. Different types of ammunition are designed for various applications, from self-defense and hunting to sport shooting and practice. Always remember to consult your firearm’s manual to confirm which types of ammunition are suitable for use and adhere strictly to safety guidelines.
Feel free to contact us at Standard Issue Armory if you have more questions about ammunition types or any other firearms-related topics. We’re here to help you make informed decisions.
