Types of Ammo

There are several different types of ammo to choose from. For a new shooter it is hard to determine what type you need. Each type has its own purpose and is for a specific action. Knowing the difference can save money and save lives.

Full Metal Jacket

Full metal jacketed ammo consists of a ball type slug. This ammo is the cheapest type. These rounds go into and through a target, similar to musket balls. They do minimal damage and pass straight through. This ammo is mainly for target practice.

Hollow points

Hollow point ammo has a hollowed out end. This hollow point allows the projectile to expand upon impact. A fully expanded hollow point looks like a mushroom. The expansion of a hollow point does maximum damage. The mushrooming effect also slows down the round. Hollow points are less likely to do damage past your target. Hollow points are ideal for personal protection.

Frangible

Frangible ammo is a specialty type that powderizes upon impact. Frangible ammo is commonly used to shoot steel targets. Frangible ammo can also be used in personal protection to reduce the risk of the bullets going through walls. Frangible ammo is the most expensive. It is required by some ranges and training facilities.

Using each type of ammo in its proper place will save you money and help prevent accidents. For training full metal jackets work just fine as long as your local range allows. They are the cheapest form of ammo. For self defense and personal protection hollow points are the way to go. I have never had to have frangible ammo, and I have never shot it. Being the most expensive I will stick to training with full metal jackets as long as possible.

What types of ammo do you use? Let us know in the comments below. Also subscribe using the email form below to receive daily notification of our new posts.