Hollow Point vs. Full Metal Jacket: Which Ammo Should You Choose?

Introduction

One of the most common questions among gun owners is whether to use hollow point or full metal jacket ammunition. Both types are widely available, but they serve very different purposes. Understanding the differences between the two helps you choose the right ammo for your needs, whether that is self-defense, range practice, or hunting.

What is Full Metal Jacket Ammo?

Full Metal Jacket, often shortened to FMJ, refers to a bullet design where the lead core is encased in a harder metal shell. This design prevents the bullet from deforming on impact, which allows for deeper penetration. FMJ ammo is typically used for target practice, range training, and competition shooting. Its biggest advantages are affordability and reliability. Because it is less expensive to manufacture, FMJ is the go-to choice for high-volume practice.

What is Hollow Point Ammo?

Hollow point, or HP, ammunition has a small cavity in the tip of the bullet. This design causes the bullet to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and transferring more energy to the target. The expansion also reduces the chance of over-penetration, making hollow point ammo a preferred choice for self-defense. It is generally more expensive than FMJ, but its effectiveness in critical situations makes it worth the investment for personal protection.

Ballistic Differences Between FMJ and HP

The key ballistic difference comes down to penetration versus expansion. FMJ bullets penetrate deeply without much change in shape, making them reliable for target practice but less ideal for defensive use. Hollow point bullets, on the other hand, expand on impact, increasing stopping power while reducing the risk of the bullet passing through the target. This makes hollow point ammo more effective for self-defense scenarios where controlling penetration is crucial.

Cost Comparison Between FMJ and HP

FMJ ammunition is almost always cheaper, which is why it is the standard for range days and training. Hollow point ammunition, because of its specialized design, costs more per round. Most responsible gun owners use FMJ for practice and keep hollow point ammo loaded for defensive purposes. This way, you can train affordably while still being prepared for real-world situations.

Choosing the Right Ammo for Different Scenarios

The best choice depends on your intended use. For self-defense, hollow point ammunition is widely considered the best option due to its stopping power and reduced risk of over-penetration. For range training and target shooting, FMJ is the most practical choice because it is affordable and consistent. For hunting, the choice varies depending on the animal and the firearm. Some hunters prefer hollow point or soft point ammo for cleaner kills, while others use FMJ when deep penetration is needed.

Ammo Storage and Buying Tips

Regardless of which type of ammo you choose, proper storage is essential. Keep ammunition in a cool, dry place, preferably in sealed containers. Buying in bulk can save money, especially on FMJ rounds for practice. For defensive ammo, consider rotating your stock occasionally to ensure reliability. Always check manufacturer recommendations and make sure your firearm is designed to handle the type of ammunition you plan to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is hollow point ammo legal everywhere? Laws vary by state. Some areas restrict hollow point ammunition, so it is important to check local regulations before purchasing.
Q2: Can I use FMJ ammo for self-defense? While it is possible, FMJ is less effective for self-defense because it may over-penetrate and pose risks to bystanders.
Q3: Why is hollow point more expensive than FMJ? The manufacturing process is more complex, and the design is specialized for expansion and stopping power.
Q4: Which ammo is better for concealed carry? Most experts recommend hollow point for concealed carry due to its effectiveness in stopping threats.
Q5: Is FMJ ammo less accurate than hollow point? No. Both types can be very accurate. The difference is in performance on impact, not in flight.
Q6: Should I practice with hollow point ammo? It is wise to test a few magazines of your chosen defensive hollow point to make sure it cycles reliably in your firearm, but FMJ should remain your main practice ammo to save on cost.

Conclusion

Both hollow point and full metal jacket ammunition have their place. FMJ is the clear choice for affordable practice, while hollow point is the superior option for self-defense. Most responsible gun owners keep both on hand: FMJ for the range and hollow point for protection. If you are ready to stock up, take a look at our current selection of ammunition, including both FMJ and hollow point options, available for immediate shipping.