Ammo For Beginners: FMJ VS Hollowpoint

Published on April 22, 2020
Duration: 18:32

This guide, presented by Iraqveteran8888, breaks down the fundamental differences between Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) and Hollowpoint (HP) ammunition. It covers their construction, intended uses, and terminal ballistics, including concepts like permanent and temporal cavities. The video also touches on specialized rounds like soft points and barrier-blind designs, offering practical insights for new gun owners and experienced shooters alike.

Quick Summary

The primary difference between FMJ and Hollowpoint ammunition lies in their terminal performance. FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) rounds are designed for target practice and penetrate straight without expanding. Hollowpoint (HP) rounds feature a cavity that causes them to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound cavity and dumping more energy, making them ideal for self-defense and hunting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Ammo Types
  2. 01:23Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) Explained
  3. 03:30Hollowpoint (HP) Characteristics
  4. 05:13Terminal Ballistics: Cavitation
  5. 09:19Soft Point (SP) Ammunition
  6. 11:37Defensive Ammo Recommendations
  7. 13:05Specialized Projectiles: FTX and Pow'R Ball

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between FMJ and Hollowpoint ammunition?

FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) ammo has a lead core fully encased in a metal jacket, designed for target practice and training with straight penetration. Hollowpoint (HP) ammo has a cavity in the tip, engineered to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound cavity and dumping energy more effectively, making it suitable for self-defense.

Why are Hollowpoint bullets better for self-defense than FMJ bullets?

Hollowpoint bullets are generally preferred for self-defense because they are designed to expand upon impact with soft tissue. This expansion increases the bullet's diameter, creating a larger wound channel and transferring more energy to the target, while also reducing the risk of over-penetration through multiple barriers or individuals.

What are some recommended brands for self-defense ammunition?

Industry-standard brands for reliable self-defense ammunition include Speer Gold Dot, Hornady Critical Defense, and Federal HST. These lines are known for their consistent performance in ballistic testing and their effectiveness in terminal ballistics.

What is 'barrier blind' ammunition technology?

'Barrier blind' ammunition technology refers to bullets designed to perform reliably even after passing through intermediate barriers like automotive glass or clothing. Examples include Hornady's FTX projectiles, which use a polymer tip to prevent clogging of the hollowpoint cavity, ensuring proper expansion.

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