If you have a firearm, then you need the right ammunition for it. Ammunition is an essential part of your gun since it’s the only thing that powers it up and launches bullets.

Without the right kind of ammunition, your gun can become obsolete. But when choosing the right ammo, it can become a highly confusing process. That’s why many kinds of ammunition are available today, each with its advantage.

Today, we’ll be taking a look at the different types of ammunition available and what they are best used for. That way, you’ll have a better idea of what kind of ammunition you’d want to use for your firearm.

Read on!

Rimfire Ammunition

Rimfire ammunition is commonly used in small-caliber firearms. It gets its name because the firing pin strikes the rim of the cartridge to ignite the primer.

Rimfire cartridges are typically used in firearms chambered for .22 caliber, and they are suitable for target shooting and small game hunting. They are relatively inexpensive but may have limited range and power compared to other types of guns.

Centerfire Ammunition

Centerfire ammunition is widely used in handguns, rifles, and shotguns. Unlike rimfire ammunition, the primer is located in the center of the cartridge base. Centerfire ammunition offers a wide variety of calibers, including popular choices like the following:

• 9mm, .45 ACP
• .223 Remington
• .308 Winchester

It is known for its reliability, versatility, and greater power compared to rimfire ammunition. Centerfire cartridges are suitable for various purposes, such as self-defense, target shooting, and hunting.

Full Metal Jacket Bullets

Full Metal Jacket bullets have a soft lead core surrounded by a harder metal shell, usually made of copper or brass. These bullets are known for their enhanced penetration and minimal expansion upon impact.

FMJ ammunition is commonly used in target practice and in military applications. It is important to note that FMJ bullets may not be as effective for self-defense purposes, as they have a higher likelihood of over-penetration.

Hollow Point Bullets

Hollow Point bullets are designed to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and transferring more energy to the target. The hollow cavity at the bullet’s tip facilitates controlled expansion.

This type of ammunition is commonly used for self-defense because it delivers maximum stopping power while minimizing the risk of over-penetration. Hollow Point bullets are available in various calibers for handguns and rifles.

Shotshells

Shotshells are specifically designed for shotguns and are commonly used for hunting birds, small games, and sport shooting. They consist of a plastic or paper shell containing small metal or lead pellets, known as a shot.

Shotshells are classified by gauges, such as 12, 20, 410, and 7mm PRC ammo, and shot size, which determines the number and size of the pellets within the shell. Different bullet sizes are used for different targets, with larger pellets for larger games and smaller pellets for smaller games or sport shooting.

Learn the Types of Ammunition for Your Firearm

Understanding the different types of ammunition is essential for responsible firearm ownership. We have covered some common types of ammunition, including rimfire and centerfire cartridges, full metal jackets, hollow point bullets, and shotshells. To ensure you have the right ammunition for your firearm, check out Thermold Magazines, a reputable brand that offers a wide range of gun magazines to meet your needs.

Always follow proper safety protocols, consult local laws and regulations, and choose ammunition suitable for your specific firearm and intended purpose!

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