Ammunition selection depends on your intended purpose. Using the right ammo matters.
FMJ (Full Metal Jacket)
Copper jacket over lead core. Designed for penetration, not expansion.
Uses
- Range training (cheapest option)
- Competition
- Military applications
NOT recommended for defense: Overpenetration risk, poor energy transfer.
JHP (Jacketed Hollow Point)
Hollow cavity causes controlled expansion on impact. Greater energy transfer, reduced overpenetration.
Uses
- Personal defense
- Home defense
- Hunting (depending on caliber)
Grain Weight
Heavier bullets = more momentum, less velocity. Lighter = faster, flatter trajectory. Standard 9mm: 115gr, 124gr, 147gr.
Train with FMJ, carry JHP from the same weight class for consistent point of aim.