Wondering about the shelf life of ammunition is an extremely common question that most people have.
Whether you are hoping to stockpile ammunition for any number of purposes or have found some older ammunition, it is extremely common to wonder how long it will last for.
While there is no one single answer, as not all ammo is the exact same, there are a few rules of thumb to follow.
Most ammunition is good for at least 10 years, but a few factors can affect this. The primary factors that will shorten this shelf life are being exposed to high heat or moisture.
Temperature
At high temperatures, the chemical composition of the gunpowder can start being affected. While it may not be instantaneous, sustained exposure to extremely high heats can negatively impact the ammunition. Over time, it may cause the round to be less effective, and eventually could lead to the ammunition not working.
Moisture
When ammunition is exposed to moisture, whether it is submerged in water or experiences high humidity, the powder could potentially become ineffective.
Once the propellant gets wet, it may not burn, so the ammunition may not function.
Generally speaking, manufacturers say that their ammunition is supposed to last for 10 years. However, this is just a general number that they give.
There is absolutely no reason that the ammo can’t be used after 10 years, if it is stored properly. Ammunition that is stored in a generally cool and dry place will last for well past 10 years. While it may not be the best idea to keep ammunition for this long, there’s no reason that it wouldn’t still function.
3 Tips For Storing Your Ammunition
Try to store ammunition indoors in a climate controlled room. Best gun safe is good choice.
If you must store it outdoors or in the attic, keep it in a place that won’t be in direct sunlight
Consider using an ammo can – they will keep the ammunition cooler and protect from moisture
One thing to keep in mind is that once your ammunition has been taken out of this cool and dry environment, it should be used at your soonest convenience.
If you take your ammo out to the range on a hot or rainy day, or take it out hunting in the swamp, your best bet is to expend that ammo sooner rather than later.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ammo will last as long as you treat it right. As long as it’s stored in a cool and dry environment, there is no reason that the ammo can’t last for decades.
However, once it has been exposed to high heat or moisture, you run the risk of it being no good.
To first understand the basics of shotgun slugs, you must understand what exactly a slug is and how a shotgun works.
How a shotgun works
A shotgun is a firearm that shoots shells rather than the traditional rifle cartridge.
So what's the shotgun shells?
Shotgun shells are generally plastic and are filled with their intended projectiles
Shotgun shells are commonly filled with smaller projectiles, called shot, but can also have one singular piece of metal, called a slug
The traditional rifle cartridge is generally some type of a metal filled with a propellant and the projectile on top of the cartridge. Both are fired by a firing pin striking a primer.
After the shotgun is fired, many shotguns are pump action. When the pump is pushed rearward, it ejects the spent shell, and loads in the next shell.
What exactly is a slug
As previously mentioned, a slug is one solid projectile, rather than smaller projectiles, such as birdshot or buckshot.
When a slug is fired from a shotgun, one larger solid projectile is fired, making it similar to a rifle firing a bullet. A shotgun firing a slug can be viewed as a simple rifle.
Pros and cons of using a slug
Strength of Slug
When compared to a similar hunting rifle, a shotgun slug is much heavier. source
Generally speaking, a rifle slug is at least twice as heavy as a comparable rifle bullet. I have a article to compare shotgun with rifle, you can read it in here.
While an advanced rifle fires its projectile nearly twice as fast, the sheer weight of a shotgun slug makes it extremely deadly.
The Cons of Slugs
However, the range of a shotgun with a slug is much less than that of a rifle.
A general rule of thumb is that slugs work within 100 yards. Modern advanced rifles can accurately shoot out to at least three times that far.
Another con of using a slug is that they cost slightly more than rifle ammunition.
Man is holding his Shotgun
When is it better to use a slug?
There are multiple situations in which using a shotgun firing slugs would be better than using a rifle. This is some situations:
Legal issue: In some states and areas, you aren’t able to hunt using a rifle. In an area like this, using a shotgun shooting slugs will allow you to continue hunting legally
About weight: If you are hunting large game, due to the weight of the shotgun slug, you will have a deadlier shot. While there are also bigger rifle cartridges, these come with larger weapons. Shotguns are generally easier to carry around than a much larger comparable rifle
About performance: In heavily wooded areas, using a slug may also be preferential. As a result of the added weight and size, a slug will be able to penetrate through brush easier. Similarly, in any situation in which your expected shot is within 100 yards, a slug will be better than most rifle cartridges, because it is more deadly.
Conclusion
Shotguns are an extremely versatile weapon. Slugs are just another facet of their versatility.
Shooting slugs from a shotgun give you a basic rifle. While the range is greatly decreased, it fires a much larger and heavier projectile than most rifles, making it a much deadlier projectile. (You should choose the best scope for ar15 rifle to make a perfect shot)
While the slug is by no means a one size fits all answer, there are definitely specific circumstances in which shooting a slug is more than likely better than most rifles.
While it will ultimately come down to personal preference, a shotgun shooting slugs is a formidable weapon for hunting.
When it comes to short-action cartridges, few have seen the rapid rise in popularity of the 6.5 Creedmoor. But in regards to performance, have you ever wondered which is best between the 6.5 creedmoor vs .308? If so, we'll explore that a little later.
Is the 6.5 creedmoor a good hunting (Photo courtesy of Hornady) http://www.thesportsmanchannel.com/2016/03/6-5-creedmoor-qa-industry-experts/
Reports come in from all over the country about hunters making the switch to the 6.5 and moving to this effective cartridge.
Is this a good thing?
Are hunters actually noticing an improvement in their skill and results?
The answer is revealed within the testimonials, and we’ve heard so many. But we finally wanted to answer the question flat out: Is the 6.5 Creedmoor good for hunting?
Why People Love The 6.5 Creedmoor
I firmly believe that part of the obsession is just a trend. Shooters are latching on to what’s current and what the folks in the public spotlight use.
With that said, there are a few incredible features that have clearly swayed public opinion on the cartridge. Here's what I mean:
The 6.5 Creedmoor continues to perform extremely well in various competitions. It’s hard to argue against something when a cartridge is tried and tested.
There has never been an abundance of cartridges designed solely for hunting. Those that perform well in hunting situations tend to receive considerable admiration
It’s relatively easy to request a custom build for the 6.5 Creedmoor. With the increasing popularity of customizing everything, of course the trend has spilled into cartridges
The readers of popular shooting publications like Guns & Ammo and Field and Stream have likely noticed the rise in discussion about the Creedmoor and its firm place in the mainstream arena.
Media discussions will continue, as well as talks around the campfire regarding the Creedmoor’s durability and dependability.
Another reason for all the uproar is the solid build of the 6.5 Creedmoor.
Everything about the construction is sturdy and ensures long term performance that won't be easily affected.
But even better than the cartridge itself, hunters notice an increase in the longevity of their hunts because they aren’t tired from a sore shoulder.
New hunters have an easier time finding their comfort zone and getting up to speed with more experienced hunters.
Fans of shooting history may recall that the last time the world saw a craze with customize-able firearm accessories. It was during the 1950's when classic military weaponry became available to the public.
6.5 creedmoor with rifle https://www.quora.com/Why-are-sniper-rifles-so-expensive#!n=18
Well, a similar craze is happening now, and it's clearly a superior product on the market. We have yet to see any stain on the Creedmoor's reputation, so you can expect this cartridge to continue to be in high demand.
The 6.5 cartridges do so well with these guns that it’s a natural fit. Plus, the Creedmoor is both modern and compatible with popular guns.
The 6.5 performs well in long-range hunts and on rapidly moving targets as well. Hunters become comfortable with setting the cartridge and follow-up. It’s rare to see any frustration from the hunter when they're using the 6.5 Creedmoor.
Hunters need accuracy, and this cartridge delivers
Anyone who doubt the statement above should look into the competition results over the last few years.
The 6.5 Creedmoor is among the most accurate cartridges available for the everyday hunter. Recoil is not an issue because it assists in accuracy and the hunter's comfort as well.
Many find that with the shot, they have no problem holding ground. As a result, they are more confident lining it up and coming to zero. Hunters know when they pull the trigger, they'll be right on track.
On the other hand, the 6.5 isn't great for hunting big game.
The 6.5 Creedmoor performs well with mid-sized animals such as deer and slightly smaller creatures.
But you don’t want to be out there hunting a Sasquatch with this thing. Likewise, short range shots under 25 yards don’t necessitate such a badass cartridge.
While it will certainly get the job done, it’s almost like overkill – unless you’re in practice mode and trying improve your skills.
The 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308: The Battle
The Creedmoor is the best long range cartridge for mid-sized animal hunting.
This is the main reason why it has become so trendy, and firmly confirms the fact that this cartridge is awesome for hunting.
Why?
For starters, it's more durable for the hunter's shoulder and body. The Creedmoor won’t wear you down after a day of shooting like a .308 will.
Furthermore, the recoil is so negligible that firing dozens of shots on the 6.5 causes less wear on the hunter than firing five shots with a .308.
Here is a video of the cartridge in action with Ruger Precison. If you have a Ruger Gun10/22, you should buy the best scope for ruger 10/22, i highly recommend you have one.
It performs better in windy situations, too.
Hunters notice less deflection from the wind and less effect on their overall accuracy with the 6.5.
Everything about the Creedmoor —including stock ammo— is more affordable than many other cartridge selections as well.
Hunters are consistently coming to the conclusion that once you go Creedmoor, you never go back.
Fifty years from now, this cartridge will have the track record and reputation of the most legendary hunting cartridges ever – just wait and see!
The 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308 Winchester
We know that we’ve given a lot of information about Creedmoor, but that doesn’t mean the Winchester doesn’t have anything to offer. We’ll take a look at a few of their characteristics and let you choose between the 6.5 Creemoor vs .308
Case Structure
Let’s first look at the difference in design between the two. The Creedmoor looks a lot like a 308, and it’s based on the .30 TC case. However, 6.5 has a more precise shoulder at 30 degrees than the Winchester’s 20-degree shoulder. It gives the brass in the Creedmoor more longevity but feeds more accurately in semi-automatics for the Winchester.
In regards to brass availability, the 6.5 doesn’t have much, so the .308 wins in the category.
Barrel Life
Since the Creedmoor has a smaller bore and faster speed, it has a shorter lifespan than the barrel of a .308. However, it won’t be too overbore like other barrels. But nonetheless, the Winchester takes the win on this one.
Ballistics
In regards to the 308, it performs okay but it’s not really ballistic coefficient—especially, for shooting at longer ranges. They’re both neck and neck within the 500-yard range; however, the Creedmoor has more to offer in regards to wind drift resistance.
Final Thoughts The 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308 Cartridge
Is the 6.5 Creedmoor is good for hunting?
The answer is a resounding and emphatic ‘YES’. It is great for hunting.
The one thing that may put a dent in the Creedmoor’s fame is the invention of a better product. But it would have to be one that out-perform the 6.5 and have a solid marketing team behind it because the Creedmoor is winning right now.
Hopefully this article shed some light on the 6.5 Creedmoor and why it's so good for hunting. But hey, that doesn't mean you should count the .308 out. It's still a good catridge, and I recommend that you try both and see which one best fits your hunting needs.
Please share this content on social media if you’ve enjoyed it, and feel free to post your thoughts in the comments below. We always love hearing about new situations where the Creedmoor or the Winchester has done the job. In the battle between the 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308, who do you think wins?
This name would suggest that the bullet is .44 inches in diameter, when in reality, it is .429 inches in diameter.
The bullet is fired from a 1.285 inch case. This round can be used in handguns, rifles, and revolvers.
While it is newer than .45 Long Colt, it is still a relatively old round.
.45 Long Colt
Unlike the .44 Magnum, .45 Long Colt is true to its name.
.45 Long colt ammunitiontogo.com
The bullet is approximately .45 inches in diameter.
Similar to the .44 Magnum, .45 Long Colt is fired from a 1.285 inch case.
This specific round is used solely in revolvers, and is an extremely historic round. It was first designed over a century ago.
What's different between .44 Magnum vs .45 Long Colt?
Size Difference
As you can tell, the .45 Long Colt is the same height as the .44 Magnum, but slightly wider.
As a result,
a .44 Magnum bullet is about 96% of the weight of a .45 Long Colt bullet
A .45 Long Colt bullet weighs approximately 250 grains, while a .44 Magnum bullet weighs approximately 240 grains
Ballistic Differences
Ballistic testing has shown that .44 Magnum is shot much faster than .45 Long Colt. When shot from a similar length barrel, .44 Magnum will be much faster.
For our purposes, we will use a 5 inch barrel for a comparison.
When shot from a 5 inch barrel, .45 Long Colt has a muzzle velocity of 957 feet per second, while .44 Magnum has a muzzle velocity of 1270 feet per second.
.44 Magnum shoots a bullet that is nearly the exact same size at a much higher rate of speed.
What this means to you, is that .44 Magnum is deadlier.
This improved performance is the result of nearly 100 years of ammunition and weapons technology advancements between the creation of .45 Long Colt and .44 Magnum.
Recommendations
Given this ballistic data, I would recommend using .44 Magnum over .45 Long Colt in a self-defense or hunting scenario.
If you are simply shooting for fun, both cartridges are extremely fun to shoot, and either will work.
Overall, both .44 Magnum and .45 Long Colt are excellent cartridges. While .44 Magnum has better ballistics, .45 Long Colt is an absolutely iconic American cartridge.
With more modern weapon technologies and more versatile weapons, .45 Long Colt has remained relevant today. Weapons such as the Taurus Judge and the Smith & Wesson Governor are capable of shooting .45 Long Colt, along with .410 bore shotgun shells, so the round still sees plenty of use.
If you are new to firearms, then you may have come across bonded or non-bonded bullets and wondered what the difference was.
Well, the answer is really pretty simple, but it has to do with how the bullet is made.
To learn the exact differences between a bonded and non-bonded bullet than continue with reading this article and digging deeper into the subject this article will also provide you valuable information on when it is best to use a bonded or non-bonded round.
What's the different between Bonded Bullet and Non-Bonded Bullet?
Bonded Bullet Characteristics
So what is the bonded bullet?
A bonded bullet is when the core of the bullet is bonded to the jacket.
This can be done in a variety of ways including electro processes and electro-chemical means.
The way the manufacturer creates a bonded bullet isn’t really the important thing, but the reason why they do it is important.
The main reason for a bonded bullet is it keeps the core and jacket from separating when the bullet penetrates into the target. This is a benefit because it helps the bullet hold most all of its weight into the penetration process.
The reason why the weight is important is the bullet doesn’t expand as rapidly and it goes deeper into the target, especially if the target is thicker fleshed or has a lot of layers.
Enviroment is one of factor impact weapon range
The fact that the bullet stays together means a deeper and cleaner wound.
When it comes to self-defense the cleanness of the wound may not matter as much to you, but when hunting this could mean the difference of pieces of bullet scattered throughout your game or it being one chunk of metal for you to pull out when cleaning.
Bonded bullets also do an excellent job of going through bone, so if shot placement is off a little with hunting than the effect will be less noticeable with a bonded bullet.
There are some disadvantages to bonded bullets however. One is it cost more to manufacture them.
No matter how the company does the bonding process it is still an extra step and this extra cost has to be passed on to the customer buying the rounds.
Also, since there are extra manufacturing steps they may suffer a little in accuracy. This is because even with top quality control the extra steps means that it is harder to get every bullet coming off the line to be identical. You want your bullets to be identical so they will fire the same way and produce the same results. Consistent results and reliability is really important if you are using the rounds for defense. Outside of these factors bonded bullets still have their place, but these are some of the reasons why they still make non-bonded bullets too.
Non-bonded bullets are rounds that the core of the bullet and the jacket are not connected.
What's this mean?
This means that when the round is fired it is very likely that it will separate into multiple pieces. This is defiantly true if the target is thick or has parts that can grab onto the bullet. If you are firing into thick flesh, then it can pull the jacket from the round. Also, a hard surface can cause the bullet to shatter on impact. Another quality of a non-bonded bullet is that it expands more rapidly. This means that the penetration may not be as deep.
These things may seem like bad things, but they actually don’t have to be. Since the manufacturing is easier non-bonded rounds cost much less and also since there are fewer steps in making them they fire more consistently. This means that the accuracy is better and with good shot placement a non-bonded bullet is excellent at taking down smaller game where you don’t need deeper penetration. The reason less penetration is good is because it damages less of the meat when you are hunting. If you are hunting deer, then if you place your shot behind the front shoulder, then a non-bonded round will bring it down just as easily as a bonded round. Non-bonded rounds however are not good at going through large game.
Which is Best Between Bonded Bullet and Non-Bonded Bullet ?
The answer to which is best between non-bonded and bonded rounds is it depends on the use.
If you are just having target practice, then a non-bonded round would make a lot more sense because it cost less.
Penetration and deformation results don’t matter if you are just shooting targets for fun. If you are shooting small game or want more accuracy, then a non-bonded round is probably just fine.
It will save you some money and will bring down the small game you are shooting or keep you safe if it is a round you are using for defense. If you are hunting bigger game such as elk or shooting through thicker things, then that is when you may want to consider bonded rounds.
The ability to keep shape better and more consistently on impact is important if you need deeper penetration. Also, if you are shooting the bone or joint of the animal instead of behind the boney part than a bonded round may be what you need.
Conclusion
To sum everything up though there is no right or wrong between bonded and non-bonded rounds.
To answer the question of what a bonded round is, it is simple just a round that has the jacket and core connected. This keeps it from separating and helps the round hold its weight and shape.
When choosing a round it is important to consider your use, but picking a bonded bullet or non-bonded bullet is just one question you have to answer.
Outside of this question you also need to consider caliber of the round and how many grains are behind it.
These are just two other simple questions to think about when choosing a round along with if it is bonded or not.
Part of the joy of buying a new rifle is figuring out which ammo is the best for that specific gun.
There are so many types to choose from that sampling everything at the range just isn’t doable.
Today we’re going to look at the best ammo for a Ruger 10/22 based on a few different situations.
Versatility is key with the Ruger, and a big reason for its popularity. Bulk ammo generally does well, and we’ve identified the best bulk option here.
More specifics may be rejected, but it really depends on what type of barrel you are using.
Let’s take a look:
A few notes on the Ruger 10/22
Try to avoid a BX magazine.
If there is one mag that severely effects which ammo your gun will like, this is it.
CCI is known for not working well with BX, and many have a tough time shooting anything other than general bulk ammo.
Use a 10-round factory magazine. Versatility and dependability are much higher than with a BX or other options.
Get small box of many different types of bullet
We recommend buying a small box of many different types of bullets and enjoying shooting them.
See what sticks and what doesn’t, and what makes you feel the most comfortable. You’ll probably be able to eliminate some of the options after only a few shots fired.
Once you’ve got the group down to three or four, run through specific scenarios and try each ammo with them.
Accuracy, different distances, moving targets, etc. all may deliver different results with different ammo. The best ammo for a Ruger 10/22 is available in bulk, so keep that in mind.
Best Ruger 10/22 ammo for general high-volume shooting: Remington bulk ammo
Part of what makes ammo work well with specific guns is how smooth it flows through the chamber.
Remington bulk is easy to load and shoot with a Ruger, and doesn’t slow down the process at all.
As far as accuracy, Remington bulk ranks at the top for 25 and 50 yard shots. It is good enough that nailing a specific area on the target is doable from 25 yards and beyond.
Many have found that Remington bulk is the best ammo for a Ruger 10/22 because it’s easy to order in bulk, fits the specifications of the Ruger, and is generic enough that modifications aren’t going to screw everything up.
Best Ruger 10/22 ammo for tougher shooting situations: CCI Stinger
Many barrels are not going to eat Stingers the way they eat general bulk ammo.
But CCI Stingers are great for accuracy in adverse conditions. For shots from a range longer than 25 or 50 yards, wind and other weather factors, and moving targets, Stingers really up the shooting game of the average hunter.
CCI lead 40-gram standard are great ammo for the Ruger 10/22.
CCI lead 40-gram
At 50 yards, the ammo is a lock with ten shots on a dime.
One thing to watch out for is whether they will cycle well with this gun – if you’ve got a custom barrel or add-ons, this may cause problems.
Other than that, CCI has a lock on the technical shooting aspects of the Ruger 10/22.
Here’s a video of ammo being tested by the Ruger 10/22:
Conclusion
Variety is one of the many benefits of owning a Ruger 10/22.
Most will eat just about any type of ammo, and it will be blatantly apparent if there’s something it doesn’t like.
Keep a bulk ammo on hand at all times, as well as some CCI for more specific situations. When there are choices, the odds of a successful shooting session are much higher.
If you found this article helpful, please share on social media.
Conversation is key in the hunting community, so if you have a specific ammo you love for the Ruger 10/22, share it below in the comments so we can all try it out!
Are you a new gun owner who is trying to figure out the right ammunition for your gun?
Well, this article will help you do just that.
Not only is it important to know the size of ammunition you need, but it is also important to consider the use you have intended for the bullets that you are picking out.
After reading this article you will know how to choose the right ammunition for your firearm based on the purpose you have in mind. So go on!!
Bullet Size or Caliber
Before getting into picking out a bullet by purpose it is important that you get the right caliber for your gun.
For guns, “caliber” means the diameter of the barrel and thus the diameter of the bullet that is going through it. Also for terminology sake, “bullet” just means the metal projectile, while the entire thing is called a cartridge.
When you purchased your firearm you probably went over this with the person you were buying the gun from. Their are a lot of different common sizes and each one is better for certain things than others.
.22LR- Small round for long riffles or pistols. These can kill and be used for defense, but they aren't much above pellet guns. These are great for learning however because they have little kick and recoil. They are also cheap.
9mm- There are a few rounds between the 22LR and the 9mm, but they are not as common and actually the same size as the 9mm, but just have different counts of gun powder in them. The 9mm is great for the range or self defense. They have enough power to penetrate well as close range, but still easy to fire with little recoil.
.38 Special- Again skipping a few to get to this one. This bullet is bigger and has more power behind it than a 9mm. Getting to this size you start to get more recoil This is especially true if you are using this in a smaller gun. The 38 special is mainly seen in revolvers. Also, the same size is the .357 magnum, but it is longer, so be sure to use it in a gun designed for it.
.223 and .308 – These are starting to get into rifle rounds. These are seen in assault rifles and are great fun at the range. They also can be used for defense, but the guns firing these are bigger which makes sense since the bullet is larger.
12 Gauge – This is a shotgun round and is the most common type. Their is also 20 gauge which is smaller and 10 gauge which is bigger. Shotgun rounds are used primarily for hunting.
Just remember to pick the right size bullet for your gun. The caliber is how big the diameter of the bullet is and it will match up with the barrel of your firearm. Just remember bigger bullets have more power and also cost more.
Firearm Purpose
People generally have three main purposes for their firearm when it comes time to purchase ammunition.
You probably want to practice with it, go hunting with it, or use it for self defense. Depending on your purpose it will dictate some of the futures you look for when buying ammo.
Target Practice Ammo
type of ammo for shooting practic
If you are just going for target practice or training, then you DON'T need the most powerful bullets.
Instead you want to focus on cost of each round.
You don't want to spend a lot on rounds when just shooting them for fun.
For rifles and handguns you probably want to look at FMJ cartridges and bullets.
FMJ rounds are made with soft lead in the middle and this is surrounded with a metal shell. They are easy to make and thus they are cheap.
If you are shooting a shotgun, then you probably want to look into lightweight target loads. They generally are 7.5 shot or smaller. The pellets on the inside of the shell are normally lead unless you live in an area that requires steel shot.
Outside of cost of ammunition you also want to consider the recoil when picking out rounds for target practice.
If you are shooting all day, then your arm will get tired fast if the gun has a lot of recoil. You should probably look for small-bore rim fire ammunition and avoid magnum rounds.
Using Ammo For Defense
If you are buying ammunition for defense, then cost is a factor, but you really want to make sure you get a round that will stop the threat as quickly as possible.
type of ammo for home defense
You want a round that will fire reliable and also come out with a lot of force.
A good type of rounds to use are hollow points. These bullets are designed to expand on contact making a larger hole in what they hit.
This is done by having a empty cavity in the tip of the bullet.
Not only does this make a larger wound though, it also helps with penetration and keeping the bullet in the target so no one else gets hurt.
When using a shotgun you should use buckshot rounds.
The pellets are large enough to do good damage. The key when picking out rounds for self defense though is finding ones that transfer all the energy into the target and also penetrates the target so no unintended person gets hurt.
You also want a reliable round to end the situation quickly.
What type of Ammo does Hunter use for Hunting?
For hunting you pretty much want to consider all the same factors as with self defense.
You should NEVER use an FMJ bullet for hunting as it won't kill the animal and it will most likely go straight through.
The difference between ammunition for hunting and defense is you need more penetration for hunting since most hunted animals are larger than humans.
For hunting more power is better,
This means picking out ammunition that produces a lot of force.
This normally means going with a larger caliber bullet.
This is something to keep in mind when purchasing a rifle or handgun if your main intention is hunting you should get something larger up front. (Pick the best handgun safe for the money to keep safety)
Conclusion
So now that you have finished reading this article you should be able to choose the right ammunition for your firearm depending on your purpose.
The two factors to consider when picking out ammunition is caliber of the bullet and also your use for the firearm.
If you are hunting, then you need to get a larger caliber gun.
If you are using it for self defense, then you want reliable rounds that will cause enough damage to end the situation quickly.
If you are just target practicing, then you can go with cheaper FMJ rounds in the caliber for your gun.
Even though there are a lot of different types of bullets there is really only a few uses for them, so you should be able to figure out the right firearm for you now and the right rounds for it.
Full metal jacket or hollow point? This frequent topic of debate is one of the few gun-related topics that actually has fact-based evidence to support both sides of the argument.
I love hollow point bullets and carry them in my concealed weapon. I also like to use them out in the field, and will get into the reasons why in this article.
What many people don’t understand is that there are significant differences between these types of bullets. Let’s take a look at what those differences are, and when each type is preferable over the other.
Definition of Full Metal Jacket and Hollow Point Ammo
What is full metal jacket ammo?
Simply put, full metal jacket ammo is frequently made of a soft lead core built inside of a shell made up of hard metal such as cupronickel or gilding metal.
The general preference for this type of bullet often stems from the desire for increased muzzle velocity. These bullets maintain their composure and trajectory better than almost any others on the market.
Full metal jacket ammo
In some cases, full metal jacket ammo contains a steel alloy casing.
FMJ bullets are incredibly strong – it is difficult for metal piercing substances to damage the bore of the bullet.
This, combined with the fact that these bullets do not expand upon hitting their target, makes them ideal for target shooting. Instead of expansion causing the bullet to slow and stop inside the target, full metal jacket bullets pass through and continue on a trajectory.
Full metal jacket ammo is cleaner than unjacketed bullets.
Everything within the bullet is fully concealed. All that has to do with the shooting process is smooth and straightforward, perfect for semi-autos.
For a 9mm, full metal jacket ammo is cleaner and stronger than hollow point.
What is hollow point ammo?
Hollow point ammo is preferred by hunters and those in defensive situations because it expands upon impact.
This type of ammo maximizes the stopping power of the shot. Targets are crippled and immobilized much more so than they are with full metal jacket ammo, increasing the odds of kill and of a successful hunt.
hollow point ammo
The expansion is caused by the hallow shape in the tip of the bullet. This allows the internal organs and tissue of the target to be severely impacted and wounded. Penetration is minimized.
For maximum power, many experienced shooters like to use jacketed hallow point bullets.
I personally have found these bullets extremely effective, as the added layer of metal delivers more impact than they otherwise have. What you will find as you progress as a shooter is that hollow point ammo is more versatile than full metal jacket in many situations.
For a 9mm, hollow point bullets are better for shoot to kill and self-defense situations.
Here’s a demonstration of the two.
Full metal jacket vs hollow point: When to use each, and why
Full metal jacket ammo has a bit of a sexy appeal to it.
New shooters are attracted by media coverage and the 1987 movie of the same name. It’s proven successful and useful in many military situations and other scenarios.
Hollow point bullet that has hit a target and expanded isolated
However, many experienced shooters as well as concealed carry activists prefer hollow point bullets. Let’s take a look at the breakdown:
Self-defense: Full metal jacket ammo is not often used in self-defense situations. Because it is a small-arms projectile, it can be used in concealed carry guns. These bullets are designed to move through its target and keep going, it often isn’t used for self-defense due to the risk of the bullet striking an unintended target. Use hollow point ammo for self-defense
Pass-through: Another fact about full metal jacket ammo is that due to the reduced expansion, the fact that they pass through what they hit often leaves targets less impaired than they otherwise would have been. When hunting, this can allow a target to move or remain slightly agile following impact
Quick feeding: Full metal jacket ammo feeds quickly and efficiently. Hollow point ammo is slightly less efficient in this category
Disco shooting and range practice: When firing at clay pigeons, you don’t really need the bullet to expand. They are going to break immediately upon impact. Full metal jacket bullets are fine for this, as long as there is no risk of unintended impact further down the range. The same goes for standard targets. Really, these situations are where specific shooters like to use what they are comfortable with
Hunting: In general, a shooter wants to maximize the impact of his or her shot. To do this, the expansion of the hollow point bullets is extremely preferable. I first figured this out as a kid hunting with my dad, and have never really gone back from it
If you’re planning to head to the gun store to buy some basic ammo for your concealed carry gun or next hunt, the best thing to do is go with hollow point. You’ll find more uses and will have less trouble locating waste and hit targets.
Here is a great video comparing the two.
Conclusion
As you’ve seen here, there is quite a difference in full metal jacket vs hollow point bullets. I hope you’ve gained a better understanding of them.
The general takeaway here is that hollow point bullets expand on contact and thus are more preferable for day-to-day situations because they reduce the risk of hitting targets downfield.
Full metal jacket bullets are stronger and cleaner, and generally better for situations when downfield unintentional targets are not an issue.
If you’ve enjoyed this article, please give it a share on social media. The more education and knowledge we can build in the gun community, the better for all. I’d love to hear about which you prefer – feel free to throw a comment down below and we’ll get a conversation going.
One of the more common questions asked by new shooters is this: What is the difference between rimfire vs. centerfire?
And, beyond that, why should I choose one over the other? Today we are going to dissect these two types of ammo and determine which one is better for your specific situation.
I personally prefer centerfire based on my shooting style, technique, and hobbies, but there are still small-cartridge situations where rimfire is better. Let’s take a look.
what is the different between Rimfire vs Centerfire
Rimfire vs. Centerfire: What the hell are they?
Rimfire and centerfire refer to the categories of primer ignition systems, basically, what gets the whole process of firing the bullet going.
The explosion caused by the lighting of the primer causes the gunpowder to react and project the bullet forward out of the barrel of the gun. Every single time a gun is fired, this is what happens, regardless of whether a rimfire or centerfire cartridge is being used.
With centerfire cartridges, the explosion is concentrated more centrally in the middle of the cartridge. This creates a more consistent firing of the bullet. Because of this increase in performance, the professionals in the police and military are preferring centerfire cartridges.
Rimfire cartridges see the explosion overtaking more of the cartridge as it is tripped at the rim. The pressure on the bullet isn’t as concentrated on the center of it, and I’ve heard tale of rimfire cartridges not firing with the power of their centerfire counterparts.
Rimfire vs Centerfire: How to they work?
Centerfire cartridges locate the primer in the center of the cartridge case head. These are much more common these days as cartridge size preference trends towards larger sizes. You really won’t find anything other than centerfire cartridges in larger or even medium sizes these days.
The move towards centerfire cartridges is based largely on the fact that they are more reliable in heavy duty situations. Police, military, and serious hunters and shooters have pretty much switched entirely to centerfire cartridges based on their dependability, consistency, and reliability.
Because of this, and because of the fact that so many shooters want to emulate the pros, most shops will stock a wide variety of centerfire cartridges while only stocking a minimal amount of rimfire cartridges.
Rimfire cartridges are pretty much a thing of the past, except for certain gun models. A rimfire cartridge works like this: the firing pin ignites the primer by striking the cartridge’s rim, causing friction and igniting the blast.
What is the difference between Rimfire vs Centerfire?
Basically, the difference starts with the power issues that we’ve discussed above. Rimfire cartridges are cheaper, for sure, and have lower recoil than centerfire cartridges.
One of the biggest drawbacks of rimfire cartridges is how hard they are to find. The older guys that I grew up with have been buying all the stock they can for fear of it no longer being available anywhere that they shop. As a result of this, hardly any new shooters are using rimfire cartridges.
Centerfire cartridges have higher recoil and are more expensive. But, because they are so widely available and there is no fear of them all being bought out or discontinued, the market price will probably eventually drop significantly just based on supply and demand.
So what is the better between Rimfire vs Centerfire?
I highly urge you, even if you are a long-time shooter, to make the switch to centerfire cartridges. The long term sustainability is much better and you’ll find that you spend less money over time because of:
Availability
Higher amounts of fittings
More ability to share and match with other shooters
Who fits rimfire cartridges and who fits centerfire cartridges?
Rimfire cartridges are certainly not as prominent as they once were. Right now, 17 caliber and .22 caliber pistol and rifle cartridges can be found in rimfire variety, along with some shotgun cartridges that are small-bore.
You won’t find any game hunting cartridges using rimfire anymore. Beyond that, mostly just collectors’ items will fit rimfire cartridges. .22LR are the most frequently used rimfire cartridge fittings. You’ll also see them in WMR, Winchester Magnum, Hornady Mach 2, and Hornady Magnum. Not a ton of variety offered here!
For today’s pistol, rifle, and shotgun ammunition, most of what is commonly used will be centerfire. If you are looking for a specific rimfire cartridge, your best bet is going to be to shop online on a store’s website first before visiting in person just to make sure that they will stock it before you head out.
Conclusion
I hope you have gained a solid understanding of the differences between rimfire and centerfire cartridges.
Centerfire is the way of the future. Rimfire will likely continue on its slow and miserable decline.
What the high-impact shooters of the world prefer is what goes, and you’ll be better off siding with them. I started using centerfire cartridges years ago because I predicted this trend after spending years in the military serving my country.
If you have enjoyed this article, please share on social media so that we can increase awareness of the differences between rimfire and centerfire cartridges and get more people switched over.
Feel free to share your comments in the section below and we’ll get a conversation going. Take care!
You want to know which is better between 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308 Winchester?
There has been much talk lately about the performance of the 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308 Winchester. In my opinion, the 6.5 Creedmoor is a better cartridge overall. This is because of its ballistic capabilities and the fact that it is slightly smaller than the .308.
I happen to be fond of the little red tip as well, which is not present on the .308. In this article I’m going to show you why the 6.5 Creedmoor is the superior option, and why you should look for it to play an increasingly large role in the market, in everything from store shelf presence to gun fitting, going forward.
Overall Performance
When shooting, both cartridges perform well and are effective for hunting and target shooting at the range. But for medium to long-range shooting, the 6.5 Creedmoor is much better because it uses slightly skinnier bullets that make it downrange at a faster rate of speed than the other, and I’ve seen multiple times this have a direct impact on accuracy.
The .308 just can’t quite keep up on shots over 700 yards is what I’ve noticed. The longer the shot, the bigger the difference there is between the two cartridges. The .308 Winchester is incredibly well-known in the shooting world. Pretty much everyone has experience with them.
If you’re going for something easy that is simple to get opinions on, fit to a gun, ammo for, or anything else, this is the winner here. But once we start to look a little deeper into the two cartridge types, some major points begin to rise. The 6.5 Creedmoor is a better cartridge, plain and simple. For long-range shooting, for accuracy, for speed. Dare I say, even for consistency with loading and gun powder?
What About Build Of .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor.
The shoulder is sharper on the 6.5 Creedmoor. This also factors into accuracy. If you spend a significant amount of time out in the field with both cartridges, you’ll notice that the brass lasts longer in the Creedmoor. The Creedmoor is based on a .30 TC Case, unlike the .308.
I do have to give the .308 credit for its consistency, however. Every time I’ve used it, or been hunting with someone who is, I feel like I know what to expect with each shot, from load to follow through. When I start getting carried away distance-wise with the 6.5 Creedmoor, I frequently notice some variabilities in the overall feel of the shot. This is particularly true when loading.
The case itself, on both options, is incredibly sturdy. They’ll be dependable whenever you need them and are worth the money. I don’t want to make it seem like I hate the .308 Winchester. I just think that it has had its time, and over the last ten years or more we’ve started to see the rise of a superior option. Particularly for distance accuracy, as I’ll note repeatedly.
I’ll give the .308 the edge for range shooting. It’s more consistent on shorter to mid-range shots and can be used in more guns. And because just about everyone has experience with them, these cartridges are easy to find bullets for and an expert to assist you with loading or anything else that you need help with.
Shooting
The rising popularity of 6.5 mm cartridges is ensuring that shops will have more and more selections for the Creedmoor when it comes to bullets. Your choice of shot should be largely based on case outline. Again, the 6.5 Creedmoor is the winner here, particularly because as it grows in popularity, more options become available. Both cartridges will suffice just fine in the field. But if you’re hunting with someone using the other, you will notice differences over time.
The 170+ grain measure of the .308 struggles with magazine limitations. I also seem to have better luck with the Creedmoor when it comes to powder. It shoots at a higher speed: a 140-grain shot sees 2710 fps with a superior BC of .526-.535. You ain’t going to get that with the .308!
The 6.5 Creedmoor has less recoil because it fires lighter bullets, making the shots easier on you over time. The .308 is the winner on the lifespan of the barrel, due to the fact that that the .605 has a smaller bore and shoots at higher speeds. It does tend to wear the barrel out.
If you’re using a bolt action style rifle, .308 will be more apt to work with your gun. Obviously, this depends on what you’re using. But as the 6.5 Creedmoor becomes more popular, more rifle makers have started to make options that will accommodate. I’ve heard hunters say that .308 ammo is cheaper and more available (see video below), but this is going to be less and less of a problem as time moves along.
Since the 6.5 jumped into the spotlight, it has slowly gained momentum and traction. It’s versatility has increased in tune with that. Will it ever surpass the .308 Winchester in popularity? Probably not. Old hacks like me are stuck in our ways, in fact I’m one of the more progressive hunting types in my crew and the only one that currently prefers the 6.5 Creedmoor.
The Verdict About 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308 Winchester
As I’m sure I’ve made very clear throughout this article, I prefer the 6.5 Creedmoor over the .308 Winchester. It’s a better cartridge because of improved accuracy and spotting, particularly in long-range shooting. The .308 is the stuff of legend or lore these days, but sometimes it’s best that a legend passes the torch.
Down the line, the 6.5 Creedmoor will be increasingly fitted and common to more shooters’ tastes and hopefully we can wake up the rest to its superiority. And in my opinion, 6.5 Creedmoor is the best ammo for an AR-10 rifle.
If you enjoyed this article, please share on social media so that we can get the good word out! Perhaps you’re an old .308 guru – throw a comment down below and let’s get a conversation going.
