Complete Guide To 8 Common Ammo Types And Sizes

Recreation & Sports Blog

Did you know that there are countless different types of ammo available on the market around the world? This guide describes the most common ammunition used in the United States, as well as their applications. Ammo comes in different types (how the bullet is made) and different sizes. Each ammo type and size can be used in different firearms for different purposes.  

Types

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

A full metal jacket bullet is exactly what it sounds like. The lead is fully encased in a harder metal jacket that makes up the outside shell. These bullets are great for target practice and competitions because they offer a smoother transition in the magazine with less chance of stopping or misfeeding. In addition, because they are fully cased in a harder metal, they can be fired at higher velocities more accurately than alternative ammo options because the bullet doesn't disfigure as easily. 

Hollow Point (HP)

Hollow point ammunition is usually made completely of lead and features a small hole in the tip designed to make the bullet rapidly expand upon impact, preventing the bullet from penetrating beyond the target. These bullets are ideal for personal protection and certain types of hunting. 

Soft Point (SP)

Soft point ammo is similar to a full metal jacket bullet, however, it features a soft tip nose that creates a larger point of impact and doesn't penetrate as deeply. These bullets are generally used in hunting because they offer a lot of the benefits of full metal jacket ammo at long range without the threat of the bullet passing through the target into an unintended secondary target.

Sizes

.22LR

.22LR ammo is the most common size of ammo in the United States because it is small and widely available. It is most commonly used for target shooting and small game hunting. It is generally the first type of ammo a new shooter uses to learn how to handle a firearm. 

9mm

9mm ammo is the standard size for handguns and is generally used for target practice and home defense. 

.223/5.56

.223 or 5.56 ammo is generally used in AR-15 rifles, however, it is also used in other popular firearms. This ammo is commonly used for self-defense and competition shooting because the weapons that use this ammunition are generally considered versatile.

.308

.308 ammo is powerful but offers low recoil for its size making it ideal for hunting rifles. 

12 Gauge

Finally, 12 gauge ammo is generally used in shotguns and comes in a range of options from buckshot to specialty loads. Most commonly, this ammo is used for bird hunting and skeet shooting.

Contact a local ammo shop to learn more. 

3 January 2023