By: Viraj Shah
Have you ever wondered how to choose the right ammo for your firearm? While the answer to such a question may seem obvious, you might be surprised. If you own a firearm or are in the market for one, it is important to know how to choose the right ammo for your firearm. Getting this wrong can prove fatal.
Type of Firearm
First, it is important to know what type of firearm you have. Do you have a handgun, rifle, or shotgun? This will make a difference in what kind of ammo you choose.
Manual
If you already have a firearm, hopefully, you kept the manual. If you did, you should be able to find the type of ammo your firearm uses within this guide. If you are in the market for a firearm, make sure to read your manual carefully when you get one and hold onto it for future use.
Caliber
Another way to determine the proper type of ammo for your firearm is by locating the ammo type engraved on your firearm. Try looking at the barrel of your firearm. You may be able to locate the caliber or gauge it uses on the barrel.
You will want to use the same type of round that is stated on your firearm. You should be able to match what is said on your firearm to what is said on an ammo box and round/shell. If you are using a shotgun, you will also want to ensure that the length of your shotgun shells is the proper length. This information should also be engraved on the barrel of your shotgun.
Cartridge
The type of cartridge you will need is also important to consider. If you have a rifle, you will likely need rimfire cartridges. If you own a handgun, you will want to look for centerfire cartridges. However, there can be a bit of diversity within the cartridge types, so you will likely want to consult an expert to help you make the right choice.
Bullet
You have some freedom in choosing your bullet type. Some of the options are a full metal jacket, soft point, armor piercing, etc. Full metal jacket bullets are great for target shooting. They hold their trajectory well and do not typically expand when hitting a target.
Soft point bullets on the other hand expand as they hit their target. These bullets are designed as a cross between the hollow point and full metal jacket. Because they expand when they hit their target, the damage they leave is greater.
Price
But surely, we cannot forget about the price. Ammo can be costly, and with the wide assortment available, if you have found something that is the right fit for your firearm, you may want to consider the price. At the same time, choose wisely because sacrificing performance may not be worth saving a few bucks.
Usage
Finally, it is important to know what you will be using your firearm for. There are three types of usages: hunting, target shooting, and self-defense.
When shooting at a target, you can typically use cheap bullets that do not expand, such as full metal jacket bullets. When using a firearm for self-defense, you will want to invest in bullets that do expand, such as hollow point bullets. This will reduce the possibility of a bullet traveling through a target and hitting an innocent person.
Published by: Holy Minoza
