Hollow-Point Bullets vs. Full Metal Jacket Bullets

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Firearm enthusiasts, law enforcement agencies, and policymakers have been debating the choice between hollow-point bullets and full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets for years. Both types of ammunition serve distinct purposes and come with advantages and disadvantages. Here’s how each stacks up based on design, performance, applications, and ethical considerations.

Differences in Bullet Design

Hollow-Point Bullets

Hollow-point bullets have a hollowed-out tip or cavity at the projectile’s nose. This design causes the bullet to expand on impact, increasing its diameter and energy transfer to the target. This expansion creates larger wound channels, making it effective for self-defense and law enforcement.

Full Metal Jacket Bullets

Full metal jacket bullets, on the other hand, have a soft lead core enclosed by a harder metal shell, usually copper or brass. This design ensures the bullet retains its shape on impact and minimizes expansion.

Performance

Hollow-Point Bullets

  • Expansion: Hollow-points are designed to expand on impact with soft tissue, increasing the likelihood of incapacitating the target.
  • Stopping Power: Due to their expansion and greater energy transfer, hollow-point bullets are often preferred for self-defense and personal protection.
  • Reduced Overpenetration: Hollow-points are less likely to over penetrate the target, reducing the risk of hitting unintended targets.

Full Metal Jacket Bullets

  • Penetration: FMJ bullets are known for their deep penetration, making them great for penetrating barriers or obstacles before reaching the target.
  • Reduced Tissue Damage: FMJ bullets are less likely to cause extensive tissue damage, which can be important in situations where collateral damage needs to be minimized.
  • Military and Law Enforcement Use: FMJ bullets are commonly used by military and law enforcement agencies due to their penetration capabilities and reduced risk of overexpansion.

Applications

Hollow-Point Bullets

  • Self-Defense: Hollow-points are widely used by civilians for personal protection due to their stopping power and reduced risk of overpenetration.
  • Law Enforcement: Many police departments prefer hollow-points for their ability to quickly incapacitate threats while minimizing risks to bystanders.
  • Hunting: Hollow-point ammunition is often chosen for hunting because of its effectiveness in delivering clean and humane kills.

Full Metal Jacket Bullet

  • Military Use: FMJ ammunition is standard issue for military forces around the world due to its penetration capabilities and reliability.
  • Target Shooting: FMJ bullets are popular among recreational shooters and competitive shooters for their affordability and consistent performance on targets.

Ethical Considerations

Hollow-Point Bullets

  • Humanitarian Concerns: Critics argue that hollow-points, designed to maximize damage to human targets, raise ethical concerns, especially in warfare.
  • Legal Implications: The legality of using hollow-point ammunition for self-defense varies by jurisdiction, with some places prohibiting it due to concerns about excessive harm to aggressors.

Full Metal Jacket Bullets

  • Reduced Tissue Damage: FMJ bullets are often seen as less cruel in terms of tissue damage, making them more ethically acceptable in some contexts.
  • Humanitarian Concerns: While FMJ bullets may be seen as less damaging, their potential to over penetrate and harm unintended targets can still raise ethical questions.

In the ongoing debate between hollow-point bullets and full metal jacket bullets, it’s important to recognize each type of ammunition has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The choice between these different types of bullets should be based on the specific needs and circumstances of the user, whether for self-defense, law enforcement, hunting, or military operations. Ethical considerations also play a role in this decision-making process. Ultimately, a responsible approach to firearm and ammunition selection should prioritize safety, legality, and ethical concerns while considering the intended application.

Understanding Ballistic Coefficient in Ammunition

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The ballistic coefficient (BC) is a critical parameter for ammunition, especially in long-range shooting. It’s a measure of how well a projectile can maintain its velocity and trajectory stability as it travels through the air. A higher ballistic coefficient means a bullet will perform better in terms of range, accuracy, and resistance to external factors like wind and air resistance.

The ballistic coefficient is a numerical value that quantifies the aerodynamic efficiency of a projectile. It’s a dimensionless number, typically a decimal or fraction, and is a measure of how streamlined or drag-resistant the projectile is.

Calculation

Ballistic coefficients are determined through extensive testing and mathematical modeling. They’re influenced by factors such as bullet shape, weight, sectional density, and the form factor. The higher the BC, the better the bullet’s ability to maintain velocity and trajectory over longer distances.

Significance

  • Long-Range Performance: Ammunition with a high BC will retain its velocity and energy over extended distances, making it more accurate at longer ranges. This is crucial for activities like competitive shooting or hunting at extended distances.
  • Resistance to Wind Drift: Higher BC projectiles are less affected by crosswinds. They tend to drift less, making it easier for shooters to adjust for windage.
  • Flatter Trajectory: A higher BC results in a flatter trajectory, meaning the bullet will drop less over distance. This makes it simpler for shooters to estimate holdover or dial in adjustments for different distances.
  • Energy Retention: A higher BC means more energy is retained by the projectile, which can be important for terminal performance in hunting or self-defense scenarios.

Practical Application

Shooters often consider the BC when choosing ammunition for their specific needs. For example, competitive long-range shooters may prioritize bullets with exceptionally high BC values for maximum accuracy at extreme distances, while hunters might look for a balance between BC and terminal performance for ethical and effective hunting.

Variation

Different types of bullets and ammunition will have varying BC values. For example, boat-tail bullets typically have higher BCs than flat-base bullets because their streamlined shape reduces drag. Likewise, different calibers and bullet designs will have unique BCs.

Ballistic coefficient is a critical factor for rifle ammunition because it quantifies how well a projectile can resist air resistance, retain its velocity, and maintain trajectory stability over distance. A higher ballistic coefficient is generally better for long-range accuracy and performance, but it’s important to choose ammunition based on your specific shooting requirements and goals.

How to Understand Ammo Headstamps

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Ammo headstamps are the markings on the base of a cartridge case or shell casing. These markings provide valuable information about the ammunition, including its caliber, manufacturer, and sometimes even the year of production. Understanding headstamps is important for shooters, collectors, and anyone who wants to identify the type of ammunition they’re dealing with. Here’s what you can typically learn from ammo headstamps:

What you Can Learn From Ammo Headstamps

Caliber or Gauge:

The most basic information provided by a headstamp is the caliber or gauge of the ammunition. This is usually represented by a number followed by a unit of measurement (e.g., “9mm,” “45 ACP,” “12 GA” for 9mm Luger, .45 ACP, and 12-gauge shotgun, respectively).

Manufacturer:

The headstamp often includes the name or initials of the ammunition manufacturer. This helps users identify the source of the ammunition. For example, “WIN” stands for Winchester, “PMC” for Precision Made Cartridges, and “Federal” for Federal Ammunition.

Country of Origin:

Some headstamps indicate the country where the ammunition was manufactured. This can be important for collectors or those interested in the origins of their ammunition. For instance, “USA” indicates the United States, “RUAG” represents Swiss-made ammunition, and “TULA” stands for Tula Cartridge Works in Russia.

NATO Symbol:

Military ammunition may feature NATO symbols, which indicate compliance with NATO standards for ammunition. This often includes a circle with a cross in the center. It signifies the ammunition meets NATO specifications.

Lot Numbers and Codes:

Manufacturers may include lot numbers or production codes on the headstamp, which are used for quality control and traceability. These numbers or codes are typically not standardized and may vary between manufacturers.

Year of Production:

Some headstamps include the year it was manufactured, usually in a two-digit format. This helps determine the age of the ammunition. For example, “21” could represent the year 2021.

Symbols and Special Markings: Special symbols or markings can offer specific information. For example, a “+” sign next to the caliber might indicate higher pressure loads, while a “G” may denote tracer rounds.

Proof Marks:

In some countries, proof marks or stamps indicate the ammunition has undergone testing and meets safety standards.

Metric vs. Imperial Units:

Depending on the manufacturer and country of origin, you may find headstamps using metric units (e.g., “9mm”) or imperial units (e.g., “.45 ACP”). This can be important for ensuring you select the correct ammunition for your firearm.

While headstamps often follow some conventions, they can also vary significantly based on the manufacturer’s preferences and country-specific regulations. So, it’s important to consult reliable references or seek expert advice if you’re unsure about any markings on your ammunition.

Understanding ammo headstamps can enhance safety, help identify collectible ammunition, and ensure you’re using the correct cartridges for your firearm. Always exercise caution when handling and using ammunition and follow proper safety procedures.

What Lot Numbers on Ammunition Boxes Can Tell You

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A lot number is a unique code utilized in manufacturing that enables many valuable benefits during and after the manufacturing process. Lot numbers on ammunition boxes are crucial for several reasons:

Quality Control

Lot numbers are used to identify batches of ammunition for quality control purposes. By assigning a unique lot number to each batch, manufacturers can track the components and manufacturing processes for that specific lot. This allows them to address any potential quality issues or defects from production.

Safety and Reliability

Ammunition has to meet strict safety and reliability standards to function properly and minimize the risk of accidents. Lot numbers help ensure each round in a box or case comes from the same production batch and performs consistently. This consistency is critical to shooter safety.

Recalls and Defect Identification

In case of a safety concern or a defect, the lot number is used to identify the affected products quickly. Manufacturers can issue recalls or safety notices for just that lot, allowing consumers and retailers to return the ammunition. This helps prevent accidents.

Ballistics Data

Lot numbers can also be important for tracking ballistics data. For precision shooters, hunters, or law enforcement officers, knowing the lot number of their ammunition can help them keep accurate records of shot placement, accuracy, and performance. This data can be critical for training, analysis, and assessment.

Many countries have strict regulations governing the production, sale, and distribution of ammunition. Lot numbers help manufacturers comply with these regulations by providing a simple means of tracking production and distribution.

Inventory Management

Lot numbers simplify inventory management for both manufacturers and retailers. They help keep track of the age and origin of ammunition stock, allowing for proper rotation, storage, and management of inventory so older ammunition is used first, reducing the risk of deterioration over time.


Lot numbers on ammunition boxes are vital to quality control, safety, and accountability in the ammunition industry. They help manufacturers maintain consistency, identify and address issues, and provide essential information to consumers and regulatory authorities. These lot numbers ultimately contribute to the safe and reliable use of ammunition by shooters and law enforcement personnel.

Steps in the Ammunition Manufacturing Process

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The ammunition manufacturing process involves several steps, from the acquisition of raw materials to the packaging of the finished product. This process can vary, depending on the type of ammo and the manufacturing facility, but here is a general overview.

Raw Material Acquisition

  • Brass: Most metallic ammunition casings are made from brass. Raw brass material comes from suppliers in sheets or coils.
  • Lead: Lead is commonly used for bullet projectiles. Lead ingots are then processed.
  • Gunpowder: Smokeless powder, the propellant used in most ammunition, is produced by chemical manufacturers.
  • Primers: Primers are typically made separately and then inserted into the cartridge case. They consist of brass cups, anvil, priming compound, and a sealing compound.

Case Manufacturing

  • Brass sheets or coils are cut into small discs, then stamped and drawn into the shape of cartridge cases.
  • The brass cases are inspected for defects and undergo annealing, which softens the brass for processing.

Primer Manufacturing

  • The primer cups are formed from brass and may be coated with a layer of priming compound.
  • Anvil pins are inserted into the cups, and priming compound is added to complete the primer.

Bullet Manufacturing

  • Lead cores are formed, and jackets are made from copper or other materials.
  • The lead core is inserted into the jacket, and the bullet is formed through a series of swaging or pressing operations.
  • Bullets are inspected for weight and quality.

Powder Charging

  • A precise amount of smokeless powder is added to each cartridge case.

Primer Insertion

  • Primers are inserted into the base of the cartridge cases using automated machinery.

Bullet Seating

  • Bullets are seated into the cartridge cases, ensuring they’re properly aligned and seated to the correct depth.

Crimping

  • The case mouth is crimped around the bullet to hold it securely in place.

Quality Control

  • Ammunition goes through several quality control checks, including dimensional checks, weight checks, and visual inspections.

Packaging

  • The finished ammunition is loaded into boxes or trays.
  • Packaging may also include informational labels, safety warnings, and lot numbers for traceability.

Boxing and Storage

  • Boxes of ammunition are palletized and stored in warehouses for distribution.

Distribution

  • The boxed ammunition is shipped to distributors, retailers, law enforcement agencies, and military customers.

Throughout the entire process, strict quality control measures ensure the safety and reliability of the ammunition. Quality control includes testing samples of ammunition for accuracy, consistency, and reliability through ballistic testing and other means. Safety regulations and industry standards prevent accidents and ensure the final product meets specifications.

Tips for Extending the Shelf Life of Ammunition

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Extending the shelf life of your ammunition is essential to firearm safety and effectiveness. Proper storage and maintenance can help ensure your ammunition is reliable for as long as possible. Here are the top ways to extend the shelf life of your ammunition:

  • Store in a cool, dry place: Ammunition should be stored in a location where temperature and humidity levels are stable. Avoid extreme heat, cold, and damp environments, as moisture can lead to corrosion and reduce the effectiveness of powder and primers.
  • Use airtight containers: Use airtight metal or plastic containers, ammo cans, or vacuum-sealed bags to protect your ammunition from moisture and contaminants. These containers can also prevent exposure to oxygen, which can lead to oxidation.
  • Keep it away from direct sunlight: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight can degrade the quality of ammunition over time. Store your ammunition in a dark or shaded area to prevent UV exposure.
  • Use desiccants: Place desiccant packs or silica gel inside your storage containers to help absorb moisture and maintain low humidity levels.
  • Inspect regularly: Check your ammunition for signs of damage or corrosion on a regular basis. Look for dents, rust, or discoloration. If you find damaged rounds, dispose of them properly.
  • Rotate stock: If you have a substantial ammunition collection, practice a “first in, first out” (FIFO) approach. Use older ammunition before newer purchases to ensure nothing sits in storage for too long.
  • Label and date: Clearly label your ammunition containers with the date of purchase or storage to help you keep track of when they were sealed. This allows you to monitor the age of your ammunition and replace it as necessary.
  • Avoid exposure to solvents and oils: Keep ammunition away from solvents, oils, and chemicals that can damage the casing, primer, or powder. Store ammunition separately from cleaning supplies and firearms.
  • Handle with care: Avoid dropping or rough handling, as it can damage the primer and reduce reliability.
  • Use corrosion inhibitors: Use corrosion-inhibiting products specifically designed for ammunition storage. These products create a protective barrier against moisture and oxidation.
  • Maintain proper firearm storage: Properly storing your firearms also indirectly affects ammunition. A securely stored firearm is less likely to be exposed to environmental conditions that could harm your ammunition.
  • Follow manufacturer recommendations: Different ammunition manufacturers may have specific guidelines for storage. Check the packaging or manufacturer’s website for any recommendations related to storage and shelf life.

Remember that even with proper storage, ammunition does have a finite shelf life. Over time, the chemical composition of the powder and primers can change, affecting performance. It’s a good practice to periodically replace older ammunition with fresh stock to maintain reliability and safety.

A Guide to Selecting Home Defense Ammunition: Making Informed Choices for Safety

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Choosing the right ammunition for home defense is critical to keeping yourself and loved ones safe while minimizing the risk to innocent bystanders. Here are some steps to help you make the best choice:

  1. Know Your Local Laws: Before purchasing any ammunition or firearms, make sure you’re familiar with ammunition and self-defense laws and regulations in your area. Laws can vary widely by country, state, and even city, so it’s important to do your research.
  2. Select a Suitable Firearm: The best ammo will depend on the type of firearm you choose for self defense. Common choices for home defense include handguns, shotguns, and sometimes rifles. Ensure your firearm is reliable and easy to use and stay on top of regular maintenance.
  3. Consider Caliber and Gauge: The caliber or gauge of ammunition you choose should match your firearm. Common calibers for handguns include 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. For shotguns, 12-gauge and 20-gauge are common choices. Select a caliber or gauge you can handle comfortably and accurately.
  4. Choose Ammunition Type: Different types of ammunition are designed for different purposes. For home defense, you generally want ammunition that provides effective stopping power while minimizing over-penetration (the bullet passing through walls and potentially harming innocent people nearby). Hollow point bullets can be a great choice for handguns because they expand on impact, reducing the risk of over-penetration. For shotguns, buckshot or specialty home defense shotshell rounds are good options.
  5. Test Ammunition: Test your ammunition with your firearm to ensure it functions reliably and accurately. Go to a shooting range and practice with the ammunition you plan to use for self-defense. This will help you become familiar with how your firearm handles that particular ammo.
  6. Consider Recoil: Recoil can impact your accuracy and follow-up shots. Choose ammunition you can control comfortably, especially if you’re not an experienced shooter. High-recoil loads can be challenging to handle effectively.
  7. Seek Professional Advice: If you’re uncertain about which ammunition to choose, consult a knowledgeable firearms instructor or self-defense expert. They can provide guidance based on your specific needs and circumstances. In another helpful article, we discuss some of the most popular ammunition choices for self-defense.
  8. Stock Up Responsibly: While it’s important to have enough ammunition for self-defense, make sure you store it securely and responsibly, following local regulations. Keep it out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals.
  9. Regularly Inspect and Replace: Ammunition can degrade over time, so periodically inspect your home defense ammunition for signs of damage or corrosion. Replace old ammunition so you know your supply is reliable.

Remember that your primary goal in a home defense situation should be to protect yourself and your loved ones while minimizing the risk to others. Engage in proper firearm safety training and consider other non-lethal options such as alarm systems, security doors, and self-defense courses to complement your overall home defense strategy.

Ammo Storage Ideas

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Every gun owner wants to avoid the sunk cost of their ammo going bad because of humidity or other environmental factors. In addition, comprised ammunition can cause serious damage to the weapon or even the shooter. So, how can you preserve your ammo and keep it organized for reloading efficiency?

Here are some important considerations for how to store your ammunition.

Ammo Storage Considerations

Safety, Security, and Preservation – in that order. Those are the key considerations for storing ammo and firearms. It’s important to note that some state and local laws may require ammo and firearms to be stored separately. Be sure to check your local laws.

Keep these points in mind when you’re considering how to store your ammo:

  • Ammo should be stored separately from firearms, so they can only be accessed by those with the authority to do so.
  • Storing ammo and firearms separately may reduce the risk of children or other family members loading and improperly using a firearm.
  • Chemically reactive primer and propellant need to be stored in certain conditions to keep them from getting ruined.
  • Storing ammo correctly extends its shelf life by preventing it from expiring or going bad.
  • Ammo is expensive. You save money by keeping your ammo preserved.

Important Considerations for How & Where to Store Ammo

Let’s review some of the most common and useful practices for storing ammunition.

Location

Ammo should be kept in a cool, dry, dark climate. Modern ammo will be minimally affected by heat but could be compromised by rapid changes in climate—like humidity levels. Humidity is the enemy and can cause corrosion.

A room temperature environment that experiences few temperature fluctuations, like a basement or den, is ideal for storage because it is protected from extreme heat or cold and doesn’t experience humidity.

Any of these weather conditions can eventually cause the primer or propellant in the ammunition to expire or go bad, leading to misfires and jams later down the line. If moisture is a consistent concern, you can place desiccant packs nearby or use a dehumidifier to draw that moisture away.

Organization

Ammo should be stored so that it is readily identifiable — many calibers of ammunition look similar and could easily be mistaken and loaded into the wrong firearm if they are not properly identified.

Labeled ammo cans can serve this purpose. Powder Valley offers an array of aftermarket ammo boxes designed for different cartridge types. These utility storage boxes are built for toughness and long-term durability, protecting your ammo from water damage, sunlight, dust, and theft.

It’s also helpful to sort your ammunition by date of purchase so that when you go out shooting, you make sure to use your older rounds first.

Safety

As noted above, like your firearms, your ammunition should always be securely stored to prevent access from unauthorized persons. Many gun safes, for instance, have separate compartments for ammunition storage.

You can increase your firearms security with ammo and gun lock boxes and keypad vaults

from Powder Valley.

Choose Powder Valley for Your Ammo Reloading Products

When it comes to reloading and ammo, Powder Valley has everything you need for handgun and rifle ammunition in one convenient online location. When you shop ammunition with us, you can trust that your ammo comes from trusted manufacturers and is made to meet the highest standards and expectations. Start shopping today or contact us for more information.

History of Hodgdon Powder

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Drafted into the armed forces at the age of 33 in 1943, Bruce Hodgdon entered the Navy and began serving as an instructor to aerial gunners. As he listened to a chemist reminisce about World War I, Hodgdon’s ears perked up at the mention of large quantities of surplus smokeless powder being dumped into the ocean after the war.

Hodgdon wisely surmised that World War II might bring about a similar situation once the war concluded and began researching the possibility of purchasing the surplus powder for resale. This was a big risk: Hodgdon had no place to store the gunpowder, and he held reservations about the shooting public’s willingness to purchase the propellant. Still, when the war ended, he purchased 50,000 pounds of surplus 4895 powder.

Humble Beginnings

His marketing strategy began humbly with the purchase of one-inch ad space in the American Rifleman publication. In 1947, he made his first sale: 150 pounds of 4895 powder for $30. The powder was contained in metal cans with hand-glued labels and delivered by Bruce and his two boys, J.B. and Bob. As the business grew, the boys began to deliver shipments of powder to train terminals en route to school.

Soon after, Bruce realized that he could build a loyal customer base by teaching customers how to hand-load and by publishing load data.

Focus on Handloading

Post-World War II, most powder manufacturers in the United States shifted towards a loaded ammunition sales model, all but abandoning the prior model of handloading component sales. As one of the only providers of handloading materials, enthusiasts began experimenting with Hodgdon’s powders and eventually were able to achieve superior ballistic profiles to those provided by mass-produced ammunition.

Before long, customers began to recognize the name “Hodgdon”, associating it with handloading like customers associate Coca-Cola with soft drinks. At this time, the Hodgdons began to expand their product offerings beyond powder, offering reloading components, firearms, and ammunition.

By 1952, the business had picked up remarkably. Bruce quit his day job with the Gas Service Company and officially launched B.E. Hodgdon, Inc.

In the early 60s, Bruce Hodgdon and a coalition of other powder retailers successfully convinced the ICC (the 1960s version of today’s Department of Transportation) to downgrade smokeless powder shipments to the 1.4C classification, which allowed powder retailers to ship their products (under 100 pounds) with any carrier, greatly improving their ability to sell to a wider customer base.

The business expanded rapidly through the 1960s on the heels of this policy change, which led to Hodgdon splitting the business in two: one firearm wholesaling subsidiary, and one powder subsidiary. Eventually, other firearms and ammunition companies noticed the success that Hodgdon Powder was having and began offering their own smokeless powders for sale. Still, Hodgdon Powder maintained a strong customer base, leading the industry through trend after trend.

Hodgdon Powder Company Still Going Strong

Today, Hodgdon Powder Company maintains its status as the elite powder provider even after Bruce’s death in 1997. Manufacturing smokeless propellants that meet the needs of all reloaders, Hodgdon Powder Company currently offers a huge selection of smokeless powder, muzzle-loading powder, and safety fuses, among other products.

Among Hodgdon’s most popular products in the modern day is their Varget powder, which is particularly popular among competitive .223 Remington shooters due to its ability to improve ballistics for .22-250 Remington, .308 Winchester, 30-06, .375 H&H, and other popular rounds.

Why Is Stopping Power Important When Hunting?

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In a hunting context, stopping power is important for minimizing the animal’s suffering. A round that drops the prey in its tracks is more likely to achieve quick terminal results than one which leaves the creature on its feet.

Five factors that affect a shot’s stopping power are:

  1. Bullet placement
  2. Kinetic energy
  3. Wound channel
  4. Element of surprise
  5. Anatomy

Here at Powder Valley, we’re proud to support hunters who practice their sport in a safe and humane action. That’s why we stock the very best reloading powders and products available anywhere. Combine these benefits with our fair pricing and timely shipping, and it’s easy to see why we’re the one-stop source for firearms owners across the US.

Browse our site to stock up on all your shooting and reloading supplies. In the meantime, let’s take a closer look at what “stopping power” means for hunters.

Five Factors That Lead to a Quick Kill

In self-defense situations, shooting experts draw a distinction between stopping power and killing power. That’s because the primary goal when dealing with a human attacker is to end the threat to innocent people as fast as possible. Actually killing the assailant (known as “terminal results”) is never the primary goal.

A different set of priorities applies when the scenario changes to a hunting environment. Inflicting suffering on the animal is never desirable, so the goal of every ethical hunter is to cause terminal results as fast as possible. Here are five factors that help to achieve this goal:

  1. Bullet placement – here the idea is to interrupt the function of vital organs such as the heart. This requires a hunter who is familiar with the prey’s general anatomy and where to place each round.
  2. Kinetic energy & caliber size– this refers to ballistic factors like bullet weight, size, construction, and velocity. In general, faster and heavier bullets are more likely to achieve quick terminal results.
  3. Wound channel – this term refers to the path the bullet takes inside the animal. A bullet that breaks apart and tumbles as it passes through the body creates multiple forms of trauma that cause the prey to drop in its tracks.
  4. Element of surprise – a skilled hunter is also a stealthy hunter. He or she will approach the prey so that the animal never detects a human presence. When the element of surprise is lacking, the animal’s bloodstream will be filled with adrenaline and other stress hormones that will only prolong its suffering.
  5. Anatomy – large animals such as deer, elk, and moose have thick layers of fat, muscle, and fur that protect their vital internal organs. It’s important to match your ammunition to the type of prey you’re hunting, so that you can overcome these natural defenses as swiftly as possible.

These five factors are the primary variables that lead to a quick kill. Keep them in mind as you prepare for your next hunting trip. Remember also that safety always comes first, so stay alert and responsible whenever you’re carrying firearms.

Powder Valley Has What You Need for Shooting Success

Take a look at hunters that come home empty-handed. More often than not, their mistake was going into the field poorly equipped.

You’ll never have this problem if you buy your supplies from Powder Valley.

That’s because we carry a giant selection of black powder, casings, reloading presses, smokeless powder, and bullets of every type and caliber. Our quality is unsurpassed and our customer service is legendary.

Browse our site and make your selections today. Remember, we can help you to shoot more and pay less than before.