Hollow Points vs. FMJ Ammo for Self-Defense

Hollow points and FMJ bullets are perhaps the two most popular options when it comes to ammunition, but which one is the superior choice for self-defense scenarios? Most seasoned shooters know that hollow point ammo is the best choice for self-defense, but we wrote this guide to help beginners learn more about each bullet type and which one you should choose for personal protection.

What Is FMJ Ammo?

FMJ stands for Full Metal Jacket. Most FMJ ammo features a soft lead core that is fully encased in hard metal, usually copper or copper alloys but may also use metals like steel alloys or hybrid composites. There are also TMJ (Total Metal Jacket) bullets on the market that fully encapsulate the bullet, while FMJ rounds leave the lead base exposed. TMJ ammo results in reduced fouling and lead exposure but typically come at a higher price point than FMJ bullets.

What Are FMJ Bullets Used For?

FMJ rounds are most commonly used for training purposes at the range because they are cost-effective and reliably feed into your firearm. Due to their design, FMJ bullets can easily penetrate barriers like clothing, glass, drywall, and other such obstacles. While this may seem like a powerful advantage, it provides a massive hazard of overpenetration which could put innocent civilians at risk.

What Is a Hollow Point Bullet?

While FMJ bullets feature a round-nose or flat-nose tip, hollow point (HP) bullets are built with a cavity at the tip that is designed to expand upon impact, also known as mushrooming. When hollow point ammo hits a soft target, pressure is created in the cavity that causes its edges to flare outward. This creates a larger wound channel while slowing the bullet down, preventing overpenetration of your target.

What Is the Purpose of Hollow Points?

Hollow point bullets are mainly designed for self-defense scenarios due to their incredible stopping power and reduced risk of overpenetration. While police may train with FMJ ammo, they keep their service weapons loaded with hollow point ammunition. Hollow points are also commonly used by hunters for the same reasons.

FMJ vs. Hollow Points for Self-Defense

By now you should know that hollow points are the superior choice for self-defense ammo. Make sure to check out our Guide on 9mm Hollow Points to learn more about the best ammo for personal protection. Here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of each to wrap it up:

FMJ Bullets

Pros:

Penetration: Effective against barriers like clothing, drywall, or glass.

Reliability: FMJ rounds feed consistently in semi-automatic firearms.

Affordability: Cost-effective for target practice.

Cons:

Overpenetration Risk: FMJ bullets often pass through targets, posing risks to bystanders or property beyond the intended target.

Limited Stopping Power: Narrow wound channels reduce effectiveness in incapacitating threats quickly.

Hollow Point Bullets

Pros:

Stopping Power: Rapid expansion maximizes damage, leading to quicker incapacitation of threats and animals.

Reduced Overpenetration: Hollow points are less likely to pass through the target, minimizing risks to bystanders.

Safety in Dense Areas: Ideal for self-defense in populated environments due to controlled penetration.

Cons:

Cost: Generally more expensive than FMJ rounds.

Potential Limitations: May struggle against barriers like light armor and concrete. Thick clothing can sometimes hinder expansion.