When you’re at the gun store, you may find yourself wondering what the difference is between target and hunting ammo. Do you need different ammo for different types of guns? Is one better than the other? The truth is, there is a difference between target and hunting ammo. The main difference is in the type of bullets that are used. Target ammo is typically made with lighter bullets that are less likely to do damage to the target. Hunting ammo, on the other hand, is made with heavier bullets that are designed to kill prey. So, which one should you use? It depends on what you’re shooting at. If you’re just shooting targets, then target ammo will suffice. However, if you’re planning on hunting, you’ll need to use hunting ammo.
Target Ammo vs. Hunting Ammo
When it comes to target ammo vs. hunting ammo, there are a few key differences that you should be aware of. Target ammunition is typically lighter and travels at a faster velocity than hunting ammunition. This is because target ammo is designed to minimize recoil and maximize accuracy. Hunting ammunition, on the other hand, is typically heavier and travels at a slower velocity. This is because hunting ammo is designed to penetrate deep into an animal’s body, causing maximum damage.
So, which type of ammo should you use for your next hunt? It really depends on what you’re hunting and how you want to take your game. If you’re after smaller game like rabbits or squirrels, target ammo will do just fine. But if you’re after larger game like deer or elk, you’ll want to use hunting ammo for the best results.
The Different Types of Target Ammo
There are generally three types of target ammo: full metal jacket (FMJ), plated lead, and unjacketed lead. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
– FMJ is the most popular type of target ammo. It’s affordable and has a high accuracy rate. However, it can be damaging to your gun if used too often.
– Plated lead is another popular choice for target shooting. It’s less likely to damage your gun and is just as accurate as FMJ. However, it’s more expensive than FMJ.
– Unjacketed lead is the least popular type of target ammo. It’s not as accurate as the other two choices and can damage your gun more easily. However, it’s the cheapest option.
When choosing target ammo, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. Overall, if you’re looking for the most affordable option, unjacketed lead is a good choice. If you’re looking for the most accurate option, plated lead is a good choice. And if you’re looking for a balance of affordability and accuracy, FMJ is a good choice.
The Different Types of Hunting Ammo
There are three main types of hunting ammo:
- Rifle ammo. Rifle ammunition is the most popular type of hunting ammo. It is available in a variety of calibers, such as .22, .223, .308, and .30-06. Rifle ammo is designed for long-range shooting and can be used to take down large game animals.
- Shotgun ammo. Shotgun ammunition is designed for close-range shooting and is available in a variety of gauges, such as 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and 410 gauge. Shotguns are typically used to hunt birds and small game animals.
- Handgun ammo. Handgun ammunition is available in a variety of calibers, such as .22, .38, .357, and .44. Handguns are typically used for self-defense or to take down small game animals.
Pros and Cons of Target Ammo
There are a few key differences between target and hunting ammunition, which we will explore in this article. But first, let’s briefly touch on the pros and cons of target ammo.
Target ammo is typically more accurate than hunting ammo because it’s designed for precision shooting. It’s also generally more expensive because it uses higher quality components. However, target ammo may not be as reliable as hunting ammo in terms of feeding and ejecting from your firearm, and it may not have the same level of power or penetration as hunting ammo.
So, what’s the bottom line? If you’re looking to shoot targets with extreme precision, then target ammo is probably your best bet. But if you need a round that will reliably feed and eject in your firearm, and that has enough power to take down game, then hunting ammo is probably a better choice.
Pros and Cons of Hunting Ammo
Here are some of the pros and cons of each type of ammunition:
Pros:
– More likely to expand and penetrate given its design.
– Often available in a wider range of calibers.
Cons:
– Can be more expensive than target ammo.
– Not always as accurate as target ammo.
Which One is Right for You?
When it comes to target and hunting ammo, there are a few key differences that you should be aware of. Target ammo is typically designed to be more accurate, with a tighter tolerance for bullet size and weight. Hunting ammo, on the other hand, is designed for more power and penetration, making it ideal for taking down big game.
So, which one is right for you? Well, it depends on what you’re using your firearm for. If you’re simply shooting at targets at the range, then target ammo will likely serve you just fine. However, if you’re looking to take down some big game, then you’ll need the extra power and penetration that hunting ammo provides.
Conclusion
There’s a big difference between target and hunting ammo, and it’s important to choose the right type of ammo for your needs. Target ammo is designed to be more accurate and have less recoil, while hunting ammo is designed for penetration and stopping power. If you’re not sure which type of ammo you need, talk to a professional at your local gun shop or shooting range.
