Choosing Ammunition for Post-SHTF Scenarios: FMJs vs Hollow Points

When a Situation Hits the Fan (SHTF) or an apocalypse occurs, proper ammunition and weapon selection become crucial. Understanding the types of ammunition available, such as Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) and Hollow Point (HP) rounds, can significantly impact your effectiveness and survival.

Types of Targets in SHTF Situations

Two primary types of targets typically arise in such scenarios:

Other humans who might pose a threat Game animals hunted for food

For the purposes of this discussion, we'll focus on the use of firearms in both scenarios, delving into the efficacy of different types of ammunition.

Animal Conservation and Food Source

It's important to consider the possibility of hunting game animals as a food source. In the immediate aftermath of an SHTF event, with many human survivors and scarce food sources, game animals would likely be depleted quickly.

However, if the area becomes very isolated and populated by very few humans, there might be enough time for wildlife conservation efforts. Over decades, these efforts could lead to a thriving wild animal population, providing a sustainable food source.

Choosing the Right Ammunition

The choice between FMJs and Hollow Points depends on the anticipated threats and situations:

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

FMJ bullets are lead-free and have a thin metal jacket that primarily protects the lead core. They are less likely to expand upon impact and are more stable in flight. They are preferable when targeting armored opponents or when there is a risk of over-penetration, such as when the target is behind barriers or in vehicles.

Hollow Points (HP)

Hollow Points are designed to expand upon impact, distributing the force of the bullet more widely within the target. This increases the likelihood of a quicker stop and reduces the risk of over-penetration, especially when hunting larger game animals.

Given the choice, for hunting game or during conflict where the objectives are to stop a threat quickly and efficiently, Hollow Points offer superior performance.

Stockpiling and Scavenging

In an SHTF situation, it's critical to have a stockpile of ammunition, especially if there is a need for immediate protection. Choosing the appropriate type of ammunition becomes even more important when these resources are limited.

Without a large stockpile and under low-tech conditions, manufacturers may revert to using black powder and simple smooth bore barrels. Making rounds like Hollow Points in this setting would require specialized knowledge and materials, making FMJs a more practical choice for survival.

Conclusion

For most scenarios in the immediate aftermath of an SHTF event, Hollow Points would be the better choice due to their superior stopping power and efficiency. However, the context and available resources play significant roles in this decision.

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