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All about guns

What Does Full Metal Jacket Mean?

September 2, 2020 by Jason Huskey

Last updated on October 11th, 2021

Example of full metal jacket bullet
Full Metal Jacket 9mm Bullet

If you have heard the term full metal jacket, then you might be wondering what this means. I know that growing up, I heard this term a lot. I dismissed it as some sort of saying or cliche. Eventually, I decided that I needed to figure out what people meant when they use this term.

The reality is that Full Metal Jacket can mean several things. Usually, this refers to ammunition.

Short Answer: Full Metal Jacket Is a Type of Bullet

Full Metal Jacket is often shortened to FMJ. This is a style of bullet that has a soft lead core that is surrounded by a harder metal. Of course, the actual meaning of this term is a bit more complicated.

Long Answer: Full Metal Jacket has a Longer History

While it is true that Full Metal Jacket is most commonly used to refer to ammunition, there are a few other points to keep in mind when it comes to this style of bullet.

First, the FMJ bullet was invented in the late 1800s by a Swiss soldier. There was a need to develop a new style of ammunition because there was a significant need for an improved mechanical performance of the bullets used by small firearms.

While pistols and revolvers had been used for years, some people were experiencing issues but the way their projectiles were firing. Therefore, this Swiss soldier decided to encase bullets in metal jackets.

As a result, the lead in bullets did not deform as easily, which led to improved firearm performance. 

Is FMJ the same as Ball Ammo?

Yes, FMJ is ball ammo. But FMJ is a subset of ball ammo. Generally any lead core bullet that is coated on top with a harder metal is called ball ammo.

Another example is TMJ, or total metal jacket. A TMJ bullet is completely coated while FMJ has an exposed lead base. If you were to take an FMJ bullet out of the cartridge you could see the exposed lead on the bottom of it.

Here is an interesting article on Ball Ammo.

Comparing FMJ Bullets to Jacketed Hollow Points (JHP)

When talking about FMJ bullets, they are commonly compared to jacketed hollow points, which is usually shortened to JHP.

FMJ VS JHP

When comparing JHP ammunition to Full Metal Jacket bullets, there are a few differences. The big difference is that the JHP bullet has a hole in the tip of the bullet. That’s where the term “hollow point” comes from.

9mm JHP for concealed carry
9mm JHP for concealed carry

This means that when the JHP bullet makes contact with the target, the bullet will expand like an umbrella. If this bullet strikes a person, when the bullet expands, it is going to create a much larger hole in the individual.

As a result, JHP bullets do carry more stopping power with them. They also tend to reduce the risk of over-penetration, where the bullet flies through the target and hits something or someone else behind them. 

While FMJ bullets can be used for self-defense purposes, they are more commonly used for sport shooting and target practice.

FMJ bullets can be expensive, but they are significantly cheaper than many of the alternatives. Therefore, they are great for high-volume shooting such as competitions and general practice.

Overall, full metal jacket bullets are not recommended for self-defense purposes because they will penetrate the target and possibly hit an innocent person behind the target.

Instead you should always load your concealed carry weapon with hollow points.

.380 JHP for Concealed Carry
.380 JHP for Concealed Carry

What Are the Types of FMJ Bullets?

When looking for FMJ bullets, there are a number of styles from which to choose. Over the years, this style has been refined and several different classes have been developed. Some of the most common classes include:

  • Truncated Cone: This is one of the most popular classes of FMJ bullets. The two main features of the style include aerodynamics and accuracy. When it comes to competitive shooting, this is one of the top choices. It flies so straight that it is going to leave perfectly symmetrical holes in the Target. As a result, referees tend to have fewer disputed calls with this style of FMJ. 
  • Flat Nose: The flat nose FMJ is also known for its accuracy. In general, it has a slightly wider diameter. As a result, the marks that it leaves are more prominent. This means that it is easier to spot hits and make swift decisions required during competitions. 
  • Boat Tail: This style of bullet is slightly different. The rounds, obviously, resemble the shape of a boat. They have a tapered rear. The goal of the boat shape is to increase the accuracy of this bullet and produce a more stable flight path. As a result, this class of bullet is commonly used by rifle shooters. Those who shoot rifles tend to aim at targets that are farther away. Therefore, stabilization during flight is far more important. 

These are just a few of the most common classes of FMJ bullets. 

What Are the Advantages of Using FMJ Bullets?

9MM FULL METAL JACKET BULLETS
9mm Full Metal Jacket Bullets

When it comes to FMJ bullets, there are a few major advantages that they produce. Some of the most significant points to note include:

  • Guns Do Not Jam As Much: With an FMJ bullet, the soft, lead core is encased by a jacket of metal. As a result, light is less likely to form. This means that fewer particles are left behind and that weapons are less likely to jam. This makes them more reliable. 
  • Accuracy: Because bullets are coated by metal, they are incredibly straight and symmetrical. Unlike bullets that have lead on the outside which deform easily, FMJ bullets will maintain their shape throughout the firing process. With this in mind, FMJ bullets are going to fly farther and strike the target with a greater degree of accuracy.
  • Extended Longevity of Firearms: Finally, because FMJ bullets feed dependably and do not jam, guns are going to last longer. As a result, firearm owners are going to get as much use as possible out of their weapons. Guns simply have fewer issues with FMJ bullets. 

These are just a few of the most common reasons why so many people use FMJ bullets. Overall, they might not be great for self-defense, but they do have their advantages. They are quite accurate, stable throughout the firing process, and do not jam guns easily.

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“Okay, so far I’ve dealt twice with LuckyGunner, and all I can say is, I LOVE YOUR COMPANY!!!!

Imagine: only items in stock are advertised. Who’da thunk, eh? The more highly advertised ones – Cheaper Than Dirt, Cabela’s, et. al. – will put you on backorder forever and a day. But LuckyGunner – I ordered 500 shells of .45 ACP (hard to get in this “shortage”) – and there it was at my address. No backorders, no bull. Business as it should be.

Yes, I’m telling my friends! I’m constantly writing down your addy on bits of paper (and running out of the latter), spreading the joyous news, “No backorders! No bull! Try LuckyGunner.com, you won’t be sorry!” Thank you for being there for an ammo-starved public. And, thanks for the SUPERB customer service.”

— Walter J., Silverdale, WA —
Get cheap bulk ammo at Lucky Gunner

Filed Under: All about guns

Who Makes the Most Popular Brands of Ammo

August 28, 2020 by Jason Huskey 1 Comment

Last updated on September 2nd, 2022

Different types of bullets
Image by Alexander Lesnitsky from Pixabay

If you are here to figure out who makes Herter’s ammo just look below the following table for a more thorough answer.

If you are looking for a specific type of ammo, then you need to start by figuring out who makes it. There are lots of options for ammunition and each type of bullet is made for a specific class of weapon. Furthermore, each type of bullet has its benefits and drawbacks. What are some of the most popular brands of ammo? Take a look at the following chart for a quick answer or read on to learn more. 

Who makes Herters Ammo?

Recently, the Herters brand was purchased by Cabela’s, one of the largest outdoor companies in the world. While Cabela’s is responsible for overseeing the manufacture of Herter’s ammunition, it actually contracts out the physical manufacturing.

There are a handful of countries that have placed bids to manufacture Herters ammunition and there are likely to be far more. As of right now, Cabela’s is responsible for overseeing the manufacturing of Herter’s ammunition. 

When you buy Herter’s ammunition you may see a Winchester marking on the case. Winchester does manufacture a lot of Herter’s ammo but not all of it. Several other popular brands have been known to contract out to Herter’s as well.

Who makes Sig Sauer Ammo?

Sig Sauer ammunition is one of the most popular types of ammunition in the world. Sig Sauer makes its own ammunition and it is made in the United States. Originally, Sig Sauer ammunition was made in Kentucky. Since that time, the line of ammunition made by Sig Sauer has grown tremendously. Now, the company makes pistol ammunition, rifle ammunition, and revolver ammunition. As a result, individuals are able to tailor their Sig Sauer ammunition to meet their unique needs. Given the strong reputation of reliability, Sig Sauer ammunition is one of the most widespread products throughout the world.

Who makes Browning Ammo?

There are lots of people who use Browning ammunition and wonder who makes it. In reality, Browning ammunition is actually made by a company called Winchester ammunition. The partnership between Browning ammunition and Winchester ammunition is under the purview of FN Herstal. FN Herstal is the parent company of Browning and manufactures Winchester firearms. Therefore, FN Herstal is actually responsible for firearms and ammunition that are owned by Browning and Winchester. Buy Browning Ammo.

Who makes Blazer Ammo?

Blazer ammunition is known for being clean and reliable. Those who are looking for ammunition that isn’t going to cost a fortune but do not want to sacrifice on the quality of the ammunition often turn to Blazer. Blazer does not make their own ammunition. Blazer ammunition is actually made by ATK. This is the same company that owns Federal. Blazer ammunition is known for producing some heavy hitters that all have strong reputations in the world of firearms.  Buy Blazer Ammo.

Who makes Monarch Ammo?

Monarch ammunition is known for being popular, reliable, and accurate. In reality, Monarch is not an actual manufacturer of ammunition. Instead, it is the house brand of Academy. Monarch ammunition, known for its brass casings, is actually manufactured in Serbia by a company called PPU. Furthermore, there’s a second company involved in the mix. Monarch ammunition also has a steel jacketed line that is made by Barnaul in Russia. The Barnaul Cartridge Plant is one of the largest plants in the world and manufactures ammunition for numerous firearm lines. 

Who makes PMC Ammo?

PMC ammunition is known for its high quality. It is super reliable in nearly every firearm from which this bullet is fired. PMC ammunition is actually made in South Korea. The Poongsan Corporation, certified by the ISO, produces cartridges that range from small arms to large cannons around the world. This company is known for producing ammunition for the South Korean military and also produces PMC ammo. Of note, PMC also has a plant that produces brass strips for its cartridges. Buy PMC Ammo.

Who makes Wolf Ammo?

Wolf Performance Ammunition is a trademark that is closely tied to Sporting Supplies International. Sporting Supplies International is based in the United States and is responsible for the manufacture of the ammunition. The company was founded back in 2005 and manufactures most of its ammunition in a cartridge plant located in Russia. One of the unique points regarding Wolf Ammunition is that the case is made out of steel instead of brass. As a result, the steel case is not as forgiving as brass. While some people think that this case may be dirty, it is actually high-quality ammunition that is both dependable and safe. Buy Wolf Ammo.

Who makes Fiocchi Ammo?

Fiocchi ammunition is actually a private company. They handle the manufacture of their own ammunition. The company has been in the family for more than five generations, totaling more than 140 years. To this point, the company has not yet outsourced the manufacturing of its own ammunition. The company is still headquartered in Via Santa Barbara, which is located in Lecco, Italy. The main production plant is located in this city as well. Buy Fiochhi Ammo. concealed carry classes

Who makes Wolf 22LR Ammo?

Wolf 22LR ammo is owned by wolf performance ammunition. Wolf Performance Ammunition has all of its ammunition manufacturing handled under the purview of its parent company, Sporting Supplies International. Given that Sporting Supplies International owns the trademark to Wolf Performance Ammunition, they are also responsible for Wolf 22LR ammunition and are responsible for its manufacture. Sporting Supplies International is one of the leading manufacturers of firearm products in the world. Buy Wolf Ammo.

Who makes Independence Ammo?

Independence Ammunition is owned by the same company that owns Estate ammo, CCI ammo, and Federal ammo. Independence Ammunition is contracted to IMI Israel Military Industries. This company is responsible for the manufacture of some of its highest demand calibers in the world. This includes the popular Independence 9 mm round, as well as the 40 caliber ammunition and the 45 caliber ammunition.

Who makes Perfecta Ammo?

While Perfecta is not as popular as it once was, it’s ammunition can still be found throughout the world. Perfecta ammunition is known for being reliable and is one of the most popular bulk ammo lines in the world. This line of ammunition is actually owned by Fiocchi ammunition. Fiocchi is still a privately owned company and has been in the Fiocchi family for more than five generations. Totaling more than 140 years, the company is still headquartered in Via Santa Barbara, where it makes its own ammunition. 

Who makes Magtech Ammo?

Magtech ammunition is a popular line throughout the firearms industry. The ammunition is known for being fairly priced and reliable.  Magtech is actually not a private company. It is owned by a company called CBC Global Ammunition. This is a holding group of companies or numerous firearm lines throughout the world. Other companies that are owned by CBC Global ammunition include Sellier and Bellot, in the Czech Republic, and MEN, in Germany. Because Magtech is owned by CBC Global ammunition, this company is responsible for the manufacture of its various lines of ammo.  Buy Magtech Ammo.

Who makes American Eagle Ammo?

American Eagle ammo is known for being powerful, reliable, and accurate. American Eagle does not actually make its own ammunition. This is another company that has contracted with American Eagle to handle the manufacturing process called ATK. ATK has been in the ammunition manufacturing business for a long time and has developed a strong reputation for always delivering a quality product. Therefore, this is a strong partnership and has contributed to the reputation that American Eagle ammunition has throughout the firearms world today. 

Who makes Ten Ring Ammo?

Ten Ring Ammo is a widespread brand that provides ammunition for rifles, shotguns, and pistols. The company has expanded its market significantly during the past few years, partnering with Target Sports USA to distribute its ammunition. That being said, Ten Ring Ammo is actually made by Dynamic Research Technology. Dynamic Research Technology is a company that has partnered with numerous other companies to handle the manufacture of various lines of ammunition. In addition, Dynamic Research Technology produces lead-free ammunition, jacketed ammunition, and numerous other types of rounds. 

Who makes CCI Ammo?

CCI Ammo is the abbreviated name of Cascade Cartridge, Inc. Unlike numerous other companies, CCI actually makes its own ammo. The company is based in Lewiston, ID. The company was founded by Dick Speer back in the early 1950s (the brother of Vernon Speer who founded Speer Bullets) and persists to this day. CCI produces centerfire handgun ammunition, rimfire ammunition, and primers for reloaders. Of note, CCI actually developed the Stinger bullet in 1975, which is found in the .22 Long Rifle. Even though CCI was purchased by Vista Outdoor (a spinoff of Alliant), CCI continues to make its own ammunition even to this day. Buy CCI Ammo.

Who makes Brown Bear Ammo?

Similar to some other companies, Brown Bear Ammo is actually made by Barnaul. The bullets are manufactured in the Barnaul Cartridge Plant JSC, which is located in Barnaul Altai Krai, Russia. The Barnaul Cartridge Plant was built in the 19th century and had to change its location during the Russian Civil War, which broke out at the end of World War I. The plant had to move a second time when Russia was invaded by Germany during World War II. At that time, the plant moved to its current location. Brown Bear Ammo is known for its hunting prowess. Many of the Brown Bear cartridges use lead-cored, full-metal jacket (FMJ) bullets. Brown Bear also has hollow point bullets, which are commonly used for self-defense.

Who makes Winchester Ammo?

At one point, Winchester was one of the most popular firearm companies in the world. It was founded in 1866 and did well for several decades. Eventually, the Winchester Repeating Arms Company had to file for bankruptcy. It was purchased by the Olin Corporation at a bankruptcy auction in 1931 and became a division of Olin in 1944. To this day, the Olin Corporation continues to handle the manufacture of Winchester ammunition, which is still seen as dependable and accurate. The Olin Corporation has a license to use the Winchester name in the United States (issued by the Browning Arms Company in Utah) as well as overseas (issued by Fabrique Nationale FN in Belgium).  Buy Winchester Ammo.Winchester 9mm ammo

Who makes Red Army Standard Ammo?

Red Army Standard Ammunition has a reputation for being powerful, reliable, and clean. Red Army Standard is actually owned by Century International Arms. Century International Arms is both an importer and manufacturer of firearms based in the United States. The company was founded in St. Albans, VT back in 1961. Century International Arms also has an international office located in Montreal. Red Army Standard Ammo supplies cartridges for the Makarov PM, AK-47 rifles, and the AKM. In addition to being manufactured by Century International Arms, Lugansk Cartridge Works also makes some Red Army Standard Ammo. Lugansk Cartridge Works is located in Lugansk, Ukraine. Buy Red Army Standard Ammo.

Who makes Sig Ammo?

Sig is actually short for Sig Sauer, which is one of the most widespread types of ammunition in the world and has developed a global reputation steeped in reliability. Sig actually is one of the few companies that still makes its own ammunition. The company originally manufactured its ammunition in Kentucky. While the ammunition is still made in the United States, the line has grown significantly and now has several plants throughout the country that are responsible for making its numerous types of ammunition. This includes pistol ammunition, rifle ammunition, and revolver ammunition.

Who makes Ammo Cans?

An ammunition box, also called an ammo can, is a container that is meant to help people safely and securely transport ammunition, ensuring it does not go off or is otherwise damaged in transit. While there are lots of companies that make these transportation devices, they are most closely associated with Mauser Packaging Solutions. This company has been manufacturing these boxes for more than six decades. Their packages are known for being rustproof and leak proof, ensuring that they will stand up well even under stressful conditions. Mauser Packaging Solutions also makes stackable boxes and cans that are used to store flares, mortars, and grenades.  Buy Ammo Cans.

Who makes Aguila Ammo?

Aguila ammunition is known for being powerful but can also leave a fair bit of residue behind. That being said, its .22 ammo is among the most popular in the world. Aguila ammo is actually manufactured by Industrias TECNOS, located in Mexico. The plant for this company was originally established by Remington, one of the most well-known firearms companies in the world. Aguila ammunition is also known for being reliable and accurate. Buy Aguila Ammo.

Who makes Field and Stream Ammo?

Field and Stream is known for being one of the biggest retailers of firearm products in the world. While Field and Stream is known for carrying top-performing firearms and ammunition from some of the biggest names in the world including Remington, Beretta, and Smith and Wesson, Field and Stream also makes its own line of ammunition. Their rounds are known for being compact, reliable, powerful, and accurate. In this manner, Field and Stream has risen dramatically in popularity during the past few years.

Who makes Cabelas Herters Ammo?

Herters used to be a private company; however, they are now owned by Cabela’s. As a result, Cabela’s is now responsible for the manufacture and sale of Cabela’s Herters ammunition. With this in mind, Cabela’s is planning on outsourcing the manufacture of its ammunition. They have already received a few bids and are likely to get more before deciding who they are going to hire to handle the physical manufacturing of Cabela’s Herters ammo. As of right now, they are still in control; however, Sellier & Bellot, as well as Cheddite, could end up contracting with Cabela’s Herters.

Who makes prograde Ammo?

Prograde ammunition has gone through some tumultuous times and has been rebranded several times. After separating from the Prograde name, they rebranded themselves as Pro Loading Services, also called PLS Partners. The ammunition is now sold under a brand called “406 Ammunition,” which is the area code for the entire state of Montana. Their ammunition can be found at retailers in Montana, such as Selway Armory.

Who makes Tulammo?

Tulammo is a privately owned company and they make their own ammunition. It is owned by Tula Cartridge Works and is made and manufactured in Russia. Accordingly, Tulammo ammunition is made in the Tula Cartridge Works plant, which is located in Tula, Russia. This is an arsenal city that is about 100 miles south of Moscow. Tulammo is extremely popular in Russia and is used by both Russian law enforcement personnel as well as the Russian military.Tulammo

Who makes Barnaul Ammo?

Barnaul is actually one of the few companies that makes its own ammunition. All of their ammunition is actually made at the Barnaul cartridge plant. This cartridge plant is located in Altai Krai, Russia. Barnaul is also contracted to make ammunition for several other companies that outsource their ammunition manufacturing processes. As a result, this company has developed a reputation for producing reliable ammunition.

Have you ever thought about buying ammo online?

I’m telling you it’s so easy with Lucky Gunner! The ammo shown on their site is guaranteed to be in stock and will ship fast. I heartily endorse Lucky Gunner and so do their many customers.

“Okay, so far I’ve dealt twice with LuckyGunner, and all I can say is, I LOVE YOUR COMPANY!!!!

Imagine: only items in stock are advertised. Who’da thunk, eh? The more highly advertised ones – Cheaper Than Dirt, Cabela’s, et. al. – will put you on backorder forever and a day. But LuckyGunner – I ordered 500 shells of .45 ACP (hard to get in this “shortage”) – and there it was at my address. No backorders, no bull. Business as it should be.

Yes, I’m telling my friends! I’m constantly writing down your addy on bits of paper (and running out of the latter), spreading the joyous news, “No backorders! No bull! Try LuckyGunner.com, you won’t be sorry!” Thank you for being there for an ammo-starved public. And, thanks for the SUPERB customer service.”

— Walter J., Silverdale, WA —
Get cheap bulk ammo at Lucky Gunner

Filed Under: All about guns

Can a 38 Special Shoot 357 Rounds?

August 27, 2020 by Jason Huskey 8 Comments

Last updated on February 13th, 2023

357 Magnum Revolver
Image by MikeGunner from Pixabay

I’ve long since discovered that very few activities give me the same thrill and sense of security as firing a gun. As a gun owner and enthusiast, I’ve always been curious about which guns can shoot which kinds of ammunition.

I have a Derringer five-shot revolver that uses .22 rounds. I also have a Remington 522 Viper. Before I had either, I assumed every type of gun required its own specific ammunition. Then I learned that I could use the same rounds in both of these guns.

However, I can’t use rounds for either of those in my 30-06 Remington 700. A .22 round is too small to create a proper seal inside the barrel (not to mention all the other issues) and would damage my 30-06.

This article is all about two very popular handgun bullets. Can a 38 special shoot 357 rounds?

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What’s the Difference Between a .38 Special and a .357 Magnum?

Both the .38 Special and .357 Magnum are rimmed, centerfire cartridges you use in revolvers. They have many similarities, almost too many to list, but they also have some notable differences we gun enthusiasts should understand.

History of the .38 Special and the .357 Magnum

38 special revolver
Photo by James Case CC BY 2.0

Benjamin Worthen at GunAndShooter says that the .38 Special is a derivative of the .38 Long Colt, which the U.S. Army used from 1892 to 1909. It arrived on the scene in 1898, and with its round nose, muzzle velocity, and just plain ease of use, it quickly became the ammunition of choice for private shooters and law enforcement alike.

In fact, law enforcement, including the FBI, used the .38 Special for nearly 70 years. Some law enforcement officers still do.

The .357 Magnum first appeared in 1934. More powerful than the .38 Special, police began to prefer it to the .38 Special because the criminal organizations of the time had the edge when it came to firepower. .357 Magnum rounds could penetrate things .38 Specials could not.

When Smith & Wesson was working on making a more powerful round for law enforcement to use during that era, they realized that giving the .38 Special a hotter load would put undue stress on their guns’ frames.

So they redesigned their .38 revolver to handle the higher pressure of a hotter round, which, in turn, would have better penetration and overall power.

Many people and organizations didn’t consider .357 Magnum rounds suitable for many common uses, though. For instance, Worthen says that while law enforcement does use the .357 Magnum, they tend to not like the harder recoil.

On the other hand, American Rifle says that the Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum revolver gained such popularity that they had to halt production until after World War II. When they resumed, they developed their current numbering system, which includes revolvers that use the .357 Magnum.

Gun owners of all types love both the .38 Special and the .357 Magnum because they’re quite versatile.

Primary Differences Between the Two

38 special bullets
Image by Steve Buissinne from Pixabay

The .38 Special’s case length is shorter than that of the .357 Magnum. .38 Specials also don’t have quite the same power as .357 Magnums. Reasons you’d want to use a .38 Special include:

  • Less recoil
  • Quicker follow-up shots
  • Cheaper than .357 Magnums
  • Decent performance in target shooting

However, a .38 Special isn’t necessarily suitable for everything. You might want a .357 Magnum for these reasons:

  • Large-game hunting
  • Duty weapons (law enforcement)
  • Home or personal defense
  • Target shooting farther than 50 yards

So Can a .38 Special Shoot .357 Rounds?

Woman firing a revolver
Photo by Skitterphoto at Pexels

I was amazed to find it wasn’t as straightforward a question as it might sound. Any gun enthusiast knows that you can’t shoot .22 rounds from a 30-06 rifle. That’s pretty black-and-white. However, when it comes to .38 Specials and .357 Magnums, the answer is a lot less clear-cut.

Here’s the surprising answer: Every gun that can fire a .357 Magnum can also fire a .38 Special, but not every weapon that can fire a .38 Special can fire a .357 Magnum. Why?

The .357 Magnum creates higher internal pressure than the .38 Special. If the gun’s frame is designed to withstand the higher pressure of the .357, then obviously it can withstand the lower pressure of the .38 Special.

On the other hand, if the gun can’t handle pressure higher than that of a .38 Special, then it can’t fire a .357 Magnum. The more powerful .357 will damage your gun.

It’s All About the Guns, Not the Rounds

When I started learning and shooting my first guns, I thought that .38 Specials and .357 Magnums were types of firearms. If you thought the same, don’t feel dumb – gun manufacturers tend to name their guns after the kind of ammunition they shoot, so it’s an easy mistake to make.

While the .357 Magnum is longer overall and has a longer cartridge, both rounds have precisely the same width. The bullet diameter is .357 inches, and the neck and base diameters are .379 inches.

Are There Any Other Rounds That Are Interchangeable?

I already touched on this with my Derringer and Remington 522, but I didn’t give any details about it. Now I’ll get a little deeper into whether or not a gun can fire different types of rounds, which depends on the pressure it can handle.

For instance, not all .223 rifles can handle a 5.56x45mm round, even though they look the same. The 5.56x45mm creates higher pressure. So, like a gun that can handle a .357 Magnum, a rifle that can handle a 5.56x45mm can handle a .223, but not the other way around.

If you’re looking for something that can fire multiple caliber rounds, look for a gun designed that way or that only requires quick and easy modification, like a barrel change.

You need rounds with the same width, and in some cases, the same length, for a single gun. Besides that, keep in mind that the answer to this question depends on pressure.

Have you ever thought about buying ammo online?

I’m telling you it’s so easy with Lucky Gunner! The ammo shown on their site is guaranteed to be in stock and will ship fast. I heartily endorse Lucky Gunner and so do their many customers.

“Okay, so far I’ve dealt twice with LuckyGunner, and all I can say is, I LOVE YOUR COMPANY!!!!

Imagine: only items in stock are advertised. Who’da thunk, eh? The more highly advertised ones – Cheaper Than Dirt, Cabela’s, et. al. – will put you on backorder forever and a day. But LuckyGunner – I ordered 500 shells of .45 ACP (hard to get in this “shortage”) – and there it was at my address. No backorders, no bull. Business as it should be.

Yes, I’m telling my friends! I’m constantly writing down your addy on bits of paper (and running out of the latter), spreading the joyous news, “No backorders! No bull! Try LuckyGunner.com, you won’t be sorry!” Thank you for being there for an ammo-starved public. And, thanks for the SUPERB customer service.”

— Walter J., Silverdale, WA —
Get cheap bulk ammo at Lucky Gunner

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