Whether you’re an experienced gun owner or just starting out, it’s essential to understand that not all bullets are created equal and maintaining your firearm properly is key to its performance and longevity. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of different types of bullets, and provide some valuable insights into the best practices for weapon cleaning.

The World of Bullets

Bullets, or more accurately, ammunition, come in a multitude of shapes and sizes, each with its unique characteristics and uses.

• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): These are standard for military use, known for their durability and reliability. FMJ bullets are designed to not expand upon impact, making them less destructive than other types.
• Hollow Points (HP): Unlike FMJ, HP bullets are designed to expand upon impact. This causes a larger wound channel, making them a popular choice for self-defense and hunting.
• Open Tip Match (OTM): Not to be confused with hollow points, OTM bullets have an open tip but aren’t designed to expand. They are precision-made for high accuracy, preferred by competition shooters.
• Frangible Bullets: These bullets are designed to disintegrate upon impact, reducing the risk of over-penetration. They are often used in shooting ranges or environments where ricochet could be hazardous.

Remember, the best bullet for your needs depends on your intended use. Always consider factors such as penetration, expansion, and recoil before making a choice.

The Importance of Weapon Cleaning

Maintaining a clean firearm is not just about aesthetics or a personal sense of satisfaction. It’s a matter of safety, performance, and ensuring the longevity of your valuable piece.

• Safety: A clean gun is a safer gun. Buildups of residue can lead to malfunctions, potentially causing dangerous mishaps.
• Performance: Regular cleaning maintains optimal performance. It helps maintain accuracy and reliability when shooting.
• Longevity: Over time, residue from shooting can corrode and wear down important components of your firearm, reducing its lifespan.

Weapon Cleaning: A Brief Guide

1. Safety first: Always ensure the firearm is unloaded before cleaning. Never assume it’s empty; always double-check.
2. Disassemble: Break down the firearm as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Most firearms will at least have a field-strip level of disassembly required for cleaning.
3. Clean: Use a quality solvent to clean all parts of the firearm. The barrel is especially important – use a bore brush for a thorough clean.
4. Lubricate: Once cleaned, lubricate moving parts with a high-quality gun oil. This reduces friction and wear.
5. Reassemble and Store: After lubrication, reassemble your firearm and store it properly. This often means in a cool, dry place, away from reach.

In conclusion, understanding your ammunition and maintaining your firearm are two key components of responsible gun ownership. At Advanced Arms, we offer a wide range of ammunition and cleaning supplies for all your needs. Make sure to check them out, and here’s to safe, informed shooting!