Of course the gun itself is important, but so is the ammo. In many modern semi-automatic weapons, the ammo can be the difference between hitting a target and holding a jammed weapon—and in a critical defense situation, a jammed weapon that won’t cycle properly can put you in grave danger. So, while this isn’t so much of a problem with revolvers, semi-automatic handguns can be finicky about the type of ammo they feed.
With that in mind, here are some things to consider when you go to pick up your next box of ammunition in Olathe, KS.
Brass, steel or aluminum?
When it comes to ammo, the casing does matter in some guns. While aluminum casings are cheaper, the soft metal expands when the gunpowder inside explodes. Sometimes this can mean the pistol’s extractor, which pulls the spent casing out of the gun, is unable to eject the casing cleanly. Many experts would advise that you avoid aluminum-cased rounds for personal defense purposes.
Steel is also pretty soft, but does not tend to jam or warp like aluminum casings. And steel casings sometimes have a waxy coating on them that can gum up firearms more quickly. As for brass, it’s a safe bet for either target shooting or personal defense.
Lead or copper?
There has been a lot of discussion lately about whether lead should be used in ammunition in Olathe, KS. Lead, as you may know, has significant environmental implications, which is why in sensitive areas—especially around water sources—lead should be avoided. If a lot of lead is allowed to accumulate in a hillside or near a drinking water source, it can mean a dangerous situation. Know that having to pay to clean up your property of lead ammo to abate the lead buildup can be expensive.
Standard, +P or magnum?
So you thought all ammo was the same? Well, the varieties can be as different as day and night. If you aren’t paying close attention, you could damage your gun and even injure yourself.
For example, let’s say you buy a .38 special, but accidentally grab .38 +P ammo on your way to the range. Once you drop those rounds into your gun and pull the trigger, the more powerful ammo could damage your gun and potentially injure you. .38 caliber ammunition isn’t the only type that you need to consider when it comes to the charge behind the bullet, so be sure to double check the ammo before putting it in your gun.
Get the right ammo
There are many ammunition varieties that sound similar. 9mm Luger gets confused with 9mm Kurtz, but the two are not interchangeable. Likewise, .357 Sig is not the same as .357 Magnum. Be sure to ask your ammo dealer whether the bullets you are buying are right for your gun.
Whether you need ammo for a modern day gun or one that’s pre-1899, remember to check out your local pawn shop first. At Harrison Street Pawn, we carry all sorts of ammunition in Olathe, KS—visit us today!