What Is the Difference Between Ammo and Bullets?
When it comes to firearms, nothing is more important than understanding the meaning of important terms. Take the word “bullet,” for example. What does it mean exactly?
Some people use it as a collective term for a fully assembled firearm round. But the correct phrase in this context is “cartridge,” or, to use a less formal term, “ammo.”
The term “bullet” refers specifically to the projectile at the tip of the cartridge, the part that flies out of the firearm’s barrel towards the target.
The part left after the bullet is fired is referred to as the “casing.” This is the cylindrical brass shell that held the gunpowder prior to discharge.
Bringing new life to old casings
Some shooters throw away their spent casings, but many reuse them if at all possible.
That in a nutshell is what reloading is all about. Here’s why every gun owner should learn how to reload:
- To save money: Ammunition gets more expensive all the time. Why spend a fortune on new cartridges when you can reuse your old casings at a fraction of the cost?
- To learn exactly how guns work: Reloading your own ammo takes you deep inside the inner workings of your firearm. You’ll know exactly how it functions and gain a new appreciation for the skill that goes into its design.
- To understand the art of gunsmithing: Few of us have the time and money needed to become a professional gunsmith. But all of us can develop critical gunsmithing skills by reloading our own ammo.
- To promote firearm safety: Owning a gun is a serious responsibility. Nobody knows this better than the person who reloads his or her own ammo. Understanding the care and precision that goes into the process will inspire you to treat any weapon with greater respect.
Not every used casing is reloadable, of course. That’s why one of the first things you’ll learn as a reloader is how to evaluate spent ammo. It’s important to reject any casing that’s damaged or defective.
Want to know more about bullets and ammo? Here’s where to begin.
As you can see, bullets, ammunition, and reloading is an in-depth topic that takes time and patience to master. But the benefits you will gain make the effort more than worthwhile.
Not sure where to start? Begin by investing in a reloading manual, which is an absolute must for every reloader. Follow its instructions to the letter.
For premium reloading equipment and supplies at the lowest possible prices, rely on Powder Valley.