A bullet is a pointed metal cylinder that is shot from a gun. A bullet is a part of an ammunition cartridge. Sometimes, ammunition cartridges and bullets mean the same. Do you know how bullets are made? A variety of metals is used to manufacture bullets. However, since the very beginning, bullets have been made from lead or lead alloys. Copper or an alloy of copper and zinc is used to make bullet jackets. Today, metals such as aluminum, bronze, copper, steel, tin and tungsten are used to manufacture bullets. Lubricants are also used in bullet-manufacturing. Carnauba palm is used to extract carnauba wax. This wax is then used as a lubricant for bullets. Why is lubrication necessary? It helps reduce friction between the bullet and the machinery.

Ammunition can be used for a variety of purposes viz. hunting, military, target shooting, and self-defense. That is why different types of ammunition are manufactured to address different requirements. The design of a bullet depends on the size and type of firearm. While a large bullet may jam in the barrel and cause the barrel to explode, an excessively small one would not support the rifling action. Bullet weight is important too.

Accuracy, precision, bullet speed, effectiveness at a particular range, target penetration and level of impact are some of the variables that are taken into account while designing bullets. Testing of bullets is a scientific affair that involves a number of mathematical calculations. Military bullets are heavier than the bullets used in hunting, or for self-defense. Lighter bullets are use for hunting purpose. Partially jacketed bullets are generally used for larger targets. Bullets can also be used as accessories. However, such bullets are harmless, and cannot be used for any destructive process. Generally made out of silver, such bullets can be used as dog-tags too. Search the World Wide Web to know more about such accessories.