Final answer:
Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) refers to a type of bullet with a metal jacket encasing a lead core and a hollow point for expansion to increase stopping power and reduce over-penetration. It is commonly used in self-defense and law enforcement.
Step-by-step explanation:
In regards to ammunition, JHP stands for Jacketed Hollow Point. This type of bullet design is popular for both self-defense and law enforcement uses. The term Jacketed refers to the outer covering of the bullet, typically composed of a harder metal like copper or brass, which encases a softer lead core. The hollow point denotes the indentation in the tip of the bullet. When a JHP bullet strikes a target, the soft lead core deforms inside the jacket and allows for expansion, creating a larger wound channel than a non-expanding bullet would. The expansion also helps to transfer more energy into the target, potentially stopping threats more efficiently and reducing the risk of over-penetration that might endanger bystanders.
The design of the JHP provides a balance between penetration and stopping power, as the metal jacket aids the bullet in feeding smoothly into the chamber from a magazine and in penetrating barriers, while the hollow point facilitates expansion upon impact. JHP bullets are available in various calibers and are manufactured by many different ammunition companies. It's important to note that while JHP rounds are often preferred for self-defense, other types of ammunition may be more suitable for training or competitive shooting due to cost, accuracy, or other factors.