Bullets come in multiple types, varying in terms of size, purpose, and power. This gives firearm enthusiasts and professionals alike a ton of options for recreational and professional use. That said, some firearms and bullets are restricted for use by professionals in law enforcement and the military which is perfectly understandable until you realize that hollow point bullets don’t quite neatly fit into fixed “illegal” and “legal” categories.
So, are hollow points illegal? That depends. Let’s get into it.
What’s A Hollow Point Bullet?
Before we get into why are hollow points illegal, let’s explain what a hollow point is first.
Hollow point bullets are expanding bullets that were first introduced to the market around the 19th century. Back then, they were called “express bullets” because they were able to travel at a faster velocity compared to full metal jacket ammo. This also resulted in a lighter bullet that expand and stop inside the target.
But ever since full metal jacket ammo production became cheaper, these types of bullets became more accessible and a more popular choice among self-defense gun owners who don’t need the additional destructive power of a hollow point. Besides, a full metal jacket bullet these days tends to be sold at a relatively cheaper price point than most hollow points.
Full metal jacket bullets have softer cores encased with a hard metal alloy that lets them keep their trajectory better. This also allows it to glide through soft tissue as these bullets don’t tend to get stuck in their targets.
Meanwhile, hollow point rounds feature a hollowed tip that’s commonly referred to as a pit. Unlike full metal jacket bullets, they are designed to stop inside a target and stop a target in their tracks by expanding and causing additional damage versus a full metal jacket bullet.
This makes it a preferred bullet for hunters but it’s also the reason behind why, technically, hollow points are illegal.
Why Would A Hollow Point Bullet Be Illegal?
Though there are multiple answers to why are hollow points illegal, the answer ultimately comes down to the hollow point’s destructive power. Since it causes additional and “unnecessary” damage to its target, hollow points are seen as less humane than other bullet options.
This is why hollow point bullets are illegal under the 1899 Hague Convention. That said, the fact that it’s illegal under the Hague Convention doesn’t mean it’s illegal in most situations.
Hollow Points Are Illegal…But Only Under the 1899 Hague Convention
The 1899 Hague Convention, in case you’ve never heard of it before, is an international treaty on war that attempts to set rules on what weapons can be used for warfare. The goal of the document is to minimize the unnecessary damage and suffering that’s already common in war.
Among the many restrictions the Hague Convention set out to prohibit is the use of bullets that expand or flatten inside the body as part of international warfare. The keyword here is international warfare as the Hague Convention sets no rules on whether you can or can’t use them domestically.
Another key component of whether hollow points are illegal is the fact that the U.S. never ratified the Convention. Though it was signed on May 14, 1954, it is still pending ratification because it is yet to be submitted to the Senate.
Long story short, hollow points are only illegal if you’re not American. Of course, that’s not legal advice, but that’s the shortest way of putting it.
Where Can You Get A Hollow Point Bullet?
If you’re interested in getting hollow point bullets there are several options available online that you can choose from. Typically, though, you’ll find hunting pellets such as this Crossman Premier .22 Caliber Hollow Point Pellets.
Each can of the Crossman Premier .22 Caliber Hollow Points contains 500 lead pellets designed for hunting small game and pest control.
You can get these Crossman hollow points here.
The CCI Segmented Hollow Point Rimfire Ammo is another great option for hunters. It’s a .22 long rifle segmented hollow point. The CCI Segmented Hollow Point has bullets that split into 3 larger pieces on impact, ensuring that the animal you’re hunting will stop dead in its tracks. Literally.
Each box contains 50 rounds.
You can get the CCI Segmented Hollow Point Rimfire Ammo here.
