If you shoot a 9mm handgun, you’ve probably come across 115 grain full metal jacket (FMJ) ammunition. It’s a range staple, widely available, and often the most affordable option. But what makes it so popular? More importantly, is it the right choice for your shooting needs?

What Does “115 Grain FMJ” Mean?

Ammunition labels can be confusing if you’re new to shooting, but 115 grain FMJ is straightforward.

• 115 Grain – This refers to the bullet’s weight. A grain is a small unit of measurement, and 115 grains is considered light for 9mm.
• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) – The bullet has a soft lead core encased in a harder metal, usually copper. This reduces barrel fouling and makes feeding more consistent in semi-automatic pistols.
• Designed for Training and Target Shooting – Unlike hollow point rounds, which expand on impact, FMJ bullets are made for penetration and reliability.

Now that the basics are covered, let’s look at why this type of ammunition is so widely used.

115 Grain FMJ Is Cost-Effective and Widely Available

Ammunition prices fluctuate, but 115 grain FMJ consistently remains one of the most affordable 9mm options. Manufacturers produce it in high volumes because it’s a standard round for civilian shooters, military training, and law enforcement practice. That high production keeps costs down and availability up.

For those who shoot often, Turan 9mm bulk handgun ammo 115 grain FMJ is an example of an option that balances cost and performance, making it easy to stock up for range sessions. Buying in bulk saves money in the long run and ensures you always have enough on hand for training.

Reliable Feeding and Smooth Cycling

Handguns, especially semi-automatics, can be picky about ammo. Some rounds cause feeding issues, but FMJ bullets are designed to minimize that risk.

Their smooth metal surface helps them load and eject cleanly. They’re less prone to getting stuck or causing malfunctions in the chamber. Compared to exposed lead bullets, they create less residue buildup, keeping firearms cleaner.

For shooters running drills or putting hundreds of rounds through a pistol in one session, reliability is key. The last thing you want is frequent jams or misfeeds.

Why It’s a Top Choice for Range Shooting

Not all ammo is created equal when it comes to training. If you’re heading to the range, you want something that’s affordable, accurate, and comfortable to shoot. That’s where 115 grain FMJ shines.

• Lower Recoil – The lighter bullet weight means less felt recoil, making follow-up shots easier and improving control.
• Consistent Accuracy – It flies with a relatively flat trajectory at standard shooting distances, helping with precision.
• Less Wear on Your Firearm – Unlike lead bullets, which leave more fouling, FMJ rounds are cleaner on barrels.

This combination makes 115 grain FMJ a smart pick for practice, whether you’re working on accuracy, drawing from a holster, or running speed drills.

How It Compares to Other 9mm Bullet Weights

Shooters often debate which bullet weight is best. While 115 grain is the most common for range use, it’s not the only option.

124 Grain FMJ – Slightly heavier, producing more momentum and a bit more recoil. Some shooters prefer it for a closer feel to defensive rounds.

147 Grain FMJ – Even heavier, often subsonic, making it ideal for use with suppressors but producing more felt recoil.

115 grain FMJ stands out because it’s lighter, easier to shoot, and widely available. Heavier bullets have their place, but for most range training, 115 grain is the simplest, most practical choice.

Not the Best for Self-Defense

Despite its advantages, FMJ isn’t ideal for self-defense. The main reason? Over-penetration.

FMJ rounds don’t expand on impact like hollow points. Instead, they pass straight through a target, potentially hitting unintended objects or people. That’s a major concern in a defensive situation.

This is why law enforcement and concealed carriers typically use hollow point rounds. Hollow points expand on impact, creating more stopping power while reducing the risk of hitting bystanders.

That being said, some shooters carry FMJ rounds in areas where hollow points are restricted. In those cases, using FMJ is better than not carrying at all—but whenever possible, defensive ammo should be chosen based on its ability to stop a threat efficiently.

A Practical Choice for Most Shooters

115 grain gets the job done. It’s affordable, reliable, and perfect for training. Whether you’re a beginner learning proper grip and stance or an experienced shooter refining your skills, this round offers consistency without breaking the bank.

For regular range sessions, bulk buys, and smooth shooting performance, it remains one of the best all-around choices for handgun owners.