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Full Metal Jacket Truncated Cone Bullets

Full Metal Jacket Truncated Cone (FMJ-TC)

Target Competition

Full Metal Jacket Truncated Cone (FMJ-TC) bullets feature a conical profile with a small flat at the tip. This shape combines excellent feeding characteristics with improved terminal performance over round nose designs. The cone guides smoothly into the chamber while the flat tip (meplat) improves energy transfer on impact. FMJ-TC is popular in competition shooting (IPSC/USPSA) where reliable feeding and clean paper holes matter. The design is common in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP training and competition ammunition.

Use Type

Range Training

Match Shooting

Specifications

Core Material: Lead
Jacket Material: Copper
Nose Design: Truncated cone with small flat
Feeding: Excellent in semi-autos
Expansion: None (non-expanding)
Paper Holes: Clean, easy to score
Common Calibers: 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP
Cost: Moderate

Comparison

Type	Profile	Feeding	Paper Holes
FMJ-TC	Truncated cone	Excellent	Clean cut
FMJ-FN	Flat nose	Good	Clean cut
FMJ RN	Round nose	Excellent	Round holes

FAQ

Is FMJ-TC better for competition?

Many competitors prefer it. The truncated cone feeds reliably while cutting cleaner holes than round nose (easier scoring in tight groups). The flat tip also provides slightly better 'feel' when hitting steel targets.

FMJ-TC vs FMJ-FN?

FMJ-TC has a more tapered profile that feeds even more smoothly in semi-autos. FMJ-FN has a larger flat surface. For semi-auto competition, FMJ-TC is often preferred; for lever guns, FMJ-FN is required anyway for magazine safety.