10mm Plated Bullets
Hey, this is Bill with Raven Rock Precision. Today we’re going to talk about 9mm JHP bullets—jacketed hollow points. Click to read entire video transcription
When most folks talk about jacketed hollow points, they usually think about self-defense. The opening at the tip of the bullet allows the petals to flower upon impact. When the bullet hits a target, it expands, and that expansion increases damage within the wound cavity.
That said, we actually sell the majority of our jacketed hollow points to people looking for a more accurate bullet. The JHPs we carry are all high-quality and made in the U.S. Right now, I’m holding a Sierra 147-grain Sports Master that we have on sale. We also carry a wide variety of Dead Nuts JHPs and jacketed hollow points from other manufacturers.
One important thing to note about JHP bullets is that the base is fully enclosed in a copper jacket, unlike FMJ bullets which have an exposed lead base. This design reduces lead fouling in the barrel, especially helpful for high-volume shooters. Over time, that cleaner performance can lead to better long-term results.
Jacketed hollow points are versatile. Many customers use them for self-defense. You can load your own carry ammo with our bullets. In fact, Dead Nuts produces bullets specifically designed for defense, and these are used by several ammunition manufacturers across the United States for their defensive loads.
If you’re into competition shooting, JHPs are also a great choice. They’re known for their consistency and precision. Our Dead Nuts JHPs are ideal for developing a reliable, repeatable load that performs well under pressure. And right now, we have them on sale.
So go ahead and check out the jacketed hollow points section on our website. We’re confident you’ll be happy with the selection we offer. Read Less
10mm Plated Bullet FAQ
What is a plated bullet?
A lead core bullet coated with a thin copper plating, designed to reduce leading and improve feeding.
How are plated bullets different from FMJ?
FMJ bullets have a thicker drawn copper jacket; plated bullets use a thinner electroplated copper layer. FMJs handle higher velocities, while plated are more economical.
Can I reload plated bullets?
Yes. Just avoid over-crimping and keep velocities within the manufacturer’s limits.
Are plated bullets good for self-defense?
They’re not recommended. Use bonded or jacketed hollow points for carry.
Do plated bullets foul barrels less than lead?
Yes, the copper plating reduces lead fouling, though not as completely as a full jacket.
What’s the most common 10mm plated bullet weight?
180 gr is the most popular — it offers a good balance of recoil and accuracy and mirrors many factory loads.
The 10mm plated bullet is a practical choice for reloaders and shooters who want cost-effective, reliable rounds for training and high-volume practice. Plated bullets are built with a lead core and a thin layer of copper applied through electroplating. This plating reduces barrel fouling compared to plain cast lead and makes the bullet easier to handle and load.
For most shooters, plated bullets fill the gap between inexpensive cast lead and higher-priced jacketed bullets. They aren’t designed to expand like hollow points, but they’re excellent for range use, competition, and economical training.
Why Choose 10mm Plated Bullets?
- Cost Savings– Typically less expensive than full metal jacket (FMJ) or jacketed hollow point (JHP) bullets.
- Cleaner than Lead– Copper plating reduces leading in the barrel.
- Reliable Feeding– The plated surface improves function in semi-auto pistols.
- Range-Friendly– Many indoor ranges prefer plated bullets over bare lead because they reduce airborne lead exposure.
Popular Grain Weights for 10mm Plated Bullets
Plated bullets are available in the same common weights as other 10mm projectiles:
| Grain Weight | Typical Velocity Range | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| 155 gr | ~1,200–1,300 fps | Lighter recoil, flatter trajectory practice loads |
| 165 gr | ~1,200–1,250 fps | Balanced training load |
| 180 gr | ~1,100–1,200 fps | Most common; matches recoil of many factory defense loads |
| 200 gr | ~1,000–1,100 fps | Heavier feel; good for simulating hunting/defense recoil |
(Exact velocities vary by powder, barrel length, and seating depth — always follow published load data.)
10mm Plated Bullets for Reloaders
Plated bullets are straightforward to reload but do have a few special considerations:
- Brass: Any quality 10mm brass (Starline, Nosleter, JAG) works well.
- Primers: Use standard large pistol primers unless load data specifies otherwise.
- Powders: Medium to slower-burning powders (e.g., Blue Dot, Accurate No. 9, Power Pistol) are commonly used for 10mm.
- Seating & Crimping: Use a light taper crimp. Over-crimping can cut into the plating and affect accuracy.
Tip: Plated bullets generally aren’t designed for extremely high velocities. Stay within the manufacturer’s recommended velocity limits (often under ~1,250 fps for standard plated bullets) to avoid plating separation.
Training & Range Applications
Most shooters turn to 10mm plated bullets for:
- Affordable bulk practice at the range.
- Indoor range compliance where lead exposure is restricted.
- Competition training, since they mimic FMJ recoil at lower cost.
They’re not intended as hunting or primary defensive bullets, but they’re outstanding for keeping skills sharp without burning through premium ammo.
Hunting & Defense Considerations
- Hunting: Plated bullets are not recommended for hunting game animals. Expansion is minimal, and penetration may be unpredictable. Use bonded JHP or hard-cast bullets for ethical hunting.
- Self-Defense: Plated bullets can be fired defensively in a pinch, but they don’t offer the terminal performance of a true JHP. For carry, stick with ammunition designed for expansion and weight retention.
Buying 10mm Plated Bullets
At Raven Rocks Precision, we stock:
- 10mm plated bullets for reloaders in popular grain weights.
- A full range of reloading components including brass, primers, and powders to build reliable range loads.
- Restock notifications so you can grab plated bullets as soon as they’re available.
Plated bullets are about practicality. If you’re running drills, shooting steel, or just getting in high-volume range time, they’re one of the most economical choices you can make. Save your jacketed hollow points for carry or hunting, and let plated bullets handle the heavy lifting at the range.
Bill Bogner
Co-Founder, Raven Rocks Precision
Bill Bogner is the co-founder of Raven Rocks Precision and a recognized expert in reloading supplies and ammunition performance. With a hands-on approach and years of industry experience, Bill has helped establish Raven Rocks as a trusted source for high-quality projectiles among reloaders, instructors, and competitive shooters. This content was created by Bill, with the assistance of AI to ensure clarity, accuracy, and accessibility.