Luoti

Luoti, meaning bullet in Finnish, is the projectile fired from a firearm. In firearms terminology, a luoti is the component designed to leave the barrel and strike a target; it is seated in a cartridge along with a propellant and primer. Modern luoti constructions usually consist of a lead core encased in a harder jacket, typically copper or a copper alloy, though lead-free alternatives exist for environmental or regulatory reasons. Bullet designs include full metal jacket (FMJ), jacketed hollow point (JHP), soft-point (SP), wadcutter, and semi-wadcutter. The shape, weight, and diameter influence ballistic performance, described by metrics such as muzzle velocity, energy, and the ballistic coefficient.

Bullet weights are measured in grains and diameters in calibers. A heavier, higher-BC bullet can retain velocity better, but may require more propellant. Expanding bullets like hollow-points are designed to increase terminal energy and reduce over-penetration, whereas FMJ bullets tend to penetrate with less deformation.

Historically, bullets evolved from spherical lead balls used in smoothbore weapons to rifled, aerodynamic designs that improve accuracy. Modern production combines casting or swaging with jacket assembly, and sometimes polymer tips or other features to optimize performance.

Regulation and availability vary by jurisdiction. Some areas restrict certain bullet types (for example, expanding bullets) or the sale of ammunition, while others have broader allowances. Safety, proper storage, and compliance with local laws are essential.