dumu

Dumu, also known as a dum-dum bullet, refers to a type of bullet designed to expand upon impact with a target. This expansion, or mushrooming, increases the bullet's diameter, leading to a larger wound channel and potentially greater incapacitation of the target. The term "dum-dum" originates from the Dum Dum Arsenal in India, where these bullets were first developed by the British military in the late 19th century.

The primary intention behind the development of dum-dum bullets was to create a more effective projectile for use against hostile forces, particularly in colonial conflicts. By expanding, the bullet transfers more energy to the target, causing more significant tissue damage. This contrasts with non-expanding bullets, which tend to pass through tissue with less disruption.

The use of expanding bullets like dum-dums is subject to international humanitarian law. The Hague Convention of 1899 specifically prohibited the use of projectiles that expand or flatten inside the human body. While the term "dum-dum" is often used colloquially, it technically refers to this specific type of expanding projectile. Modern firearms and ammunition incorporate various designs that achieve bullet expansion, though they may not be directly referred to as "dum-dums." The development and use of such ammunition remain a complex issue, balancing military effectiveness with humanitarian concerns.