Many different bullet sizes are available on the firearms market for all different types of guns and versions. Some bullets vary in size because of manufacturer differences, such as Smith & Wesson, Colt and Winchester. Bullet sizes in general are determined by the diameter of the firearm barrel and the subsequent available space for the bullet to fit into. Some bullets are smaller in size and
. meant for handguns and other smaller firearms. Other large varieties of bullets are designed for use in larger firearms like rifles and shotguns. Different bullets are sometimes listed as ".22 caliber" but actually have different sizes - this is not an error, because some measurement metrics vary between different types of guns. Different design practices between manufacturers may also contribute to variances between types of bullets. These practices are illustrated in charts such as the following - http://bullet.my3gb.com/images/1-bullet-sizes.jpg - with varying levels of detail. Some bullets are designed with different types of tips, which also effect their overall size. Other bullet types are longer and thinner, designed for more grooved barrels. Manufacturer-specific bullets feature elements that may make the bullets incompatible with similar caliber firearms of other manufacturers. Making sure what type of bullet a firearm is best suited for is advised before making a purchase decision on all types of firearms. A unique property of some bullets is the full metal jacket, most often found in bullets meant for heavier rifles like assault rifles, though some handgun full metal jacket bullets exist. A more detailed chart (like the one here - http://media.photobucket.com/image/recent/horshue/02/CartridgeComparison.jpg) illustrates some of the more subtle differences between bullet types. A higher number, such as .5 versus .357, sometimes means a larger overall bullet but not always. Tip sizes on bullets may also vary between styles, including some styles with extremely large tips that skew the overall measurements. More Reference Links: http://homestudy.ihea.com/ammo/07sizes.htm http://www.wildernessunlimited.com/ed-migale/size-matters-selecting-bullet-weights-shot-sizes-for-success.html
