What characterizes "hollow-point ammunition"?

Hollow-point ammunition is characterized by its design, which includes a hollowed-out tip that allows the bullet to expand upon impact with a target. This expansion increases the diameter of the bullet as it penetrates, resulting in a larger wound channel and more energy transfer. The primary purpose of this design is to enhance the stopping power of the bullet, making it highly effective for self-defense situations and law enforcement use. The expansion reduces the risk of over-penetration, meaning the bullet is less likely to pass through the target and cause unintended harm beyond it.

The other choices highlight features that do not apply to hollow-point ammunition. For instance, while some bullets may be designed for long-range accuracy, that is not the primary characteristic of hollow points. Additionally, cost-effective options exist in various types of ammunition unrelated to this specific design. Lastly, the environmental impact of ammunition is a separate discussion and not directly related to the function of hollow-point bullets.