The lead cores in jacketed hollow point ammunition is coated with a harder metal known as the 'Jacket' or 'Plate'. The bullet's nose, rather than being pointed, is recessed, or hollowed out, hence the term hollow point.
They were designed in an attempt to reduce collateral damage, as their penetration is impaired by the function of the hollow cavity. A jacketed hollow point bullet, also known as JHP, is designed to cause severe damage by expanding on impact with its target, while minimizing the distance it penetrates.
