What feature distinguishes military ammunition from standard types?

Military ammunition is characterized by a hardened primer cup, which is designed to withstand the harsher conditions and handling that military operations require. A hardened primer cup is more resistant to mechanical deformation and ignition under extreme conditions, ensuring reliability and consistent performance when fired, even in adverse environments. This durability is essential in military applications where the ammunition may be subjected to rough handling, changes in temperature, and other stresses that standard civilian ammunition might not be designed to endure.

The choice of a hardened primer contributes to the overall robustness and safety of military ammunition, allowing it to function reliably in various conditions. This is particularly important for maintaining the operational effectiveness of military forces, where failure of ammunition during critical operations can have significant consequences.