Understanding AR-15 Ammo Size: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to the AR-15, one of the most crucial aspects to understand is the ammunition it uses. The AR-15 ammo size, also known as the .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO, plays a significant role in the performance and effectiveness of the firearm. In this article, we will delve into the details of AR-15 ammo size, its dimensions, types, and the factors that influence its choice.
Dimensions of AR-15 Ammo
The AR-15 ammo size is a rimless, bottlenecked cartridge that measures approximately 0.223 inches in diameter. The overall length of the cartridge is around 1.18 inches, with the bullet itself being approximately 0.223 inches in diameter. The case length is approximately 1.14 inches, and the overall length of the loaded cartridge is around 2.26 inches.
Types of AR-15 Ammo
There are several types of AR-15 ammo available, each designed for specific purposes. Here are some of the most common types:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) | Used for target practice and training, FMJ bullets have a solid copper core and are designed to penetrate the target without expanding. |
| Full Metal Jacketed (FMJ) with Core Wound | Similar to FMJ, but with a core wound that allows for better expansion upon impact. |
| Hollow Point (HP) | HP bullets are designed to expand upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and reducing the likelihood of over-penetration. |
| Soft Point (SP) | SP bullets have a soft core and a hard jacket, allowing for expansion upon impact while maintaining some penetration ability. |
| Armor-Piercing (AP) | AP bullets are designed to penetrate armor and are used in specialized applications. |
Each type of AR-15 ammo has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of ammunition depends on the intended use of the firearm.
Factors Influencing AR-15 Ammo Choice
Several factors influence the choice of AR-15 ammo, including the intended use, the firearm’s chamber, and the shooter’s preferences. Here are some of the key factors to consider:
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Intended Use: The primary purpose of the firearm will determine the type of ammunition to use. For example, FMJ rounds are ideal for target practice and training, while HP rounds are better suited for hunting and self-defense.
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Firearm’s Chamber: It is crucial to ensure that the ammunition matches the chamber size of the firearm. Using the wrong size can lead to malfunctions and damage to the firearm.
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Shooter’s Preferences: Some shooters prefer the accuracy and consistency of certain types of ammunition, while others may prioritize the terminal ballistics of a particular round.
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Cost: The cost of ammunition can vary significantly, and shooters may need to consider their budget when choosing the right rounds.
Common AR-15 Ammo Brands
Several reputable brands produce AR-15 ammunition, each offering a range of options for shooters. Here are some of the most popular brands:
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Black Hills Ammunition: Known for their high-quality FMJ and HP rounds, Black Hills Ammunition is a popular choice for shooters.
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Winchester Ammunition: Winchester has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and accurate ammunition, including FMJ, HP, and SP rounds.
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Remington Ammunition: Remington offers a wide range of AR-15 ammunition, including FMJ, HP, and SP rounds, as well as specialized rounds for hunting and self-defense.
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Browning Ammunition: Browning produces high-quality ammunition for AR-15 firearms, including FMJ, HP, and SP rounds.
When selecting AR-15
