What Is the Caliber of an AR-15? (The Definitive Guide)
The AR-15 is one of the most popular rifles in the United States, and for good reason. It’s a versatile and reliable firearm that can be used for a variety of purposes, from hunting to self-defense. But what is the caliber of an AR-15?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the AR-15’s caliber, and we’ll discuss the different types of ammunition that can be used in this popular rifle. We’ll also talk about the pros and cons of each type of ammunition, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
So, what is the caliber of an AR-15? Keep reading to find out!
| Caliber | Cartridge | Muzzle Velocity |
|---|---|---|
| 5.5645mm NATO | 5.5645mm | 9901,100 m/s |
| .223 Remington | .223 Remington | 9001,000 m/s |
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What Is The Caliber Of An AR-15?
The AR-15 is a versatile rifle that can be chambered in a variety of different calibers. The most common caliber for an AR-15 is 5.56x45mm NATO, but it can also be chambered in .223 Remington, .300 Blackout, 6.5 Creedmoor, and many others. The caliber of an AR-15 is determined by the size of the cartridge it fires. The 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge is a rimless, bottlenecked cartridge that is 5.56mm in diameter and 45mm long. The .223 Remington cartridge is a rimless, bottlenecked cartridge that is 223mm in diameter and 45mm long. The .300 Blackout cartridge is a belted, bottlenecked cartridge that is 300mm in diameter and 110mm long. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge is a rimless, bottlenecked cartridge that is 6.5mm in diameter and 142mm long.
The different calibers of AR-15s offer different advantages and disadvantages. The 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge is a good choice for general-purpose use. It is lightweight, accurate, and has a low recoil. The .223 Remington cartridge is a good choice for varmint hunting and target shooting. It is also a good choice for beginners because it is easy to shoot. The .300 Blackout cartridge is a good choice for hunting deer and other large game. It is also a good choice for self-defense. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge is a good choice for long-range shooting. It is also a good choice for hunting large game.
When choosing a caliber for your AR-15, you should consider your intended use, budget, and personal preferences. If you are not sure what caliber is right for you, talk to a qualified firearms instructor or gun dealer.
How to Choose the Right Caliber for Your AR-15
There are a few factors to consider when choosing a caliber for your AR-15. These factors include:
- Your intended use. What will you be using your AR-15 for? If you plan on using it for self-defense, a lightweight caliber with a low recoil, such as 5.56x45mm NATO or .223 Remington, is a good option. If you plan on using it for hunting, a heavier caliber with more stopping power, such as .300 Blackout or 6.5 Creedmoor, is a better choice.
- Your budget. The cost of ammunition can vary significantly from one caliber to another. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to choose a caliber that is less expensive to shoot.
- Your personal preferences. Some people prefer the recoil of a lighter caliber, while others prefer the power of a heavier caliber. You should choose a caliber that you are comfortable shooting.
Once you have considered these factors, you can narrow down your choices and make a decision about which caliber is right for you.
Common AR-15 Calibers
The following is a list of the most common AR-15 calibers, along with their specifications and uses:
- 5.56x45mm NATO
- Cartridge dimensions: 5.56mm in diameter, 45mm long
- Muzzle velocity: 3,100 feet per second
- Muzzle energy: 1,200 foot-pounds
- Uses: General-purpose, self-defense, hunting
- .223 Remington
- Cartridge dimensions: 223mm in diameter, 45mm long
- Muzzle velocity: 3,200 feet per second
- Muzzle energy: 1,250 foot-pounds
- Uses: Varmint hunting, target shooting, beginner shooting
- .300 Blackout
- Cartridge dimensions: 300mm in diameter, 110mm long
- Muzzle velocity: 2,300 feet per second
- Muzzle energy: 1,300 foot-pounds
- Uses: Hunting deer and other large game, self-defense
- 6.5 Creedmoor
- Cartridge dimensions: 6.5mm in diameter, 142mm long
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the AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle that is chambered in .223 Remington/5.5645mm NATO. It is a popular choice for both civilian and military use, and has been used in a number of mass shootings in the United States. There is some debate over the AR-15’s classification as an assault weapon, and there are calls for stricter gun control laws in the wake of these shootings. However, the AR-15 remains a popular choice for many gun owners, and it is likely to continue to be a controversial weapon for years to come.