What Caliber is an AR-15?
When it comes to the AR-15, one of the most popular firearms in the United States, the question of its caliber is often asked. The AR-15 is available in various calibers, each with its own unique characteristics and applications. In this article, we will delve into the different calibers available for the AR-15, their pros and cons, and how they compare to one another.
Caliber Options for the AR-15
The AR-15 is available in several calibers, with the most common being .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm NATO, .308 Winchester, and .300 Blackout. Let’s take a closer look at each of these calibers and their specifications.
| Caliber | Cartridge | Typical Bullet Weight | Typical Bullet Velocity |
|---|---|---|---|
| .223 Remington | 5.56x45mm NATO | 55 grains | 3,200 fps |
| 5.56x45mm NATO | 5.56x45mm NATO | 55 grains | 3,200 fps |
| .308 Winchester | .308 Winchester | 150 grains | 2,700 fps |
| .300 Blackout | 7.62x35mm | 125 grains | 2,200 fps |
The .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO are essentially the same cartridge, with the latter being the NATO standard. The .308 Winchester is a larger caliber, offering more power and range. The .300 Blackout is a relatively new cartridge that offers a balance between the .223 and .308 calibers.
Pros and Cons of Each Caliber
.223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO:
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- High magazine capacity
- Excellent for varmint hunting and target shooting
Cons:
- Less powerful than larger calibers
- Not ideal for hunting larger game
.308 Winchester:
Pros:
- More powerful and offers greater stopping power
- Excellent for hunting larger game
- Good for long-range shooting
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier than .223/5.56x45mm NATO
- Lower magazine capacity
.300 Blackout:
Pros:
- Combines the benefits of both .223/5.56x45mm NATO and .308 Winchester
- Excellent for hunting and tactical applications
- Can use a wider variety of ammunition types
Cons:
- Relatively new and not as widely available as other calibers
- May require specialized equipment and accessories
Choosing the Right Caliber for Your AR-15
Selecting the right caliber for your AR-15 depends on your intended use. If you’re looking for a lightweight, versatile firearm for varmint hunting and target shooting, the .223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO is an excellent choice. For hunting larger game and long-range shooting, the .308 Winchester is a better option. If you want a versatile caliber that can handle both hunting and tactical applications, the .300 Blackout is worth considering.
When choosing a caliber, it’s also important to consider the availability of ammunition and the cost. Some calibers may be more expensive or harder to
