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  • Post category:Ammunition / Rifle Ammunition
  • Post last modified:April 6, 2024
  • Post published:October 4, 2022

Best 5.56 Ammo

What is 5.56 Ammo?🧐

This ammunition is a standard rifle cartridge extensively used by military forces around the world. It was developed in the late 1950s by the Armalite Corporation and was first used in the M16 rifle. The ammo is renowned for its high velocity, lightweight, and low recoil, making it ideal for semi-automatic and automatic rifles. In civilian use, it is popular for target shooting, home defence, and small game hunting.

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FMJ – Winchester Lake City – 5.56mm – 55 Grain – 1000 Rounds
Introducing a 1000-round pack of premium ammunition featuring full metal jacket bullets, perfect for enhancing your target practice, enjoying leisurely plinking sessions, and effectively tackling varmint hunting. With an impressive muzzle velocity of 3240 feet per second, you can expect unparalleled accuracy and remarkable power behind each and every shot. Seize this excellent chance to replenish your supply of Winchester's renowned ammunition and elevate your shooting experience.
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Important To Know😎

HistoryπŸ•°οΈ

This ammunition traces its roots back to the post-World War II era. The need for a high-velocity, lightweight rifle cartridge for the military led to its development. The Armalite Corporation, a small arms manufacturer, first introduced the 5.56 Ammo in the late 1950s, in response to the NATO requirements for a standardized ammo. The ammunition was first employed in the M16 rifle which became a standard issue for the U.S. military during the Vietnam War.

SpecificationsπŸ“

These NATO rounds are known for their impressive specs. They have a standard weight of 3.95 grams (62 grains) and offer a high velocity ranging from 600 to 920 meters per second (2,000 to 3,020 feet per second) depending upon the type of bullet and barrel length. The bullets are typically copper jacketed, have lead core and have a diameter of .224 inches.

Features🎯

This ammunition is widely recognized and praised for its exceptional performance in both semi-automatic and automatic rifles. With its carefully engineered design, this ammunition showcases minimal recoil, allowing for rapid and precise firing even in intense combat scenarios. Notably, its high velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory, ensuring remarkable accuracy even over extended ranges. The versatility is truly impressive, as it delivers commendable performance not only in home defence, target shooting, and small game hunting but also in various other applications where reliable and accurate ammunition is indispensable.

Watch this video to find more informationπŸ’»

ApplicationsπŸ“

🟑 Military Use

It is extensively adopted by military forces worldwide due to its high velocity, lightweight, and low recoil. The ammunition’s design allows for rapid and precise firing even in intense combat scenarios, making it the preferred choice for modern warfare.

🟑 Home Defence

It is also used in home defence. Its high velocity and exceptional accuracy make it a reliable option for protecting one’s home and family. The minimal recoil ensures that users can fire rapidly and accurately, increasing their chances of mitigating threats.

🟑Target Shooting

Target shooters often favour this ammo because of its accuracy and consistency. The ammunition’s high-velocity results in a flat trajectory, making it an excellent choice for target shooting at varying ranges.

🟑 Small Game Hunting

It is also popular among small game hunters. Its high velocity and lightweight allow for rapid, accurate shots, making it ideal for hunting small, fast-moving animals.

🟑 Law Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies commonly use this ammo in their service rifles due to its reliability and accuracy. It allows officers to respond quickly and effectively in high-pressure situations, ensuring public safety.

🟑 Competitive Shooting

In the realm of competitive shooting, this ammo is a popular choice. Its accuracy, coupled with its manageable recoil, allows competitors to achieve consistent, precise shots, which is crucial in competitive scenarios.

Types🧨

FMJ is the most common type. It features a soft lead core surrounded by a shell of harder metal, usually copper. This design improves the bullet’s durability while preventing lead from accumulating in the barrel. It’s often used for military training, target shooting and plinking.

Soft Point ammo is designed to expand upon impact, increasing its effectiveness for hunting and self-defence. The exposed lead at the tip of the bullet allows for more energy transfer to the target, resulting in a larger wound channel.

Hollow Point ammo features a small hollowed-out area in the tip of the bullet, causing it to expand upon impact, maximizing tissue damage and stopping power. It’s commonly used by law enforcement and for self-defence, but it can also be used for hunting small games due to its terminal performance.

OTM ammo is engineered for precision. These bullets have a small opening at the tip but are not designed to expand like a hollow point. Instead, they are manufactured to exact tolerances to ensure consistent performance, making them a favourite among competitive shooters.

Best 5.56 Ammo Reviews

1# Winchester Lake City – 5.56mm – 62 Grain – 20 Rounds

Winchester Lake City - 5.56mm - 62 Grain - 20 Rounds

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The Winchester Lake City 5.56mm ammunition is perfect for target practice, plinking, or varmint hunting. This ammunition is loaded with a 62-grain full metal jacket bullet and is sure to provide you with the accuracy and performance you expect from Winchester. Whether you are shooting at the range or in the field, you can trust the Winchester Lake City 5.56mm to get the job done.

Pros:
  • Accurate
  • Powerful
  • Low recoil
Cons:
  • Pricier than some other 5.56 ammo

 

2# FMJ – Winchester Lake City – 5.56mm – 62 Grain

FMJ - Winchester Lake City - 5.56mm - 62 Grain

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The FMJ – Winchester Lake City – 5.56mm – 62 Grain is high-quality rifle ammunition that is flawless for target practice and plinking. It is manufactured by Winchester, a trusted name in the firearms industry, and features a full metal jacket bullet that is 62 grains. The muzzle velocity of this ammunition is 1255 ft/s, making it one of the fastest bullets on the market. It is also very accurate, thanks to the manufacturing process that Winchester uses. When you use this ammo, you can be confident that you will hit your target every time.

Pros:
  • High-quality rifle ammunition
  • Flawless for target practice and plinking
  • Features a full metal jacket bullet that is 62 grains
Cons:
  • May not be the best choice for self-defense

 

3# FMJ – Winchester Lake City – 5.56mm – 55 Grain – 1000 Rounds

FMJ - Winchester Lake City - 5.56mm - 55 Grain - 1000 Rounds

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Looking for a high-quality, affordable bulk pack of 5.56mm ammo? Look no further than Winchester’s Lake City M193 Rifle Ammunition. This 1000-round pack offers full metal jacket bullets ideal for target practice, plinking, and varmint hunting. With a muzzle velocity of 3240 feet per second, you’ll enjoy incredible accuracy and power with every shot. Don’t miss this great opportunity to stock up on Winchester’s world-famous ammunition.

Pros:
  • High quality
  • Affordable
  • Great for target practice, plinking, and varmint hunting
  • Incredible accuracy and power
Cons:
  • May not be suitable for all purposes
  • Pricier than some other options

 

4# FMJBT – Aguila – 5.56mm – 62 Grain – 1000 Rounds

FMJBT - Aguila - 5.56mm - 62 Grain - 1000 Rounds

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Aguila’s 5.56mm FMJBT 62-grain ammunition is outstanding for high-volume shooters who demand consistent performance and reliability. This 1000-round case is a great value for those looking to stock up on quality ammo. The full metal jacket boat tail design provides increased accuracy and muzzle velocity, while the 62-grain weight makes this ammo ideal for most applications. Order your Aguila 5.56mm FMJBT 62 grain ammo today and be prepared for whatever the range or the field has in store.

Pros:
  • Trustworthy
  • Increased accuracy and muzzle velocity
  • It’s ideal for most applications
Cons:
  • 62-grain weight may not be ideal for all applications

 

5# G9 Defense – 5.56mm – 54 Grain – 20 Rounds

G9 Defense - 5.565.56mm - 54 Grain - 20 Rounds

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The G9 Defense 5.56mm 54 Grain External Hollow Point Cooper Pistol Ammunition is an exceptional choice for those who want the best possible performance from their firearms. The CNC manufacturing and powder selection ensure that you get great expansion and 18in of penetration with nearly 100% weight retention. The reliability is exceptional, making this a faultless choice for those who demand the best from their ammunition.

Pros:
  • Exceptional barrier penetration
  • Great expansion
  • 100% weight retention
Cons:
  • May not work well in all firearms

 

Reloading πŸ”„

Reloading can provide a host of benefits, ranging from cost savings to the ability to fine-tune loads to maximize accuracy. It’s a process that, while requiring meticulous attention to detail, can yield rewarding results for shooting enthusiasts.

Advantages 🎯

Reloading ammunition allows for customization of loads, enabling shooters to optimize the performance of their firearms. It can offer substantial cost savings over buying factory ammunition, especially for high-volume shooters. By re-using brass, shooters reduce waste, making reloading a more environmentally friendly choice.

Necessary Equipment πŸ”§

A basic reloading kit typically consists of a reloading press, reloading dies for the specific calibre (in this case 5.56), a scale for measuring powder, a powder dispenser, callipers for measuring overall length, a primer tool, and a case trimmer. Other helpful tools include a case cleaner, a case lubricant, and a bullet puller.

Step-by-Step Guide πŸ“’

  1. Case Inspection and Cleaning – Inspect the used brass for any visible defects. Clean the brass using a case tumbler or ultrasonic cleaner to remove any dirt or residues.
  2. Resizing and Decapping – Use your resizing die on the reloading press to reshape the brass back to its original dimensions. This process also removes the spent primer.
  3. Primer Pocket Cleaning and Swaging – Clean the primer pocket to remove any remaining residues. If needed, swage the primer pocket to remove any crimps left from previous primers.
  4. Trimming and Chamfering – Trim the case to the correct length using a case trimmer. Chamfer the case mouth for easier bullet seating.
  5. Priming – Using a priming tool, insert a new primer into the base of the case.
  6. Powder Charging – Measure and dispense the correct amount of gunpowder into the case using a powder measure and scale.
  7. Bullet Seating – Place a new bullet on top of the case and use your seating die to press it into place.
  8. Crimping – If desired, crimp the case mouth around the bullet using a crimping die.

Cleaning 🧽

Cleaning the brass is one of the essential steps in the reloading process. A case tumbler with either walnut shell or corn cob media is a common method of cleaning brass. Ultrasonic cleaners or wet tumbling with stainless steel media are also effective methods that can provide greater cleaning, inside and out, including the primer pockets.

Safety Rules πŸ”’

Safety is paramount when reloading ammunition. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from potential hazards. Make sure to handle gunpowder and primers in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames or sparks. Follow load data from trusted sources, and do not exceed recommended powder charges. Keep detailed records of your loads.

Storage Rules πŸ“¦

Store your reloaded ammunition in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources or moisture. Ammunition should be stored in labelled containers that list the calibre, bullet weight, type of powder, and powder charge. This can prevent confusion and ensure safe and reliable use of your reloads.

We believe this video can be helpful for youπŸ“Ί

FAQ ❓

Which is the Better Long Distance Round - 5.56 mm vs 7.62 mm Ammo ?

Both are popular rifle cartridges, but they have different strengths and weaknesses.

🚩 The 5.56 mm is a smaller, lighter cartridge that produces less recoil, making it easier to control for follow-up shots. It also has a flatter trajectory, making it more accurate at long ranges. However, it has less stopping power than the 7.62 mm, meaning that it may require more shots to take down a target.

🚩 The 7.62 mm is a larger, heavier cartridge that produces more recoil. It also has a more pronounced drop at long ranges, making it less accurate. However, the 7.62 mm has more stopping power, meaning that it may take fewer shots to take down a target.

Ultimately, the best long-distance round for you will depend on your intended use. If you are looking for a cartridge that is easy to control and accurate at long ranges, then the 5.56 mm is a good option. However, if you are looking for a cartridge with more stopping power, then the 7.62 mm is a better choice.

Study this video to find more informationπŸ’»

 

What are the advantages of 5.56 mm ammo?

This cartridge has a number of advantages, including:

  • πŸ”˜ Light recoil: This cartridge is a small, lightweight cartridge that produces less recoil than larger cartridges, such as the 7.62 mm. This makes it easier to control follow-up shots, which is important in self-defence and tactical situations.
  • πŸ”˜ Flatter trajectory: It has a flatter trajectory than larger cartridges, making it more accurate at long ranges. This is important for military and law enforcement applications, where accurate fire is essential.
  • πŸ”˜ Low cost: This ammunition is typically less expensive than larger cartridges, such as the 7.62 mm. This makes it a more affordable option for training and practice.
  • πŸ”˜ Portability: The cartridge is a small, lightweight cartridge that is easy to carry and transport. This makes it a good choice for military and law enforcement applications, where soldiers and officers need to be able to carry a lot of ammunition.
  • πŸ”˜ Versatility: It can be used for a variety of purposes, including self-defence, hunting, and target shooting. This makes it a versatile cartridge that can be used in a variety of situations.
Are 5.56 Bullets More Accurate Than FMJ From An AR-15?

In comparing the accuracy of this ammo it’s important to clarify that 5.56 NATO refers to a specific calibre of ammunition, and FMJ is a type of bullet design, which can be used in many calibres, including 5.56.

The FMJ bullets are designed for durability and prevention of barrel lead accumulation, making them ideal for military training, target shooting, and plinking. However, the accuracy of a bullet depends not just on its design, but also on factors such as the barrel length of the firearm, the shooter’s skill, and environmental conditions.

For the AR-15, which is typically chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the type ofΒ  bullet used can indeed affect accuracy. For instance, FMJ bullets are reliable for general purposes, but open-tip match (OTM) bullets, specifically designed for precision, may provide superior accuracy, particularly at longer ranges. These bullets are manufactured with careful tolerances to ensure consistent performance, a key factor in achieving precise shots.

Please watch this video to learn more informationπŸ“Ί

 

Is .223 ammo or 5.56 ammo Better?

They are very similar cartridges, but there are some key differences. The NATO ammo is a higher-pressure cartridge than the .223 Remington, which means that it can be loaded with more powder and produce a higher muzzle velocity. It is also slightly longer than the .223 Remington, which gives it a slightly longer case capacity.

In general, the 5.56x45mm NATO is considered to be a more powerful cartridge than the .223 Remington. However, the .223 Remington is still a very effective cartridge and is often used for varmint hunting and target shooting.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences:

Feature 223 RemingtonΒ  5.56x45mm NATO
Calibre .224 in (5.7 mm) .224 in (5.7 mm)
Length 2.24 in (55.6 mm) 2.28 in (58.4 mm)
Case capacity 45 gr (2.9 g) 51 gr (3.3 g)
Muzzle velocity 2,925 ft/s (891 m/s) 3,125 ft/s (954 m/s)
Muzzle energy 1,225 ft-lbf (1654 J) 1,390 ft-lbf (1931 J)

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between these ammunition:

  • βœ”οΈ Your rifle:Β Not all rifles are compatible with both cartridges. Make sure to check your rifle’s specifications to see which cartridge it is chambered for.
  • βœ”οΈ Your budget:Β 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition is typically more expensive than .223 Remington ammunition.
  • βœ”οΈ Your personal preferences: Some people prefer the flatter trajectory and longer range of the NATO cartridge, while others prefer the lighter recoil of the .223 Remington cartridge.
How Effective Is 5.56 Green Tip Against Steel?

When evaluating the effectiveness of our ammunition against steel, two popular choices often surface: the Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) and the “Green Tip” M855. The distinction between these two lies in their construction and resulting performance characteristics.

πŸ”° The FMJ is a traditional design, encasing the lead core of the bullet in a hard shell of copper or similar material, but leaving the base of the bullet exposed. This design is versatile and reliable for a wide range of applications, from military use to recreational shooting.

πŸ”° The Green Tip M855, on the other hand, is a type of FMJ ammunition specifically designed with a steel penetrator tip, painted green for identification, and a lead core. The steel penetrator enhances the ammunition’s ability to penetrate targets, and this is particularly evident when it comes to steel.

In a direct comparison, the Green Tip M855 exhibits superior performance against steel targets when compared to standard FMJ rounds. The steel penetrator tip allows the M855 to pierce through steel more effectively than FMJ bullets. However, it’s essential to note that the use of M855 rounds may cause increased wear and tear on steel targets due to their penetrating capabilities.

Therefore, while the 5.56 Green Tip M855 may offer improved performance in penetrating steel, it is crucial to consider target durability and the intended application before choosing between M855 and standard FMJ ammunition.

We can assure you that this video will certainly clarify the differenceπŸ“Ί

Conclusion🀩

In conclusion, the 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition is a versatile and highly efficient rifle cartridge that has proven its worth in various applications. Its impressive velocity, low recoil, and lightweight nature make it a trusted choice for military operations, law enforcement, home defence, and hunting. Whether it’s FMJ, Soft Point, Hollow Point, or OTM, each type offers unique advantages tailored to specific situations. From competitive shooting to target practice, its use is widespread, reflecting its reliability and high performance. It’s clear that this ammo stands as a testament to the blend of engineering and innovation in the realm of ammunition creation

 

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Gail
Gail
7 months ago

Greetings. How available is 5.56 ammo for civilian purchase?

    Natalia
    7 months ago
    Reply to  Gail

    The availability of 5.56 mm ammo for civilian purchase varies depending on the location. In some areas, it may be readily available, while in others, it may be more difficult to find. This is due to a number of factors, including:

    πŸ’‘ Current events: The availability of ammunition can be affected by current events, such as wars or political unrest. In times of high tension, there may be a greater demand for ammunition, which can lead to shortages.
    πŸ’‘ Government regulations: Government regulations can also affect the availability of ammunition. For example, some countries have strict gun control laws that make it difficult to obtain ammunition.
    πŸ’‘ Economic factors: The availability of ammunition can also be affected by economic factors, such as inflation or supply chain disruptions. These factors can make it more expensive or difficult to obtain ammunition.

    🏁 In the United States, the availability of 5.56 mm ammo for civilian purchase is generally good. However, there have been some shortages in recent years, due to a number of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 presidential election.

    If you are looking to purchase 5.56 mm ammo, it is a good idea to shop around and compare prices. You may also want to consider buying in bulk, if possible. It is also important to be aware of the current laws and regulations in your area, as these can change frequently.

      Breddy
      Breddy
      7 months ago

      And I liked the comparison with 223. The distinction in accuracy between 5.56 and .223 is of such marginal nature that approximately 90% of shooters, myself included, possess such proficient marksmanship that they wouldn’t discern any significant variance.

        Michael
        Michael
        7 months ago
        Reply to  Breddy

        A notable distinction exists between 5.56 NATO and .223 Rem ammunition in terms of primer hardness. Military surplus (mil-surp) ammunition typically features harder primers compared to civilian-grade rounds. This difference can lead to potential issues in firearms originally designed for .223 Rem. For instance, when I tested Federal M193 ammunition in my Savage 110 rifle, I encountered several instances of light primer strikes. Interestingly, this occurred exclusively with the mil-surp M193 rounds, as I fired a mix of these and civilian cartridges during that range session. Evidently, the firing pin spring in my Savage 110 proved insufficiently rigid to reliably ignite the harder primers found in mil-surp ammunition.

          Howard
          Howard
          7 months ago

          Interesting! Especially about 7,62 nad 5.56. After utilizing the 7.62 for nearly half of my service and transitioning to the 5.56 for the remaining duration, the prominent distinction between the two lies in their stopping power. I’ve personally witnessed instances where the smaller round was halted by standard webbing.

            Officer
            Officer
            7 months ago
            Reply to  Howard

            And range! Amidst the rugged terrain of Afghanistan, American soldiers armed with M4 rifles encountered a notable challenge: adversaries positioned more than 300 meters away seemed largely impervious to their gunfire. In contrast, the opposing forces, wielding .30-caliber AK-47s and even the formidable Mosin-Nagant battle rifles, could return fire without hindrance. These century-old .30-caliber battle rifles were conceived to deliver lethality at distances up to 2,000 meters. In contrast, the .223 caliber round was tailored for far humbler purposes, akin to being effective against much smaller targets.

              Talizorag
              Talizorag
              7 months ago

              Thank you for the post. One more thing: the primary intent behind the creation of the 5.56 caliber was to enhance the rate of fire within a rifle squad, with any additional advantages being of secondary importance.

                Natalia
                7 months ago
                Reply to  Talizorag

                Thank you for sharing your thoughts πŸ‘

                  Marksman
                  Marksman
                  7 months ago

                  Hello! How to choose the necessary 5.56 round?

                    Natalia
                    7 months ago
                    Reply to  Marksman

                    The best 5.56 round for you will depend on your intended use, budget, and personal preferences. Here are some factors to consider when choosing 5.56 ammunition:

                    βœ… Intended use: Are you using the ammunition for self-defense, hunting, or target shooting? The intended use will determine the type of bullet you need. For example, self-defense ammunition should expand quickly to create a large wound cavity, while hunting ammunition should penetrate deep to reach vital organs.
                    βœ… Budget: Ammunition prices can vary depending on the brand, type of bullet, and grain weight. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so you do not overspend.
                    βœ… Personal preferences: Some people prefer heavier bullets for more stopping power, while others prefer lighter bullets for better accuracy. Ultimately, the best way to choose the best 5.56 round for you is to try out different types and see what works best for you.