The AR-15 is a dynamic weapon system capable of satisfying various shooting needs. Its modular design allows for configuration as desired, from recreational shooting and 3-gun competitions to self-defense and hunting. One of the most common questions about an AR-15 is which cartridge it should be built for.
With dozens of options on the market, each with its benefits and drawbacks, it can be challenging to determine the best choice. When making this decision, it’s helpful to consider some of the most popular cartridges for the AR-15, such as .223/5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout, 6.5 Grendel, and 7.62x39mm.
Each has its characteristics that must be carefully evaluated to decide which is right for your specific circumstances. A thorough understanding of what each cartridge offers will ensure you make an informed decision in choosing your ideal cartridge for your AR-15 build or purchase.
.223 Remington/5.56 NATO
The .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO cartridges are popular choices for the AR-15 rifle due to their wide range of ammunition choices and manageable recoil, making them excellent for casual shooting and family use. Their accuracy, affordability, and power make them a natural pick for 3-gun competitions requiring high-volume shooting.
As long-range shooting becomes increasingly popularized, cartridges such as the 22 Nosler, 224 Valkyrie, and 6mm ARC may be worth considering due to their superior performance in extreme-distance shooting situations.
.22 LR
The .22 LR is the ideal choice for AR-15s used for recreational shooting and target practice. Its affordability makes it an economical option for high-volume shooting; however, its limited capabilities prevent it from being versatile enough for hunting or self-defense purposes. Added to that, reliability can sometimes be a concern when using the .22 LR in a semi-automatic rifle such as an AR-15 due to its design not being compatible. Nevertheless, those looking to have fun plinking or target shooting will still find great value in the .22 LR cartridge.
AR-15 broken down in dark setting with ammunition
6.5 Grendel and 6.8 SPC
The 6.5 Grendel and 6.8 SPC cartridges were developed as alternatives to the .223 Remington/5.56 NATO cartridges traditionally used in AR-15 rifles due to their superior performance. The 6.5 Grendel is optimized for long-range shooting, while the 6.8 SPC is intended for self-defense and close-quarter engagements.
Although these cartridges offer advantages, they have some drawbacks; the ammunition and components are harder to come by and typically more expensive than those for .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, and a barrel change may be required for compatibility with the AR-15 platform.
.300 BLK
The .300 BLK has earned a loyal following due to its outstanding performance in the AR-15 platform, making it an ideal choice for those looking for even more power from their rifle. Its effective capabilities are particularly well suited for suppressed shooting, allowing it to function with far less sound than other options on the market.
It provides excellent terminal performance at close range, making it one of the best cartridges for hunting. While it is less than optimal for long-range shooting due to its limited range even with supersonic rounds, its capabilities at mid-range and closer make the .300 BLK a popular option with shooters.
.450 Bushmaster and .458 SOCOM
The .450 Bushmaster and .458 SOCOM cartridges offer hunters superior firepower for taking down big game, but they lack the versatility to be used for other purposes, such as target shooting or self-defense. Given the caliber of the ammunition, using them in the AR-15 platform requires a careful swapping of barrels. These two cartridges are highly specialized options that offer immense power, albeit with limited capabilities.
Get Your Own Side Charge AR-15
The AR-15 is renowned for its versatility and flexibility to be chambered in various cartridges suitable to various use cases. If you’re in the market for a distinct rifle that’s reliable and effective, look no further than our Side Charge AR-15 Designs at Critical Objectives. Of course, you can depend on its excellent function and flexibility when it comes to choosing a cartridge for your tasks, but the look of the rifle itself is sure to make other gun owners take notice.
When the look of your firearm is just as important as the power it packs, come to Critical Objectives for the perfect choice. Whether you want an entire AR-15 or just an upper receiver with effective side-charge capability, we ensure that your needs are satisfied. With its quality craftsmanship and exceptional value, you can feel comfortable trusting Critical Objectives with your firearms needs. Contact us today!