5.56 Vs 7.62 X51 Ballistics Chart
Introduction
The 5.56mm and 7.62x51mm are two of the most popular rifle cartridges used in the world today. Both are used by military and law enforcement agencies, as well as by sportsmen and hunters. While both cartridges are effective at what they do, there are some differences between them that may make one more suitable than the other depending on the situation.
5.56mm Ballistics
The 5.56mm cartridge was developed in the 1960s as a replacement for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. It is a small caliber, high velocity round that is known for its flat trajectory and low recoil. The 5.56mm round is typically fired from rifles such as the M16 or the AR-15.
At 100 yards, the 5.56mm round typically has a velocity of around 3,000 feet per second and a muzzle energy of around 1,300 foot-pounds. The bullet drops around 2 inches at 100 yards and 8 inches at 200 yards. At 500 yards, the bullet drops around 60 inches.
7.62x51mm Ballistics
The 7.62x51mm cartridge, also known as the .308 Winchester, was developed in the 1950s as a standard NATO cartridge. It is a larger caliber, lower velocity round that is known for its stopping power and long-range accuracy. The 7.62x51mm round is typically fired from rifles such as the M14 or the FN FAL.
At 100 yards, the 7.62x51mm round typically has a velocity of around 2,800 feet per second and a muzzle energy of around 2,600 foot-pounds. The bullet drops around 2 inches at 100 yards and 9 inches at 200 yards. At 500 yards, the bullet drops around 70 inches.
Comparison
When it comes to comparing the 5.56mm and 7.62x51mm cartridges, there are a few key differences to consider. The 5.56mm round is smaller, lighter, and faster than the 7.62x51mm round. It has a flatter trajectory and less recoil, making it easier to shoot accurately at longer ranges. However, it is also less powerful and has a shorter effective range than the 7.62x51mm round.
The 7.62x51mm round, on the other hand, is larger, heavier, and slower than the 5.56mm round. It has a more pronounced trajectory and more recoil, making it more difficult to shoot accurately at longer ranges. However, it is also more powerful and has a longer effective range than the 5.56mm round.
Uses
The 5.56mm round is commonly used by military and law enforcement agencies for its light weight and low recoil. It is also popular among sportsmen and hunters for its accuracy and flat trajectory. The 7.62x51mm round is used primarily by military and law enforcement agencies for its stopping power and long-range accuracy.
Conclusion
Both the 5.56mm and 7.62x51mm cartridges have their strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the right cartridge depends on the situation and the user's preferences. The 5.56mm round is a good choice for those who value accuracy and low recoil, while the 7.62x51mm round is a good choice for those who value stopping power and long-range accuracy.