6.5 Grendel Vs 5.56 Ballistics Chart
When it comes to choosing a rifle cartridge, there are many factors to consider. Two popular cartridges for hunting and shooting are the 6.5 Grendel and the 5.56 NATO. Both are effective cartridges, but they have some differences in their ballistics.
What is the 6.5 Grendel?
The 6.5 Grendel is a cartridge designed for long-range shooting. It was developed in the early 2000s by Alexander Arms, and it is based on the .220 Russian case. The cartridge has a bullet diameter of 6.5mm and a case length of 39mm. It is a popular choice for hunting and target shooting.
What is the 5.56 NATO?
The 5.56 NATO, also known as the .223 Remington, is a cartridge developed by Remington in the 1960s. It is the standard cartridge used by the US military and is widely used for hunting and target shooting. The cartridge has a bullet diameter of 5.56mm and a case length of 44.7mm.
Ballistics Comparison
When comparing the ballistics of the 6.5 Grendel and the 5.56 NATO, there are several differences to consider.
Velocity
The 6.5 Grendel generally has a higher velocity than the 5.56 NATO. This means that the bullet travels faster and can reach targets at longer distances. The higher velocity also results in a flatter trajectory, which means that the bullet will drop less over distance.
Energy
The 6.5 Grendel also has more energy than the 5.56 NATO. This means that it can deliver more stopping power and is better suited for hunting larger game. The higher energy also results in more penetration, which is important when hunting.
Recoil
The 5.56 NATO has less recoil than the 6.5 Grendel. This means that it is easier to shoot and can be more comfortable for shooters who are sensitive to recoil. However, the recoil of the 6.5 Grendel is still manageable and is not a significant drawback.
Ammo Availability
The 5.56 NATO is more widely available than the 6.5 Grendel. This makes it easier to find and purchase ammunition for the 5.56 NATO. However, the availability of 6.5 Grendel ammunition has improved in recent years, and it is no longer as difficult to find as it once was.
Accuracy
The 6.5 Grendel is generally more accurate than the 5.56 NATO. This is due to the higher velocity and more aerodynamic bullet of the 6.5 Grendel. The increased accuracy of the 6.5 Grendel makes it a popular choice for target shooting and long-range hunting.
Conclusion
Both the 6.5 Grendel and the 5.56 NATO are effective cartridges for hunting and shooting. The choice between the two will depend on the shooter's preferences and the intended use of the rifle. The 6.5 Grendel is better suited for long-range shooting and hunting larger game, while the 5.56 NATO is better suited for shorter distances and smaller game. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to the shooter's needs and preferences.