How Big is a 223 Bullet?
When it comes to firearms and ammunition, understanding the size and dimensions of a particular caliber is crucial for effective use and accuracy. One of the most popular calibers in the world is the 223 Remington, also known as the 5.56x45mm. But just how big is a 223 bullet?
Physical Characteristics
The 223 Remington is a rimless, bottlenecked cartridge with a bullet diameter of 0.224 inches (5.69 mm). The cartridge overall length is 1.76 inches (44.72 mm), with a shoulder diameter of 0.473 inches (12.01 mm) and a rim diameter of 0.422 inches (10.72 mm). The casing is made of brass, and the bullet is typically made of lead, copper, or a combination of both.
Bullet Grain Weights
One of the most significant factors in determining the performance of a 223 bullet is its grain weight. Grain weight refers to the weight of the bullet in grains, with 1 grain being equivalent to 0.0648 grams. The 223 Remington is available in a wide range of grain weights, from 40 grains to 77 grains. Here is a breakdown of the most common grain weights:
- 40-50 grains: Varmint and target loads, designed for high velocity and flat trajectories.
- 55-60 grains: Standard hunting loads, offering a balance between accuracy and penetration.
- 70-77 grains: Heavy hunting loads, designed for larger game and longer range shots.
Bullet Length
The length of the bullet is another important factor to consider. The 223 Remington bullet is typically 0.72 inches (18.29 mm) long, which is relatively short compared to other calibers. This allows for a larger powder charge and a faster muzzle velocity.
Casing Capacity
The casing capacity of the 223 Remington is 31.5 grains (2.03 cm³) of water, which is relatively small compared to other calibers. This is due to the rimless, bottlenecked design of the cartridge.
Comparison to Other Calibers
To put the size of the 223 Remington into perspective, here is a comparison to other popular calibers:
| Caliber | Bullet Diameter | Case Length | Muzzle Velocity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 223 Remington | 0.224 inches | 1.76 inches | 3,000-3,500 ft/s |
| 9mm Luger | 0.355 inches | 0.92 inches | 1,200-1,400 ft/s |
| .308 Winchester | 0.308 inches | 2.80 inches | 2,500-2,800 ft/s |
| 5.56x45mm (M193) | 0.224 inches | 1.58 inches | 3,000-3,500 ft/s |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 223 Remington is a versatile caliber with a wide range of applications, from varmint hunting to long-range shooting. Understanding the physical characteristics, bullet grain weights, and casing capacity of this caliber is essential for optimal performance and accuracy. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a new shooter, the 223 Remington is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate caliber.
Key Takeaways:
- The 223 Remington has a bullet diameter of 0.224 inches (5.69 mm) and a casing length of 1.76 inches (44.72 mm).
- The most common grain weights for the 223 Remington are 40-50 grains, 55-60 grains, and 70-77 grains.
- The casing capacity of the 223 Remington is 31.5 grains (2.03 cm³) of water.
- The 223 Remington has a muzzle velocity of 3,000-3,500 ft/s, making it an excellent choice for long-range shooting and varmint hunting.
References:
- Hornady Manufacturing Co. (n.d.). 223 Remington. Retrieved from https://www.hornady.com/handgun/223-remington
- Federal Premium Ammunition (n.d.). 223 Remington. Retrieved from https://www.federalpremium.com/products/223-remington
- Sierra Bullets (n.d.). 223 Remington. Retrieved from https://www.sierrabullets.com/223-remington
