The Most Popular Caliber for an AR-15, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the caliber you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 06:32
In the world of firearms, particularly among enthusiasts and professionals who use AR-15s, choosing the right caliber can significantly impact performance, accuracy, and purpose. Whether for sport shooting, hunting, or defense, each caliber offers distinct advantages and trade-offs. Understanding the preferences and experiences of a broad community can guide newcomers and seasoned shooters alike in making informed decisions.
This dynamic list reflects the collective wisdom and preferences of users who vote on their favored AR-15 calibers. By participating, users contribute to a clearer picture of which calibers rise to meet the diverse needs of the shooting community. Insights drawn from this ranking can help steer both personal choices and broader discussions within the community.
What Is the Most Popular Caliber for an AR-15?
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157votesThis is the most popular caliber for an AR-15 because it is the standard caliber used by the US military and is widely available. It is also relatively inexpensive and has low recoil.The 5.56x45mm NATO is a widely used intermediate cartridge for the AR-15 and other military-style rifles. It is known for its versatility and light recoil, making it suitable for both close-quarters combat and medium-range engagements.
- Cartridge Type: Rimless, bottleneck
- Bullet Diameter: 5.70mm
- Case Length: 44.70mm
- Overall Length: 57mm
- Maximum Pressure: 62,366 psi
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214votes
The38superdude · CC BY-SA 3.0.223 Remington
Remington Arms CompanyThis is a very similar caliber to the 5.56x45mm NATO and can be used interchangeably. It is also widely available and has low recoil.The .223 Remington is a popular caliber for AR-15 rifles. It is a small-caliber, high-velocity rifle cartridge primarily used for varmint hunting, target shooting, and self-defense.- Bullet diameter: .224 inches (5.56 mm)
- Case length: 1.76 inches (44.70 mm)
- Overall length: 2.26 inches (57.40 mm)
- Rifling twist rate: 1:7 or 1:8
- Maximum pressure: 55,000 psi (379 MPa)
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325votesThis caliber is becoming increasingly popular for AR-15s because it allows for easy conversion from a 5.56x45mm NATO chambered rifle. It is also effective for hunting and has a low recoil.The .300 AAC Blackout, also known as the 7.62×35mm, is a rifle cartridge designed for the AR-15 platform. It was developed by Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC) in collaboration with Remington Defense. The aim was to create a cartridge that offers similar ballistics to the 7.62×39mm cartridge used in the AK-47 platform, while still being compatible with standard AR-15 magazines and components.
- Bullet diameter: .308 in (7.82 mm)
- Case length: 1.368 in (34.8 mm)
- Overall length: 2.26 in (57 mm)
- Rifling twist: 1:7 to 1:10
- Parent case: 5.56×45mm NATO
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428votes
6.5 Grendel
Bill AlexanderThis caliber is gaining popularity for its long-range accuracy and ability to take down large game. It has a longer case than the 5.56x45mm NATO and therefore requires a different bolt and magazine.The 6.5 Grendel is a popular caliber for the AR-15 platform known for its long-range capabilities and superior ballistic performance. It was developed by Bill Alexander of Alexander Arms in 2004, specifically to offer an intermediate cartridge with increased long-range accuracy and energy compared to the standard 5.56mm NATO round.- Magazine Compatibility: Can use standard AR-15 magazines with proper modifications
- Terminal Ballistic Performance: Retains higher velocity and energy at longer ranges compared to 5.56mm NATO
- Bullet Diameter: 6.5mm
- Case Length: 39.7mm
- Overall Length: 57mm
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512votes
Hellbus · CC BY-SA 4.0This caliber was designed for increased stopping power and is effective for hunting and tactical applications. It requires a different bolt and magazine than the 5.56x45mm NATO.The 6.8 SPC (Special Purpose Cartridge) is a rifle cartridge designed for the AR-15 platform. It was developed to offer better performance than the standard 5.56mm NATO round in terms of range, accuracy, and stopping power.- Caliber: 6.8mm
- Bullet Diameter: 0.277 in (7.04mm)
- Case Length: 43.18mm (1.7 in)
- Overall Length: 57.4mm (2.26 in)
- Muzzle Velocity: Varies depending on load, typically around 2,700-2,800 fps
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613votesThis caliber is designed for close-quarters combat and has the ability to take down large game. It requires a different bolt and magazine than the 5.56x45mm NATO.The .458 SOCOM is a powerful large-caliber round specifically designed for the AR-15 platform. It was developed by Marty ter Weeme and Tony Rumore of Teppo Jutsu, LLC in 2000. The primary goal behind its creation was to provide a cartridge that could offer significantly more stopping power and terminal effectiveness than the standard 5.56mm NATO round while still being compatible with the AR-15 platform.
- Bullet Diameter: .458 inches
- Case Length: 1.575 inches
- Rim Diameter: .473 inches
- Maximum Pressure: 35,000 psi
- Bullet Weight: 250-600 grains
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712votes
.50 Beowulf
Alexander ArmsThis caliber is designed for hunting and tactical applications and has the ability to take down large game. It requires a different bolt and magazine than the 5.56x45mm NATO.The .50 Beowulf is a powerful and versatile cartridge designed for the AR-15 platform. It was developed to offer increased stopping power and the ability to take down large game at close to medium range.- Year Introduced: 2001
- Bullet Diameter: .500 inch
- Case Length: 1.65 inches
- Case Type: Bottlenecked
- Rim Diameter: 0.565 inch
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813votesThis caliber is commonly used in AK-47s and is becoming popular for AR-15s because it is widely available and has a low cost. It requires a different bolt and magazine than the 5.56x45mm NATO.The 7.62x39mm is a popular intermediate cartridge designed for rifles. It is commonly used in firearms such as the AK-47 and SKS platforms, providing reliable performance and versatility.
- Bullet diameter: 7.92mm
- Case length: 39mm
- Bullet weight: typically 123-125 grains
- Muzzle velocity: around 2,350 feet per second
- Muzzle energy: around 1,500 foot-pounds
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911votes
.224 Valkyrie
Federal Premium AmmunitionThis caliber was designed for long-range accuracy and has a flatter trajectory than the 5.56x45mm NATO. It requires a different bolt and magazine than the 5.56x45mm NATO.The .224 Valkyrie is a popular caliber for the AR-15 platform that offers long-range performance and accuracy. It was designed to maximize the capabilities of the AR-15 platform for precision shooting and competitive shooting.- Bullet Diameter: .224 inches (5.7mm)
- Parent Case: 6.8 SPC
- Case Type: Rimless, bottleneck
- Neck Diameter: .253 inches (6.4mm)
- Shoulder Diameter: .421 inches (10.7mm)
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1010votes
AliveFreeHappy · CC BY-SA 3.0.308 Winchester
Winchester Repeating ArmsThis caliber is commonly used in larger rifles but is becoming popular for AR-15s because it is effective for long-range shooting and hunting. It requires a different bolt and magazine than the 5.56x45mm NATO.The .308 Winchester is a popular big-game cartridge known for its versatility and accuracy. It is used widely for hunting various game species, including deer, elk, and bear. The cartridge delivers a balance of power, flat trajectory, and manageable recoil.- Bullet diameter: .308 inch (7.82 mm)
- Case type: Rimless, bottlenecked
- Parent case: .30-06 Springfield
- Case length: 2.015 inch (51.18 mm)
- Overall length: 2.8 inch (71.12 mm)
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular caliber
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BallisticsBallistic performance of a caliber, including factors like muzzle velocity, trajectory, energy transfer, and penetration, is significant when determining its popularity. Users often prefer calibers that exhibit an optimal balance between accuracy, long-range performance, and stopping power.
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Recoil and manageabilityThe recoil and manageability of a caliber have a direct impact on shooter comfort and accuracy. Popular calibers for the AR-15 usually have low to moderate recoil, allowing users to maintain better control during rapid-fire shooting or extended shooting sessions.
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Versatility and flexibilityA popular caliber for an AR-15 should be versatile and flexible in terms of use cases. Some users may primarily focus on home defense, while others may prioritize hunting or competitive shooting. The best calibers can fulfill multiple roles effectively.
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Compatibility and customizationPopular calibers for the AR-15 tend to have a broad range of aftermarket parts and accessories available, which allows users to customize and optimize their rifles according to personal preferences and requirements.
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Military and law enforcement adoptionCalibers that are used or have been adopted by military or law enforcement organizations often become more popular in the civilian market due to perceived reliability and effectiveness.
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Community preference and recommendationsWord-of-mouth, online forums, and social media communities help shape the popularity of certain calibers by sharing experiences, reviews, and recommendations among AR-15 enthusiasts.
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Legal restrictionsSome jurisdictions have specific caliber restrictions or limitations on magazine capacity, which can impact the popularity of certain calibers in those areas.
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Training and educationThe availability of training resources and educational materials for certain calibers can contribute to their popularity. This includes instructional videos, articles, and courses that cover topics like reloading, ballistics, and marksmanship.
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Personal preferenceUltimately, the popularity of a caliber for an AR-15 can be influenced by personal preferences and experiences. Factors like brand loyalty, nostalgia, and familiarity with a specific caliber can all contribute to its overall popularity among users.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular caliber for an AR-15. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or caliber is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1991 views
- 194 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each caliber once every 24 hours. The rank of each caliber is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular caliber for an ar-15
Background Information:
The AR-15 is a popular semi-automatic rifle that has been in use for over 60 years. Originally designed for military use, it has since become a favorite of gun enthusiasts and hunters alike. One of the key features of this rifle is its ability to be customized with different parts and accessories, including the caliber of the barrel.
The most popular caliber for an AR-15 is the .223 Remington/5.56 NATO. This caliber is known for its accuracy and versatility, making it perfect for both long-range shooting and close-quarter combat. It is also widely available and relatively affordable.
Other popular calibers for the AR-15 include the .300 Blackout and the .308 Winchester. The .300 Blackout is favored for its ability to shoot both supersonic and subsonic rounds, while the .308 Winchester is a popular choice for hunting and long-range shooting.
Ultimately, the choice of caliber for an AR-15 comes down to personal preference and intended use. It is important to do your research and choose a caliber that is appropriate for your needs and skill level.
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