A Guide to AR-15 Ammo Types and Their Uses

The AR-15 rifle is a favorite among shooters for its versatility and performance. Whether you’re new to the AR-15 or an experienced enthusiast, selecting the right ammunition is essential for getting the most out of your rifle.

At Tactical Surplus USA, we offer a wide selection of AR-15 ammo to meet your needs. This guide covers the main AR-15 ammo types, their uses, and tips for choosing the best options for target shooting, hunting, or home defense.

.223 Remington vs. 5.56x45mm NATO: Key Differences

The most popular calibers for AR-15 rifles are .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO. While they look similar, they differ in pressure and chamber specifications. The 5.56 NATO ammo is loaded to higher pressures for greater power. Rifles chambered for 5.56 can safely fire both 5.56 and .223 rounds, but a .223-chambered rifle should only use .223 Remington ammo to avoid safety issues. Explore our bulk 5.56 ammo for cost-effective range sessions or shop .223 ammo for precision shooting.

Other AR-15 Caliber Options

The AR-15’s modular design allows you to switch calibers by changing the upper receiver, barrel, or bolt carrier group. Here are some popular choices available at Tactical Surplus USA:

• .300 Blackout: Great for suppressed rifles and short barrels, this caliber excels in close-range scenarios. Check out our .300 Blackout ammo for reliable performance.

• 6.5 Grendel: Known for long-range accuracy, it’s a top pick for hunters and precision shooters. Browse our 6.5 Grendel ammo for your next outing.

• .450 Bushmaster: A powerful choice for big game hunting with strong stopping power. Shop .450 Bushmaster ammo for your AR-15.

• 7.62x39mm: The AK-47’s caliber, adapted for AR-15s, offers affordability and power. Find 7.62x39mm ammo for a budget-friendly option.

Choosing the Right AR-15 Ammo for Your Purpose

Your choice of ammo depends on how you plan to use your AR-15. Here’s a breakdown for common scenarios:

Target Shooting

For range practice or competitive shooting, .223 Remington ammo is affordable and widely available, with light recoil for quick follow-up shots. Pair it with Tannerite exploding targets for a fun and engaging range experience. Our bulk 5.56 ammo is ideal for high-volume shooting sessions.

Hunting

When hunting, caliber selection is critical. For small to medium game, .300 Blackout and 6.5 Grendel offer excellent accuracy and stopping power. For larger game like deer or hogs, .450 Bushmaster ammo ensures a clean, effective shot. Visit our hunting ammo collection for more options.

Home Defense

For home defense, you need ammo that stops threats effectively while minimizing over-penetration. .300 Blackout ammo, especially subsonic rounds, is a great choice for its stopping power and reduced wall penetration. Many shooters also opt for 5.56 NATO ammo for its versatility and affordability. Explore our home defense ammo page to find the right fit.

Understanding AR-15 Bullet Types

The construction of a bullet affects its performance. Here’s a look at the main types we carry at Tactical Surplus USA:

• Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Cost-effective and durable, FMJ rounds like our 5.56 NATO FMJ are perfect for target shooting due to lower costs and less barrel wear. They’re less ideal for hunting or defense due to over-penetration.

• Hollow Point (HP): These expand on impact, creating larger wound channels, making them great for hunting and self-defense. Shop hollow point ammo for reliable stopping power.

• Soft Point (SP): With an exposed lead tip, soft point bullets balance penetration and expansion, ideal for hunting. Check out our soft point ammo for versatile performance.

Why Ammo Compatibility Matters

Using the correct ammo is crucial for safety and performance. Always check your rifle’s chamber markings and manufacturer guidelines to confirm compatibility. For instance, firing 5.56 in a .223-only rifle can cause issues. At Tactical Surplus USA, our product pages for 5.56 ammo and .223 ammo provide clear compatibility details to help you choose wisely.

Conclusion

Selecting the right AR-15 ammo enhances your shooting experience, whether you’re enjoying Tannerite exploding targets at the range, hunting, or preparing for home defense. At Tactical Surplus USA, we offer a broad range of AR-15 ammunition, including 5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout, and more, with fast shipping and competitive prices. Visit our ammo collection to find".. find the perfect rounds for your AR-15 today!