5.56 Ammo for Sale | 5.56x45 NATO Up to 47% Off

Is 5.56 Ammo the Same as .223 Ammo?

5.56x45mm NATO and .223 Remington share several similarities, but there are key differences between them that make each its own distinct cartridge. You should read our in-depth 223 vs. 556 Ammo Guide for a complete breakdown of the differences. To summarize, 5.56 rounds have a higher chamber pressure than .223 cartridges. This allows 556 ammo to maintain its terminal velocity at extended ranges, providing increased long-range accuracy over 223 rounds in most cases. As stated earlier, you should never fire 5.56 rounds with .223 firearms, but you can shoot .223 rounds out of a firearm chambered in 5.56.

Is 556 a Good Defense Round?

5.56mm ammo can definitely deliver enough power to stop threats in their tracks, so from that perspective, yes, 5.56 ammo is an excellent self-defense round. However, the high velocity also increases the risk of overpenetration. Therefore, you must consider your living situation and proximity to others to determine if it’s the best home defense round for you. Ensuring you’re properly trained and using hollow points or other bullets geared towards home defense will greatly reduce the risk of overpenetration.

What Is a 5.56 Round Good For?

5.56x45 ammo was developed for military use, so it is good for defense as long as you consider and mitigate the risk of overpenetration. Its long-range accuracy makes it ideal for target practice and competitive shooting. 5.56 ammo is generally not recommended for deer unless you’re an expert marksman, but it is commonly used for predator and varmint hunting.

Buy 5.56 Ammo Online at OpticsPlanet

Shop online with us to save big on 5.56 ammunition from your favorite brands. We carry bulk 556 ammo and rounds designed for specific purposes like varmint hunting, target shooting, and self-defense so that you can get the exact firepower you need at an affordable price. Check out all our Ammo Guides to learn more about ammunition and how to select the best round for your needs. With tons of daily deals, OpticsPlanet is your go-to online destination for high-quality hunting, tactical, and outdoor gear. Stock up on 556 ammo today and save big on premium rounds for your rifle!