5.56x45mm NATO Trajectory Calculator

The 5.56x45mm NATO with a 62-grain bullet at 3,165 fps produces a flat trajectory well-suited for intermediate range shooting. Zeroed at 100 yards, the bullet drops just 2.9 inches at 200 yards and 11.6 inches at 300 yards. This allows point-of-aim shooting on torso-sized targets to nearly 300 yards without holdover.

Energy retention follows the expected pattern for a lightweight, high-velocity projectile. The round leaves the muzzle with 1,379 ft-lbs, retains 1,085 ft-lbs at 100 yards, and drops to 649 ft-lbs at 300 yards. By 500 yards, velocity falls to 1,629 fps with 365 ft-lbs remaining. The light bullet sheds energy faster than heavier calibers, making shot placement more critical beyond 300 yards.

Wind drift becomes a factor at extended ranges due to the bullet's low sectional density. At 300 yards with a 10 mph crosswind, expect approximately 10-12 inches of drift. Shooters pushing this cartridge past 400 yards need solid wind-reading skills and should account for 27.7 inches of drop at 400 yards and 53.6 inches at 500 yards.