.204 Ruger vs .223 Remington
The .204 Ruger vs .223 Remington comparison matches the fastest commercial varmint cartridge against the most popular centerfire rifle round. The .204 Ruger (32gr V-MAX at 4225 fps) shoots remarkably flat with only 31.8 inches of drop at 500 yards, while the .223 Remington (64gr Polymer Tip at 3020 fps) drops 58.5 inches. Energy at 300 yards measures 512 ft-lbs for the .204 Ruger and 620 ft-lbs for the .223. Recoil stays light for both: 3.4 ft-lbs for the .204 Ruger versus 5.2 ft-lbs for the .223. The .204 Ruger excels on prairie dogs and other small varmints at long range. The .223 offers more ammunition variety and works better on larger varmints like coyotes. Performance varies with ammunition selection and barrel twist rate.
Ammunition Parameters
.204 Ruger Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.223 Remington Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.204 Ruger vs .223 Remington Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .204 Ruger and .223 Remington.
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.204 Ruger vs .223 Remington Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .204 Ruger and .223 Remington.
.204 Ruger vs .223 Remington Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .204 Ruger and .223 Remington at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
Notes:
- FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
- Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
.204 Ruger vs .223 Remington Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .204 Ruger and .223 Remington.
.204 Ruger Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.223 Remington Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
.204 Ruger vs .223 Remington Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .204 Ruger and .223 Remington.