.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC
Part of our full caliber comparison chart — energy, drop and recoil for every rifle caliber side by side.
The .22 ARC vs 6mm ARC comparison pits two AR-platform cartridges designed for long-range accuracy. The .22 ARC (75gr ELD-M at 3075 fps) retains 755 ft-lbs at 500 yards, while the 6mm ARC (103gr ELD-X at 2800 fps) holds 895 ft-lbs at the same distance. The .22 ARC shoots flatter with 43.4 inches of drop at 500 yards versus 52.6 inches for the 6mm ARC. Recoil favors the .22 ARC at 5.9 ft-lbs compared to the 6mm ARC's 8.3 ft-lbs. The .22 ARC's lighter bullets drift more in wind, while the 6mm ARC's heavier, higher-BC projectiles hold their line better at distance. Performance varies with ammunition selection and barrel length.
Ammunition Parameters
.22 ARC Parameters (Reference Load)
6mm ARC Parameters (Reference Load)
.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .22 ARC and 6mm ARC.
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.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .22 ARC and 6mm ARC.
.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .22 ARC and 6mm ARC.
.22 ARC Recoil (Reference Load)
6mm ARC Recoil (Reference 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
.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .22 ARC and 6mm ARC.
.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .22 ARC and 6mm ARC.