.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC

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 shed velocity faster in wind, while the 6mm ARC's heavier projectiles buck wind better at distance. Performance varies with ammunition selection and barrel length.

Ammunition Parameters

.22 ARC Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
ELD-M
Bullet Weight:
75 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
3075 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.467
Zero Range:
100 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
1.5 inches

6mm ARC Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
ELD-X
Bullet Weight:
103 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
2800 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.512
Zero Range:
100 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
1.5 inches

.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.

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.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Bullet Penetration

Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .22 ARC and 6mm ARC at self-defense distances.

Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration

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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

.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Recoil

Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .22 ARC and 6mm ARC.

.22 ARC Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
75.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
3075.0 fps
Powder Charge:
26.0 gr
Firearm Weight:
7.0 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
1.6 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
7.36 fps
Recoil Energy:
5.89 ft·lbf

6mm ARC Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
103.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
2800.0 fps
Powder Charge:
28.0 gr
Firearm Weight:
7.0 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
1.9 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
8.74 fps
Recoil Energy:
8.32 ft·lbf
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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.

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.22 ARC vs 6mm ARC Average Cost

Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .22 ARC and 6mm ARC.

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