.223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington
Examining the .223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington reveals a substantial performance gap between these rifle cartridges designed for different hunting applications. The .25-06 Remington (117gr Extreme Point at 3100 fps) delivers dramatically higher energy, maintaining 2325 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .223 Remington's (64gr Extreme Point at 3020 fps) 1155 ft-lbs. Both cartridges demonstrate deep penetration characteristics suited for hunting, with the .25-06 reaching 47.7-48.1 inches and the .223 Remington achieving 27.0-27.4 inches, both well beyond defensive requirements. The recoil differential is dramatic, with the .25-06 generating over four times the recoil energy (21.16 ft-lbs vs 5.19 ft-lbs). Despite similar muzzle velocities, the .25-06's significantly heavier bullet provides nearly double the energy retention, making it suitable for larger game where the .223 would be marginal. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical hunting loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.223 Remington Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.25-06 Remington Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .223 Remington and .25-06 Remington.
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.223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .223 Remington and .25-06 Remington.
.223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .223 Remington and .25-06 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
.223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .223 Remington and .25-06 Remington.
.223 Remington Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.25-06 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
.223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .223 Remington and .25-06 Remington.
.223 Remington vs .25-06 Remington Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .223 Remington and .25-06 Remington.