Home Rifle Ammo .223 Remington

.223 Remington

Average Cost Per Round

$0.56/rd
↑ $0.00 (0.1%) in the last 30D
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Price Trend
0.1%
Yearly Price Points
17,693
Dealers
9
Products
11

.223 Remington Prices

PRODUCT PRICE/RD
$0.41
1000 Rounds
$0.43
1000 Rounds
$0.43
1000 Rounds
$0.75
200 Rounds
$0.78
200 Rounds
$1.30
200 Rounds
$1.43
20 Rounds
$1.61
20 Rounds
$1.90
20 Rounds
$1.95
20 Rounds
$2.00
20 Rounds
Showing 11 Products

.223 Remington Overview

The .223 Remington, introduced commercially in 1962, represents a benchmark in small-caliber rifle cartridge development. Originally designed as a commercial variant of the military 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, it has evolved into a distinct offering that excels in precision shooting, varmint hunting, and competitive applications. The cartridge's inherent accuracy and mild recoil have made it a favorite among civilian shooters seeking optimal performance in both bolt-action and semi-automatic platforms.

While similar to its military counterpart, the .223 Remington operates at slightly lower pressures and features more precise dimensional tolerances. This emphasis on precision has led to its widespread adoption in match-grade rifles and custom hunting platforms. Modern ammunition development has further enhanced its capabilities, offering shooters an extensive selection of loads optimized for specific applications, from prairie dog hunting to precision rifle competitions.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros

  • Exceptional accuracy potential
  • Minimal recoil aids precise shot placement
  • Wide variety of match-grade ammunition
  • Excellent barrel life with quality ammunition
  • Affordable practice ammunition available

Cons

  • Limited for larger game hunting
  • Wind-sensitive at longer ranges
  • Terminal performance depends heavily on bullet selection
  • Maximum effective range limitations

.223 Remington Ballistics

The .223 Remington typically achieves velocities between 2,700-3,300 fps with standard commercial loads, depending on barrel length and bullet weight. Match-grade ammunition often uses heavier bullets for better wind resistance and long-range performance. Use our trajectory calculator to customize ballistic data for whatever load you are using.

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Muzzle Velocity
3200 fps
Projectile Weight
55 gr
Ballistic Coef.
0.243 G1
Muzzle Energy
1250 ft-lbs

Similar Calibers Compared

Caliber Typical Bullet Weight Muzzle Velocity Muzzle Energy Energy at 300 yds
.223 Remington 69gr 3000 fps 1380 ft-lbs 715 ft-lbs
.22-250 Rem 55gr 3650 fps 1630 ft-lbs 825 ft-lbs
6.5 Grendel 123gr 2580 fps 1818 ft-lbs 1150 ft-lbs
.224 Valkyrie 90gr 2700 fps 1457 ft-lbs 890 ft-lbs

What .223 Remington Does Best

Varmint Hunting

In varmint hunting applications, the .223 Remington demonstrates exceptional capabilities. Its flat trajectory and explosive effect on small targets make it ideal for prairie dogs, groundhogs, and coyotes. The minimal recoil allows shooters to spot their own shots and make quick follow-ups when necessary. Match-grade ammunition with premium bullets enables precise shot placement at extended ranges, while more affordable varmint loads work well for high-volume shooting situations.

Precision Target Shooting

The .223 Remington truly shines in precision shooting disciplines. Its inherent accuracy potential, combined with mild recoil and extensive match ammunition options, makes it a top choice for competitive shooters. The cartridge excels in disciplines like F-Class and benchrest shooting, where its consistency and accuracy allow shooters to focus on wind reading and fundamental marksmanship skills rather than managing recoil.

Recreational Shooting

For recreational shooting and practice, the .223 Remington offers an ideal combination of performance and economy. The availability of high-quality yet affordable ammunition makes high-volume practice sessions feasible. Its mild recoil and minimal muzzle blast make it suitable for new shooters while still providing enough feedback for skill development. The cartridge's accuracy potential rewards good technique, making it excellent for developing precision marksmanship skills.

Types of Projectiles

Match Grade

  • High-precision loads optimized for competition and target shooting

>Varmint

  • Light, fast-expanding bullets designed for small game hunting

Target

  • Consistent, affordable loads for practice and casual competition

Premium Hunting

  • Controlled expansion bullets for larger varmints and predators

Common .223 Remington Bullet Weights

52-55 grain

  • Popular for varmint hunting and general target shooting

68-69 grain

  • Match-grade bullets for precision shooting

75-77 grain

  • Heavy match bullets for maximum accuracy and wind resistance