Hornady's Black 62gr FMJ in .223 Remington hits the mark where tactical requirements meet real-world practicality. This load pushes a rock-solid 62-grain pill at 3100 fps, delivering an impressive 1323 ft-lbs of authority downrange. That combination of mass and velocity creates the kind of flat-shooting profile that makes range estimation less critical when split-second decisions matter.

Unlike lighter varmint rounds or heavier match loads, this 62-grain configuration strikes an ideal balance for defensive applications. The FMJ design excels at barrier penetration – think auto glass or interior walls – while maintaining enough mass to stay on target. At typical engagement distances, you'll appreciate how this round bucks the wind without becoming overly dependent on perfect atmospheric conditions.

If you're building up your tactical skill set, this ammunition deserves a spot in your training rotation. The moderate recoil impulse lets you hammer through drills without developing bad habits, while the consistent point of impact builds confidence during transition shots and multiple target engagements. Keep a few boxes on hand for those training sessions where reliability matters more than match-grade price tags. Your rifle will digest it smoothly, and your wallet won't need trauma care.