223 Winchester 55 grain Ammo

223 Winchester 55 grain Ammo Overview

The 223 Winchester 55 grain ammunition is a widely-used and versatile cartridge load, well-suited for a variety of applications. Chambered in the popular AR-15/M16 platform as well as many other 223/5.56x45mm rifles, this ammunition features a 55 grain bullet with a soft point (SP) construction.

Ballistically, the 223 Win 55gr SP load achieves muzzle velocities around 3,240 feet per second, generating approximately 1,282 foot-pounds of energy. The 55 grain soft point bullet, combined with this high velocity, gives the cartridge a relatively flat trajectory and respectable long-range performance. Hunters and shooters can expect an effective range of around 300 yards on medium-sized game.

The soft point bullet construction is designed to provide controlled expansion and penetration when used for hunting purposes. This makes the 223 Winchester 55 grain SP load a viable option for taking small- to medium-sized game, such as coyotes, foxes, and smaller deer. The combination of power and accuracy makes it an effective choice for ethical hunting.

In addition to hunting applications, this 223 Win 55gr SP ammunition also finds use in target shooting, plinking, and other recreational shooting disciplines. Its moderate recoil and affordable price point make it a popular choice for practice and training, particularly for newer shooters or those sensitive to felt recoil.

223 Winchester 55 grain Ammo Properties

Bullet Construction and Ballistics
The 55 grain soft point bullet in this 223 Win load features a lead core with a copper alloy jacket. This construction provides a balance of penetration and controlled expansion, making it suitable for hunting medium-sized game.

The bullet’s ballistic coefficient of 0.243 and sectional density of 0.171 contribute to a relatively flat trajectory and good wind resistance downrange. At the muzzle, this load produces velocities around 3,240 fps and 1,282 ft-lbs of energy.

Hunters can expect reliable, ethical kills on game like coyotes, foxes, and smaller deer out to around 300 yards. The 55 grain soft point bullet delivers good penetration while still expanding reliably on impact.

Recoil Characteristics
One of the key benefits of the 223 Winchester 55 grain soft point load is its moderate recoil impulse. The relatively lightweight 55 grain bullet generates less felt recoil compared to heavier 223 Rem loads.

This manageable recoil allows shooters, especially those who are recoil-sensitive, to stay on target and execute accurate follow-up shots. It also reduces shooter fatigue during extended range sessions, making this 223 Win ammunition well-suited for practice, plinking, and recreational use.

The reduced recoil contributes to improved shooter comfort and control, which in turn enhances overall accuracy and performance, especially for newer or smaller-framed shooters.

Applications and Uses
Beyond just hunting, the 223 Winchester 55 grain soft point cartridge has a wide range of applications. It is a popular choice for target shooting, varmint control, and general recreational shooting with the 223/5.56mm platform.

The soft point bullet construction provides a good balance of penetration and expansion, making it a viable option for self-defense use as well, particularly in carbines and rifles.

Additionally, the 55 grain 223 Win SP load is a common and affordable practice and training round. Its mild recoil and accurate performance make it well-suited for honing marksmanship skills without excessive ammunition costs.