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Now that you’ve bought your AR-15 - which probably cost you a pretty penny - you don’t want to put any old ammunition in it.
Make sure you buy the best ammo for your particular AR-15 to ensure you have smooth, accurate shots.
If you aren’t sure where to start, we have the ultimate guide that will help you find the best AR-15 ammo for your firearm.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best AR-15 Ammos
- OUR TOP PICK: Federal XM193BK420AC1 American Eagle Training 5.56 NATO
- RUNNER-UP: PMC X-TAC 5.56mm NATO 55 Grain FMJ
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Winchester USA RIFLE 5.56x45mm NATO
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Ammos
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What Ammo Does an AR-15 Use?
The type of ammo that an AR-15 uses depends on the rifle. Each one is unique and has a specific chamber size.
The most common ammo sizes for an AR-15 are 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington. While they may look very similar in size, they are not always interchangeable.
For example, the 5.56 is slightly larger than the .223, so you cannot use 5.56 ammo in a .223 chamber without risking damage to the firearm. However, you can fire .223 ammo from a 5.56 chamber since it easily fits, but you could risk some accuracy in your shots.
Check what size chamber your AR-15 has and look for the appropriate ammunition that will fit perfectly without damaging the interior.
What Makes a Great AR-15 Ammo?
When you start looking for AR-15 ammo, you’ll find many terminologies that may not make a lot of sense at first. Let’s look at three of the main factors that make for excellent ammunition.
Barrel Twist
The barrel twist of a bullet refers to how many revolutions it makes as it flies through the sky. This spinning helps stabilize the bullet and give you a more accurate shot.
You can find the barrel twist stamped after the caliber, usually as a ratio like 1:9 or 1:12. This ratio means that the bullet twists once every nine or twelve inches.
The barrel twist generally depends on the weight, as the more massive the bullet, the more often it spins. For example, an 80-grain bullet will twist about once every seven inches (1:7), while 40-grain ammo will rotate once every 12 inches (1:12).
Most AR-15 ammo is a 55-grain, so look for a barrel twist of 1:9. However, for heavier ammunition, aim for a twist ratio of 1:8 or 1:7 to ensure the bullet remains stable in its trajectory for maximum velocity.
Bullet Type
There are several different bullet styles on the market. The three main types of bullets are full metal jackets (FMJ), hollowpoints, and soft-points.
FMJ bullets are perfect for plinking and range practice thanks to their robust build. The hollowpoints are best for self-defense weapons, while the soft-points are ideal for hunting.
Case Material
Most AR-15 ammunition has either steel or brass casing, and many shooters have strong opinions over which is better.
The steel casings are cheaper, but they don’t seal well and often cause carbon buildup. Brass casings have a much cleaner run with a tighter seal, but they do cost more.
Winchester USA RIFLE 5.56x45mm NATO
Review of the Best AR-15 Ammo
Now that we’ve looked at the types of AR-15 bullets available, it’s time to find the best ammunition for your firearm. Lucky for you, we’ve already done all the heavy work of finding top-notch products.
Now, it’s just up to you to choose which ammo you would like from the list below!
Best Overall:
Federal XM193BK420AC1 American Eagle Training 5.56 NATO
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Overall, the customers were delighted with the high value for the affordable price. They stated that this ammunition would be excellent for target practice, and it was much cleaner than other popular options.
One of the biggest complaints was about the shipping. Many people received their ammo in a bag instead of safely packed in a box.
Nevertheless, most people were satisfied with the ammo’s quality.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While a lot of ammunition comes in smaller packages, the American Eagle Training ammo comes with a whopping 420 rounds that will keep you equipped for an extended period.
The ammunition also has dependable, non-corrosive primers and reloadable brass cases. This 5.56 NATO 55 grain ammo also has a full metal jacket boat tail that improves accuracy.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for ammo that will let you continue your high-volume shooting, this reloadable American Eagle Training ammunition is a fantastic - and affordable! - option for you.
Runner-up:
PMC X-TAC 5.56mm NATO 55 Grain FMJ
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The buyers were incredibly happy with their PMC ammo, so much so that there is a considerable demand for more ammunition.
People raved about the impressive range, high quality, and superior performance. There were only a few negative comments about the potential dirtiness, but others claimed the opposite.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The high demand for this product says a lot about its quality! The intricate boat tail design makes this ammunition great for everyone, from competitive shooters to long-distance hunters.
The boat tail design, along with an impressive velocity of 3,270 feet per second, makes this an excellent bullet for accurate long-distance shots. Plus, the ammo has over 1,300 feet per pound of energy that will do incredible damage upon impact, taking out that larger prey or the furthest target.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for reliable ammunition for long-distance shots, the PMC ammo is a superior option. It works great for everyone, from marksmen to hunters. Just be prepared for a possible wait since this ammo is in such high demand!
Best for the Money:
Winchester USA RIFLE 5.56x45mm NATO
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Across the board, customers were delighted with the quality for the price. Many people stated that the value was exceptional and that the ammunition performed exceptionally well.
Only a few buyers found a flaw in the Winchester bullets, claiming that there were dud bullets that did not fire correctly. Other people claimed that the ammo casing was dirtier than other products.
Nevertheless, the consensus was that these bullets were of excellent quality for the price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
How can you go wrong with affordable ammunition for shooters of all levels?
Even though the Winchester ammo is one of the cheapest products available, that doesn’t mean it is only for beginners or has subpar quality. Instead, these bullets work for everyone, from beginner shooters and hunters to competitive marksmen.
Winchester states that their bullets have no expansion, reduced barrel fouling, and consistent, accurate performance. The full metal jacket also provides impressive power to your shot.
Bottom Line
Even with a lower budget, you can still get high-quality bullets. Winchester ammunition lets everyone from weekend shooters to competitive marksmen enjoy a powerful, accurate shot.
Best Range Ammo for AR-15:
PMC Bronze .223 Remington 55 Grain FMJ
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This PMC ammunition is a favorite among shooters. They love the quality and efficiency of this ammo for plinking. Too few people could find fault in these bullets, but a couple of customers complained of inconsistent shots.
However, compared to the dozens of satisfied buyers, those rare complaints fall to the background.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The design of bullets lets it travel far and fast, landing with incredible power on the target. Its velocity is 3,200 feet per second, and it impacts with 1,250 feet per pound of muzzle energy.
As an added plus, the boat tail shape gives it an edge in stable and accurate shots. Shooters who want to improve their game on the range or take it up a notch in their shooting competitions will love these bullets.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a powerful bullet with improved accuracy, the PMC bronze ammunition is a great option. Take it to the range or your next competition and see the change.
Best AR-15 Home Defense Ammo:
Hornady Critical Defense Rifle .223 Remington 73 grain Flex Tip
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent customers bought this ammunition specifically for home defense, and they are delighted with the product. Of course, since this is a heavier bullet, the cost increases. Several buyers complained about the steeper price but agreed about the superior bullet quality.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This ammunition has the perfect design for self-defense. The Flex Tip eXpanding (FTX) design lets the bullet expand rapidly, so the bullet doesn’t penetrate too far or clog as it hits clothing.
If you are using your rifle for home defense, you don’t want a bright muzzle flash. Thankfully, this Hornady ammunition has fast-burning propellants that dull the flash.
Another great feature is the nickel-plated cases that make the bullets more visible if you are trying to ready your AR-15 at night.
Bottom Line
This massive, innovative bullet is your go-to option for self-defense. With superior technology, you can expect effective shots, even in the dark.
Best AR-15 Deer Hunting Ammo:
Federal Premium FUSION .223 Remington 62 grain Fusion Soft Point
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The customers had only positive things to say about this ammunition. The buyers expressed their satisfaction with this product by sharing stories about the deer they killed and compliments on the bullets’ efficiency.
Only a few people commented on the high price and that these bullets are not for volume shooting. Other than that, the customers were quite happy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Many types of AR-15 ammo are not ideal for hunting, especially not for deer hunting. However, this Federal Premium FUSION ammunition lets you humanely and efficiently hunt deer.
The 62-grain bullet has some extra weight that gives you deep penetration, so you don’t leave the deer maimed. Plus, the bullet’s nose is skived and pre-programmed to provide you with consistent expansion.
As an added plus, the bullets have a uniform copper jacket that is electro-chemically attached to the core. You can get the speed, accuracy, and efficiency you need while hunting out of these bullets.
Bottom Line
If you want to use your AR-15 for hunting, look no further for bullets. These soft-point bullets, while slightly expensive, give you a perfect kill shot.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Before choosing one of the above options, consider the following points.
Price
Price is a significant factor in any purchase, but it is especially crucial when buying ammunition.
While one round used to be about $0.40, the price has been steadily increasing. The ammo that used to be affordable is now boarding on expensive, and high-quality products are even more costly.
In addition to rising prices, consider the value of the ammo for your money. There are plenty of more affordable options that provide superior ammunition, so make sure not to assume that a low price tag equals inferior quality.
Purpose
Will you be using the ammunition for hunting, self-defense, or plinking? Even though you can use an AR-15 for all of these things, the type of bullet you use makes a huge difference in the efficiency of your shot.
Some bullets, like the hollowpoints, have a specific design for the most efficient self-defense system. Likewise, soft-points and hollowpoints make great humane ammo for hunting. Full metal jackets are best for plinking or competitive shooting since they can maim without killing an animal.
Keep your purpose in mind and choose the most efficient bullet for that activity.
Caliber
While you can use numerous different calibers with your AR-15, the two most common are the .223 Remmington and 5.56 NATO. They may look similar, but they are not identical. Ensure you purchase the correct caliber for your gun’s chamber, so you don’t do any damage to the weapon.
AR-15 Ammo Types
There are numerous types of ammo that you can use with your AR-15. The two most well-known are the .223 Remington and the 5.56 NATO. However, there are plenty of other cartridges available that offer different perks and shooting trajectories.
.223 Remmington
As one of the most common cartridges for the AR-15, it comes in many sizes. You can purchase anywhere from 15 to 75-grain bullets. Depending on the make, you can use the .223 Remmington bullets for self-defense and hunting small or medium game.
5.56 NATO
The 5.56 NATO ammo originally came out as combat ammunition, so it is best for self-defense or plinking. You can use it for hunting larger prey, but it is more accurate on close-range targets.
.300 Ham’r
This type of ammo came out recently in 2018. While you can only get it from one vendor, it is ideal for hunting large and small game.
.450 Bushmaster
The .450 Bushmaster is an interesting cartridge with a rainbow trajectory and powerful force. Most people use this ammo for hunting larger prey like deer and hogs.
Comparison Overview of Ammunition
With dozens of different ammunition types on the market, it’s essential to understand the differences between some of the more popular options.
AK-47 vs AR-15 Ammo
The AK-47 uses 7.62x39 ammo to propel 123-grain bullets, while the AR-15 generally uses 5.56x45 to fire 55-grain bullets. The AK-47 ammunition is much heavier, which causes it to have a slower speed.
While the AR-15 bullets offer a flatter trajectory and higher speed, the AK-47 ammo has increased surface area in the front for more damage.
AK-47 vs AR-15 Ammo Cost
Even though the AK-47 ammo is heavier, it is much cheaper than AR-15 ammunition. Many AK-47 ammo products cost less than $0.30, while the price for AR-15 bullets averages much higher.
AR-15 vs M16 Ammo
Both the AR-15 and M-16 rifles fire 5.56 NATO rounds.
While the M16 initially used 7.62 NATO ammunition, the manufacturers eventually scaled down. The newer M16 models take 5.56 NATO bullets, just like many AR-15s.
Some AR-15s have smaller chambers for .223 ammo, so be careful before swapping the ammo from your M16 to your AR-15.
Conclusion
Which ammo are you going to get for your AR-15? We hope that this buyer’s guide has helped you make an educated decision on what type of bullets to get for your firearm. Continue browsing the available ammunition and choose what will be best for your fun.
People Also Ask
Before you buy hundreds of rounds of ammo, make sure you are getting the right size and build for your AR-15. To help you find the correct ammunition, we have compiled a list of some popular questions we receive.
Check out the answer to ensure you are getting the perfect ammo for your AR-15.
Is Wolf Ammo Bad For AR-15?
No, Wolf ammo is not bad for an AR-15. Many people may think Wolf ammo damages an AR-15 because of the steel casing on the ammunition. While the casing doesn’t hurt the bolts and extractors, it may cause your gun to be dirtier.
The steel on the Wolf ammo doesn’t expand much, leaving carbon residue inside the chamber. This residue doesn’t damage the AR-15, but you should take some more time to clean the weapon.
How Much is AR-15 Ammo?
AR-15 ammo can range from about $0.22 to over $1.5 per round, depending on the material and build. For example, steel-cased bullets will be cheaper than brass-cased ammo. If you are looking for hollowpoint or soft-point ammo, the price will increase.
What is Green Tip AR-15 Ammo?
Green tip ammo is another name for M855 ammunition, which has a full metal jacket with a green tip. They have a unique steel penetrator tip and can travel over 3,000 feet per second.
The purpose of green tip AR-15 ammo is to penetrate targets over long distances. While it cannot break through multiple thick layers, it effectively penetrates clothing, brush, metal, and glass.
How Much Ammo Can You Fit in an AR-15?
The amount of ammo you fit into your AR-15 depends on the size of the magazine.
Some low-capacity magazines only hold 5 or 10 rounds while others can carry up to 60 rounds.
The standard size for an AR-15 magazine holds about 30 rounds of ammunition.
How Many Rounds of Ammo Does an AR-15 Shoot a Second?
Since an AR-15 is only a semi-automatic firearm, it cannot fire many rounds per second. Only competitive shoots can reach up to three shots each second, and the maximum rounds per minute are 45.
Will Steel-Cased Ammo Hurt My AR-15?
No, steel-cased ammo will not hurt your AR-15. Contrary to popular opinion, the steel is not corrosive and will not damage your gun. However, be prepared to use plenty of lubricants to ensure the firearm works well with the steel-cased ammunition. You may have to clean after every 500 to 1,000 rounds as well.
Is AR-15 Ammunition Different From Hunting Ammo?
With innovation over the years, you can now use your AR-15 to go hunting.
While previous .223 and 5.56 ammo were not suitable for hunting big game, they are now plenty of versatile rounds that you can use for hunting with your AR-15.
So, yes, there are some differences in ammunition designed for hunting, but you can get particular ammo to hunt with your AR-15.
Can All AR-15 5.56 Barrels Shoot .223 Ammo?
Yes, AR-15 5.56 barrels can shoot .223 ammo. The 5.56 ammunition is slightly larger than the .223 ammo, so the chamber is a touch bigger. Both .223 and 5.56 ammo can fit in the 5.56 chamber, but you may see some slight inaccuracies when shooting the .223 ammo since they are slightly smaller than the barrel.