It’s past time for firearms deer season here at home. This year, as in previous years, my son and I will head to the deer blind armed with a .308 and .243 respectively. This is notable because it wasn’t long ago that only pistol cartridges were permitted for deer hunting in my state. While carbines or rifles were allowed, they had to be chambered for pistol cartridges. Now, any caliber .243/6mm or larger is permissible. This change opens up opportunities for a wide variety of cartridges.
But, what defines a rifle cartridge? How is one put together? Why is a .243 bullet the same diameter as one fired from a 6mm rifle? Let’s look at some specifics about cartridge construction and naming conventions, then we’ll look at the specific rounds (a “round” is another word for cartridge).
In this Article:
Naming Conventions
Why is a 6mm cartridge called “6mm” while a .243 cartridge is named “.243”? Both types fire bullets of .243 caliber. Cartridges are typically named based on two main conventions: caliber and metric.
American and British cartridges often adopt names based on their bullet diameter, such as .223, .308, and .243. In contrast, European and other countries often use the metric system, like 5.56×45 (NATO), where 5.56mm refers to the bullet diameter and 45mm to the case length.
Despite these trends, there are exceptions: some American-designed 6mm cartridges use metric designations, while others like the .338 Lapua Magnum (developed by the Finnish company Lapua) use a caliber-based designation.
Cartridge names can also have historical or developmental origins. For instance, the .30-06 denotes a .30-caliber bullet from a cartridge developed in 1906. Such anomalies in naming conventions reflect the diverse history and evolution of ammunition.
A modern centerfire cartridge consists of the following components:
A cartridge case
This is the “container”, typically crafted from brass or steel, which houses all the other components of the cartridge. When we mention the “case head,” we’re talking about the bottom part of the case that rests against the breech. This area can feature a rim, which assists with headspace and extraction, or it can be rimless. Before moving forward, it’s important to delve into the concept of headspace. Understanding this concept thoroughly is crucial, particularly if you plan to reload for your rifle.
What is “Headspace?“
“Headspace” refers to the specific part of the cartridge case that prevents its forward movement into the chamber, ensuring it remains firmly positioned against the breech. In the case of a rimmed cartridge, headspacing occurs on its extended rim, while a rimless cartridge headspaces on the shoulder of the case. An exception to this is the belted magnum case, which uses a metal band (belt) at its base for headspacing.
Accurate headspacing is critical because if it’s incorrect, the rifle may struggle to chamber or fire the round properly, potentially leading to safety hazards.
Primer
The second component of a cartridge case is the primer. The primer is composed of three main parts:
- The metallic cup that contains the other two components;
- The priming compound that is the catalyst that ignites the powder;
- An “anvil”, or a hard piece of arched metal that the compound is crushed against in order to ignite the powder.
There are two types of primers: Boxer and Berdan..
The Boxer primer is totally self-contained, with all three components enclosed within its metal cup. When struck by the firing pin, the priming compound inside the cup is crushed against the rounded anvil, generating the spark that ignites the powder. A single central hole in the bottom of the cartridge case allows the primer to channel through. The Boxer primer is widely favored and predominant in usage.
The Berdan primer is different in two ways: Berdan-primed cases have two tangential (to the center of the case) holes for the spark to travel through and the anvil is not contained in the primer cup but is built into the case as a raised “bump” in the center of the case against which the priming compound is crushed.
Bullet
The third component of a cartridge is the bullet. The variety of bullets available in factory ammunition is extensive, making the selection process worthy of its own article. It’s essential to select the appropriate bullet for the intended task. We will delve into bullet weights and styles further when we examine specific cartridges.
Powder
Lastly, the fourth component of a metallic cartridge is the powder. Modern smokeless powders cater to a wide range of specialized tasks. Generally, you’ll opt for a “faster” burn rate powder for non-magnum rounds or those resembling pistol cartridges, and a “slower” powder for magnum rounds or cartridges where maximum velocity is desired. As with bullets, a complete article could be written just about powder.
Now that we understand the construction of a rifle cartridge, let’s examine specific cartridges, roughly in order of their diameter.
A Quick Explanation…
We will look at, among other things, these items:
Rep. Bullet Weight (grains)
Muzzle Velocity (fps)
Muzzle Energy (ft./lbs)
Recoil Energy (ft./lbs.)
Notice that the bullet weight is in grains, the velocity is in feet-per-second and both energy figures are in foot/pounds. If that’s data you are interested in I highly recommend checking out our ammo comparison tool, allowing you to compare more than 300 rounds in 40 different aspects.
Let’s get started…
.22 Long Rifle
Description: Â The .22 LR is the sole rimfire cartridge on our list. It’s a small-caliber round featuring a heeled bullet design, where the base of the bullet is enclosed within the case, with the bore-riding portion of the bullet exposed. This design is distinct from centerfire cartridges and includes a rimmed case.
History: Introduced in 1887 by Stevens Arms & Tool Co., the .22 LR emerged from combining the 40-grain bullet of the .22 Extra Long with the case of the .22 Long. Since then, it has become the most widely manufactured cartridge. According to estimates by the National Shooting Sports Federation, the .22 LR accounts for approximately half of the 10 billion rounds produced annually.
Applications: target shooting, plinking (informal shooting at improvised targets), training, hunting, entry-level round for those new to shooting. I’m sure there are uses for this popular round that I have not seen – its popularity, availability, low cost, low recoil/noise factor and the plethora of long guns and handguns chambered for it keep it in the top spot where ammo sales are concerned. There are even shotshell variants available.
Typical Rife Type: bolt action, semiautomatic, single shot
Rep. Bullet Weight: 40
Muzzle Velocity: 1120-1140 (standard velocity); 1200-1300 (high velocity); over 1400 (hyper velocity). All number are feet per second.
Muzzle Energy: 115 (standard velocity); 150 (high velocity); 157 (hyper velocity, 36-grain bullet). All number are foot-pounds of energy.
Recoil Energy: 0.2, standard velocity; 0.24, high velocity; 0.23, hyper velocity (36 grain bullet). All numbers are foot-pounds of energy.
Comments: Being the most popular cartridge has numerous advantages. The widespread availability, which experienced a significant shortage around five years ago but has since rebounded strongly, coupled with the vast selection of firearms chambered for it, ensures that the .22 LR will remain the top choice for newcomers entering shooting sports due to its affordability and minimal recoil. Moreover, it continues to reign supreme as the preferred round for small-game hunting in forests and fields. Additionally, many governmental agencies utilize it for training purposes, recognizing its suitability for such tasks. Despite its humble origins, the .22 LR stands out as one of the most versatile and practical rounds available.
.223 Remington / 5.56X45 NATO
Description: A .22-caliber bottleneck-case cartridge derived from the .222 cartridge, currently serving as the military’s standard small arms and some machine guns round.
History: In 1957, a project began to develop a small-caliber, high-velocity firearm. Eugene Stoner’s scaled-down AR-10 design was chosen for the rifle contract, and the 5.56×45 (.223) round was selected as the cartridge to be used with the rifle. The commercial .223 cartridge was introduced in 1963, followed by the adoption of the military M193 version of the 5.56×45 in the subsequent year.
Applications: Varmint hunting, target, self-defense, military uses
Typical Rife Type: Early rifles were bolt action, with the AR-15 platform following. Probably best known in the AR-15 semiautomatic platform, with thousands of AR-style rifles sold yearly.
Rep. Bullet Weight: 55 grains
Muzzle Velocity: 3240
Muzzle Energy: 1282
Recoil Energy: 3.2
Comments: This round is great in several roles. If you are looking for a way to get into centerfire rifle shooting, this is a good choice. It is also popular in the self-defense/survival role. Little felt recoil, flat trajectory and decent ballistics make this round a best-seller.
.22-250 Remington
Description: A high-velocity, 224-caliber round designed for varmint hunting
History: The .22-250 started out as a wildcat round. The .250-3000 Savage case was necked down to take .224 bullets around 1937. Its popularity as a wildcat was cemented when Browning introduced their Browning High Power rifle for it in 1963. It was adopted by Remington in 1965 as the .22-250 Remington and added to their lineup. It is still popular, as it is a great varmint round that offers decent barrel life when cared for properly and is easy to reload.
Applications: varmint hunting, medium-sized predators, long-range smallbore shooting and competition
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 55
Muzzle Velocity: 3680
Muzzle Energy: 1654
Recoil Energy: 8.3
Comments: The .22-250 is considered “king” of American .22-caliber varmint rounds. The .220 Swift technically has greater ballistics but in terms of available ammunition and rifles, stick with the .22-250 if you are looking for a round that will drive a 55-grain bullet to just under 4,000 fps and a 45-grain bullet to over 4,000 fps.
.243 Winchester
Description: A 6mm/.243 caliber round that is good for varmints or deer-sized game out to 300 yards or so.
History: Introduced in 1955, the .243 was initially designed to perform well with both lighter and heavier bullet weights. Derived from a necked-down .308 case, the .243 has proven its durability over time. Recently, its popularity has seen a resurgence as more states have designated the .243/6mm as suitable for deer hunting, expanding its appeal among hunters.
Applications: hunting both varmints and deer, long-range competition, target shooting
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 95
Muzzle Velocity: 3100
Muzzle Energy: 2027
Recoil Energy: 11.3
Comments: I own a .243 Savage Axis II rifle and have successfully harvested deer with it. This cartridge showcases remarkable versatility—using heavier bullets for deer hunting and lighter ones for varmint control at distances exceeding 400 yards. It’s one of the most economical and versatile sub-.30-caliber rifles available. While its popularity has somewhat waned with the emergence of Creedmoor cartridges (discussed below), the .243 remains a strong seller with abundant ammunition options readily accessible.
6mm Creedmoor
Description: A necked-down 6.5 Creedmoor case is the basis for a cartridge that fires a .264-inch bullet. The 6.5 Creedmoor excels at long-range competitive shooting and hunting.
History: The 6mm Creedmoor was originally designed with a focus on long-range target shooting but has also become highly regarded as a hunting round. Its popularity stems from the excellent ballistic coefficients and sectional densities associated with .264 caliber bullets, making it a versatile and effective choice for various shooting disciplines.
Applications: long range shooting; hunting
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 103
Muzzle Velocity: 3050
Muzzle Energy: 2127
Recoil Energy: 12.5
Comments: If you are into shooting at 500-yards-plus or are looking for a great deer rifle out to 400 yards or so, the 6mm Creedmoor is worth a look. Easy to reload, it’s a winner.
6.5 Creedmoor
Description: Long range mid-caliber hunting and competition round.
History: The 6.5 Creedmoor was introduced by Hornady in 2007 and utilizes the .30 T/C case as its foundation. Designed to deliver less recoil compared to a .308 while still achieving sufficient velocity for exceptional ballistic performance, this cartridge has consistently been recognized as one of the top choices for long-range competition shooting since its inception. It is renowned for its accuracy at distances of 1000 yards or more.
Applications: extreme long range competitions; hunting
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 120
Muzzle Velocity: 3020
Muzzle Energy: 2430
Recoil Energy: 15.7
Comments: For those seeking an extreme long-range competition cartridge or a hunting round more powerful than a .243 but with less recoil than a .308, the 6.5 Creedmoor fits the bill perfectly. This versatile cartridge has been utilized globally for hunting various game types and has a strong record of success in long-range competitions.
.270 Winchester
Description: An old reliable. The .270 has been around for over 90 years but still delivers, with bullets weighing from 90 – 150 grains.
History: Introduced in 1925, the .270 gained substantial recognition during the 1940s and 1950s, largely due to influential writers like Jack O’Connor and Townsend Whelen who extolled its virtues. Its popularity remains robust to this day, with continued strong demand among shooters and hunters alike.
Applications: Hunting deer- or antelope-sized game or varmints with lighter bullets
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 130
Muzzle Velocity: 3060
Muzzle Energy: 2595
Recoil Energy: 17.3
Comments: Since its introduction in 1925, the .270 has been effectively used to hunt game animals ranging from coyotes to antelope-sized and even larger species. With plentiful reloading supplies and a wide array of factory loads available, this versatile cartridge is expected to remain popular for many years to come.
7mm-08 Remington
Description: A .284-caliber rifle round that is equally at home ringing metal targets or taking game from deer to non-dangerous plains animals.
History: The 7mm-08 Remington is derived from a necked-down and slightly lengthened .308 case, initially known as the wildcat 7mm/308. Remington officially recognized its potential in 1980 by introducing two rifles chambered for this cartridge. It has gained popularity among gunwriters and enthusiasts alike for its versatility, flat trajectory, and manageable recoil characteristics.
Applications: Hunting deer-sized game and larger, non-dangerous plains animals; metallic silhouette and long range shooting
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 140
Muzzle Velocity: 2800
Muzzle Energy: 2437
Recoil Energy: 16.7
Comments: For those seeking a cartridge capable of handling windy conditions with substantial knockdown power, the 7mm-08 Remington is worth considering. Whether you’re engaging metal targets at 500 yards or hunting thin-skinned African game, this versatile cartridge excels across a variety of scenarios.
7mm Remington Magnum
Description: A belted magnum cartridge for big game animals.
History: With its introduction in 1962, the 7mm Rem. Magnum has stayed popular among those who hunt large animals. Its belted case is derived from the famous .375 H&H Magnum; it headspaces on the belt, as do most belted cartridges.
Applications: hunting, sniping, long-distance shooting
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 154
Muzzle Velocity: 3100
Muzzle Energy: 3286
Recoil Energy: 26.2
Comments: The 7mm Remington Magnum’s versatility is underscored by its adoption for use by the U.S. Secret Service Counter-Sniper Team and its widespread application in hunting large game both in the United States and Africa. Known for its flat trajectory and manageable recoil, this cartridge is highly regarded as a great all-around choice for various shooting disciplines and hunting scenarios.
.300 BLK (.300 AAC Blackout)
Description: A short, .30-caliber round designed to imitate the ballistics of the 7.62×39 in an AR-platform rifle.
History: Certain military special units sought a cartridge with greater knockdown power than the 5.56 NATO round provided. They collaborated with Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC), which subsequently developed the .300 Blackout (BLK). This cartridge replicates the ballistics of the 7.62x39mm round in a subsonic platform, meeting the demands for enhanced performance in specialized military applications.
Applications: military, hunting, short-range metallic or other competitions
Typical Rife Type: semiauto (AR)
Rep. Bullet Weight: 125
Muzzle Velocity: 2215
Muzzle Energy: 1360
Recoil Energy: 6.6
Comments: The .300 Blackout performs exceptionally well in suppressed ARs due to its subsonic nature. It required some experimentation to optimize the AR platform for this low-pressure round, but it has since become widely popular. Hunters pursuing medium-sized game, including deer, favor it for its semi-automatic capability and the availability of multiple rounds. It has gained particular popularity among hog hunters for its effectiveness in controlling feral hog populations.
.300 Winchester Short Magnum
Description: A rebated rim, short magnum-cased .308-caliber cartridge with a case length of only 2.10 inch.
History: This round was developed in the early 2000s by the Winchester company with the aim of replicating the ballistics of the .300 Winchester Magnum in a shorter and lighter rifle platform.
Applications: hunting large game
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 165
Muzzle Velocity: 3223
Muzzle Energy: 3807
Recoil Energy: 28.3
Comments: This round is part of the family of short magnums produced by Winchester and other manufacturers. If you’re interested in achieving magnum-level ballistics with a shorter, lighter, and more easily carried rifle, it’s definitely worth considering.
.300 Winchester Magnum
Description: A belted, bottleneck magnum rifle cartridge designed to fit in a standard rifle action.
History: This round, introduced by Winchester in 1963 for its Model 70 rifle, shares the same case head dimensions as its parent cartridge, the .375 H&H Magnum. Despite the introduction of other .30-caliber magnums around the same time, this cartridge has remained popular while others have faded away.
Applications: hunting large game
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 180
Muzzle Velocity: 3146
Muzzle Energy: 3972
Recoil Energy: 33.9
Comments: If you are looking for a major player in the .30-caliber-magnum wars, take a look at the .300 Win Mag. With muzzle energy of almost two tons, there are few game animals around that this rifle couldn’t handle.
.30-30 Winchester
Description: A medium-level .30-caliber round that uses a rimmed cartridge and is usually found in lever action rifles.
History: Derived from the old black powder .30 Smokeless round introduced in 1898, the .30-30 was renamed to denote both its caliber and the transition to smokeless powder. Its enduring popularity stems from its association with lever-action rifles, which were predominant among hunters during its early years and remain widely available at affordable prices.
Applications: hunting medium- to big-game (North America); probably the most popular deer rifle cartridge in use today.
Typical Rife Type: lever action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 150
Muzzle Velocity: 2390
Muzzle Energy: 1903
Recoil Energy: 11.2
Comments: With its light recoil, .30-caliber expanding bullet, and affordable lightweight lever-action rifles, the .30-30 stands as the most popular deer round available for that action type. It’s widely regarded as the entry-level caliber for big game hunting, offering effective performance on deer-sized game out to distances of approximately 200 yards.
.30-06 Springfield
Description: According to articles from the N.R.A. and Outdoor Life, the .30-06 is considered the most popular all-around hunting round in the U.S. This .30-caliber cartridge has demonstrated its effectiveness both in wartime and in hunting scenarios. It features a rimless, bottlenecked design with a maximum case length of 2.94 inches.
History: The .30-06 round was introduced as the new military rifle cartridge in 1906. Named for its .30-caliber bullet and the year of its adoption, the designation ” .30-06″ has endured to the present day. Initially chambered in the 1903 Springfield bolt-action rifle, it gained renown as the primary cartridge for the M1 Garand rifle, as well as the 1919 air-cooled machine gun and other firearms. Today, it is highly esteemed as a versatile hunting round capable of taking most game animals found in the United States.
Applications: military (service round until the 7.62×51 .308 replaced it in 1954), hunting, target shooting, long-range competition
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 150
Muzzle Velocity: 2910
Muzzle Energy: 2820
Recoil Energy: 16
Comments: Despite its retirement from military service, civilian shooters continue to favor rifles chambered in .30-06. Known for its robust recoil, which approaches the upper limits of what most shooters find comfortable, it remains a popular choice among enthusiasts. Whether you’re a competitive paper target shooter, military match competitor, hunter, or firearms enthusiast of any kind, the .30-06 persists due to its versatility. It offers a wide range of bullet weights and is known for being easy to reload, making it adaptable to various shooting disciplines and preferences.
.308 / 7.62X51 NATO
Description: A rimless, bottlenecked cartridge that shoots a .308-caliber bullet.
History: The .308 round made its civilian debut in 1952, followed by its military adoption two years later. It has since emerged as the most popular short-action big game hunting round globally. The case of the .308 is 0.92 inches shorter than that of the .30-06.
Applications: hunting, military, law enforcement (sniping), target shooting, bench rest matches, other shooting sports.
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 150
Muzzle Velocity: 2820
Muzzle Energy: 2648
Recoil Energy: 14.4
Comments: The .308 stands out as a .30-caliber round capable of challenging the .30-06 for dominance among non-magnum 30-calibers. Its shorter case length allows it to fit into lighter and more compact rifles, while its impressive terminal ballistics make it incredibly versatile. Whether using light bullets for varmints or heavier ones for medium- to big-game, the .308 delivers effective performance across a wide range of applications. Its popularity is further bolstered by its widespread use in law enforcement and military roles, solidifying its status as a highly sought-after cartridge.
7.62.X39mm
Description: A short-cased, mid-level .30-caliber round used mostly in semiauto rifles for self-defense or hunting
History: In 1943, Russia developed a new intermediate cartridge, the 7.62x39mm, designed to be used in rifles, carbines, and automatic/selective-fire weapons. The cartridge quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness and reliability in harsh conditions. Following the war, the AK-47 rifle was chambered for this round, further enhancing its reputation. Today, the 7.62x39mm cartridge is available in semi-automatic or bolt-action rifles and is legal for deer hunting in many states when using appropriate ammunition.
Applications: informal shooting, short-to-medium range hunting, self-defense
Typical Rife Type: semiauto (i.e., SKS/AK47)
Rep. Bullet Weight: 123
Muzzle Velocity: 2309
Muzzle Energy: 1547
Recoil Energy: 8.1
Comments: If you’re seeking an affordable rifle with abundant steel-cased military-surplus ammunition, the 7.62x39mm round is an ideal choice. When paired with suitable ammunition, it functions effectively as a deer rifle in wooded environments at closer ranges. Its low recoil and the reliable performance of rifles and carbines chambered for this round further enhance its appeal.
.338 Lapua Magnum
Description: A heavy-caliber, high-energy .338 round designed for military sniping.
History: The .338 round was initially developed in the 1980s as a long-range sniper cartridge for use in Afghanistan and Iraq. A specialized British variant of the .338 was employed to achieve the longest confirmed sniper kill record in 2009, with a verified hit at 2,707 yards. Today, this round continues to be utilized as a hunting cartridge for various types of game due to its effective long-range capabilities.
Applications: military (sniping); hunting; long-distance shooting
Typical Rife Type: bolt action
Rep. Bullet Weight: 250
Muzzle Velocity: 3000
Muzzle Energy: 4893
Recoil Energy: 43.1
Comments: The .338 Lapua Magnum is the king of sniping rounds (well, if you don’t count the .50 BMG). Its enormous muzzle energy, close to 2 ½ tons in ft/lbs., helps get the bullet downrange with a flat trajectory and ensures that whatever it hits goes down. Capable of penetrating body armor at 1,000 meters, the round’s hunting applications are numerous. It would be just the thing for thick-skinned African game (although if hunting elephant, rhinoceros or other dangerous game a back-up rifle of larger caliber is suggested), If you are able to afford to feed it ($2.30 – $3.00 per round), it makes one great rifle to shoot, hunt with or otherwise really impress your shooting buddies! Interesting notes: “Lapua” comes from the Finnish ammunition company that helped develop it. Also, the round is being groomed to replace the .300 Winchester Magnum and the .50 BMG rounds in their anti-personnel sniping roles.
.458 SOCOM
Description: Large-caliber, heavy-bullet load designed to improve stopping power over the 5.56 round when fired from an AR-pattern rifle
History: Introduced officially in 2001, the round was developed following discussions among Special Operations Command (SOCOM) forces who identified a need for a new cartridge after experiencing challenges with multiple shots required to stop opponents in Mogadishu. The case of this round was based on the .50 Action Express (AE), but it was lengthened and the rim trimmed to .473 inches. This modification enables it to be fired in AR-15/M16 platforms, enhancing its versatility and suitability for military applications.
Applications: Hunting, self defense,military, alternate caliber for an AR-15 lower
Typical Rife Type: semiauto (AR)
Rep. Bullet Weight: 300
Muzzle Velocity: 1900
Muzzle Energy: 2405
Recoil Energy: 30.5
Comments: The .458 SOCOM round is engineered to feed from standard G.I. magazines, where a 20-round magazine can hold 7 rounds of .458 SOCOM without requiring any modifications. Along with the .50 Beowulf, it performs effectively at close to medium ranges against various targets. When paired with the appropriate upper in this caliber, it is fully compatible with the M4 carbine platform. This cartridge excels at medium to large game hunting within approximately 150 yards and provides robust protection in bear country.
.50 Beowulf
Description: A heavy-bullet, .500-caliber bullet/cartridge designed to improve stopping power over the 5.56 round when fired from an AR-15.
History: Introduced by Alexander Arms, the .50 Beowulf round was designed around a rebated-rim case that accommodates a 7.62×39 bolt face. Alexander Arms adapted its tapered case from a .50 Action Express (AE) cartridge to ensure functionality in semiautomatic rifles. Detailed information about this round beyond its design and compatibility is limited.
Applications: Stopping vehicles that attempt to go through checkpoints, hunting all North American game, other defensive applications
Typical Rife Type: semiauto (AR)
Rep. Bullet Weight: 400
Muzzle Velocity: 1875
Muzzle Energy: 3123
Recoil Energy: 43.1
Comments: If you’re seeking a major-league critter thumper based on the AR-15 platform, the .50 Beowulf fits the bill. With a 400-grain, .50-caliber bullet delivering over a ton and a half of muzzle energy, it’s capable of taking down any animal on the continent within reasonable range. However, due to its heavy bullets fired at velocities akin to .45-70, it exhibits a rainbow-like trajectory beyond about 150 yards. Its standout feature is the ability to fire such massive bullets from an AR-15, ensuring multiple follow-up shots if needed.
Conclusions
No matter what your rifle needs are, there’s a cartridge listed here that can fulfill them. From 55-grain varmint rounds to powerful magnums, you have a wide range of options. While some of these rounds may be costly, if you find one that suits your shooting style and needs, reloading can be a cost-effective solution. While factory ammo is convenient, it can become expensive over time.
Let’s look at some specific recommendations…
For deer hunting, any caliber above .22 is suitable. (Apologies to those in states where .22 caliber is legal for deer hunting; it’s not permitted where I reside). Magnum rounds are typically unnecessary for deer-sized game and may be overkill. In my area, popular deer hunting calibers include .243/6mm, .30-30, .308, and .30-06. I’m sure every deer hunter has their preferred choice.
Varmints (small game like coyotes or smaller) are effectively dispatched with the .22 caliber rifles discussed earlier (and some larger calibers). To ensure small varmints are effectively neutralized (unless you want to preserve the hide or pelt intact), light and fast bullets that fragment upon impact are recommended. Since varmint hunting often involves longer ranges, quality optics are essential for accurate targeting at extended distances.
Paper Target (Bullseye/Military Rifle) Competition – The dominant choice in long-standing bullseye competitions continues to be the venerable .30-06 caliber. When shooting with open sights, such as on a military-surplus M1 Garand, shooters face the challenge of performing consistently at distances of 100 yards and beyond. While some competitors opt for rifles chambered in .308 or other calibers, the decision ultimately rests on personal preference and what each shooter feels most comfortable and proficient with.
Metallic Silhouette Competition – Similar to the deer calibers discussed earlier, any caliber larger than .22 should generally be effective, particularly at longer distances. However, some shooting ranges impose restrictions on allowed calibers to prevent damage to steel targets, which can occur with rifles capable of piercing them. For extreme long-range metallic target shooting, shooters typically use calibers akin to the .338 Lapua Magnum, designed for engaging steel targets situated at significant distances. there. Again, target damage can be a concern so each match has the right to dictate which calibers are allowed.
Self-Defense – In this context, there’s a wide range of suitable calibers for self-defense purposes. The .223 and .308 are particularly popular choices. When selecting a rifle for home or vehicle defense, one critical consideration is the risk of overpenetration. In a life-threatening situation, the goal is to effectively stop threats without risking harm to innocent bystanders due to bullets passing through walls or barriers. Many people opt for firearms chambered in .223 or 7.62×39 for these roles because these rounds generally strike a balance of stopping power and reduced risk of overpenetration, particularly when compared to larger caliber rounds.
We have looked at a few popular rifle calibers and have examined some possible usage scenarios. The final thought that I want to leave you with is that everything written above is based or colored by my experiences. You may see other calibers as viable and might be asking “why wasn’t ___ included?”. As stated, this article is based on personal experiences and is written through my perspective. There are many fine rifle calibers out there – you may have others that you shoot regularly that fill a need for you. That’s great – I had to choose just a few to write about. If you have a favorite I didn’t mention or if you’ve had a really cool hunting or other type of adventure with your rifle(s), leave a comment below. Now…get out there, be safe, and go shooting!
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Isn’t the 6mm the same as the Remington .244? I own a .244 and shoot low grain 6mm (<90) but I can't shoot .243 ammo in my .244 or 6mm.
T.D., sorry for the delayed response.
I think a lot of it has to do with the rifling rate of twist – lighter bullets tend to shoot better. Is it that the .243 won;t chamber, or is it just not accurate? Technically they’re pretty much the same, but some .244 chambers may not accept the .243. Here’s a good explanation I found that sheds more light on this.
Good luck with it! Keep us posted- thanks for writing!
I shoot a 6mm Rem and love it. The cartridge is essentially a 7×57 necked down to .243” cal. Originally launched by Remington in rifles with 1:12 twist rate barrels as .244 Rem. The 1:12 twist rate did not stabilise the heavier bullets and Winchester’s .243 launched the following year in rifles with 1:10 twist rate barrels stole the show.
.244 Rem and 6mm Rem are entirely interchangeable cartridges, but most rifles designated .244 will have slow twist rate barrels and will not stabilise heavier bullets. My 6mm Rem has 1:10 twist rate and is marginal with many 90 grain bullets, but is VERY accurate with 80 grain Barnes TTSX bullets.
The .243 Win cartridge will NOT fit in a .244/6mm Rem. The Remington cartridge is longer but has more taper. The .243 Win cartridge is ‘fatter’ at the shoulder and should on no acount be crammed into a .244/6mm Rem chamber.
Excellent comment, one that reminds us that, just because 2 cartridges are the same caliber and “look alike” they are not interchangeable. I remember before I bought my .243 going back and forth in my mind about the 6mm (and the 6.5 Creedmoor) but I settled on the .243 as ammunition, components for reloading etc. were more available. You are right – once the the .243 came out, with its ability to shoot and stabilise 75 -105 grain bullets it pretty much killed the .244. The host cases for the 6mm and the 243 are different,as you mentioned which complicates things in terms of interchangabiliity. They weren’t meant to be swapped back and forth. Also, thanks for pointing out that you shouldn’t try to cram a a .243 into a .244/6mm chamber-good point! Very astute comment – thanks for replying!
Wow, thanks for this article 🙂 I’m going to print it and have it laminated for a resource. Great information and easy to understand.
I’m glad it helped you – that’s what it’s all about!
Hi sir your article really helped me decide on what rifle I will buy for long range shooting.
Me too Mike. I’ve been around pistols and rifles for over 65 years but usually just for plinking or shooting rabbits or gar fish in Louisiana; .22’s, .38’s, and 30.06’s. But I really never got into it deeper than fun shooting and cleaning. I’ve always wanted to do my own reloads, so maybe this year is the year I do that. I’m going to copy and laminate this also, … great article.
John, thanks for the kind words. I appreciate them!
Great article – Quick question – If 6mm Creedmoor is not specifically listed in someones load data what caliber can I use as a ‘substitute’ for initial load data?
Thanks in advance
Nat
Hmm…that’s good one. Since the 6mm Creedmoor shoots a .243 bullet, maybe the .243 data might work. Better yet, go to:
https://press.hornady.com/assets/site/hornady/files/load-data/6mm-creedmoor-all-data.pdf
here’s some published data from Hornady. Good luck and have fun – it’s a great caliber!
Don’t. Stick with proven data from a reputable reloading manual for your specific chambering until you gain a lot of experience in reloading, Use exact components as listed. A lot of firearms have been damaged and people injured or killed. As an example, the C96 Mauser in 30 Mauser will chamber ammo for a Tokarev, and the cases are for practical purposes, identical. The Tokarev operates at higher pressures, and the C96 usually is damaged or worse if this is attempted. 30 Mauser can be safely fired from the Tokarev. Check the SAAMI specs for operating pressure info. Keep in mind that SAAMI specs are for the weakest action in a given chambering.
Jason, good advice. I usually don’t recommend subbing data for other cartridges – not sure why I did so above. Good points – everyone out there, Jason is correct. Thanks for writing!
I used to reload a lot of different Ammo for friends or friends of friends etc… I would always ask them to bring the gun they were using and we would find a load that shot well…. I learned so much in those couple years. The term “shot well” for some is sub-MOA @100 for others it’s sub-clay bird @100 sub-paper plate @100…. you get the idea. I have a subscription to an online database (can’t remember the exact name) that lists reload data and can be sorted by rifle caliber, rifle manufacturer, etc… listed real world velocity, performance and accuracy of a load out of said rifle. Granted all barrels and rifles react differently to each load but it gave you a really good starting point with “that” rifle. Sure saved a lot of time for working up from scratch each time. Just thought this might help somebody that wasn’t aware that kind of information was out there.
They had the 218 Bee when I was just starting out, in 1972 I believe. It shot pretty good for foxes and coyote out to 200 yds. Are there any fans out there on a decent lever action?
Anyone have one? Chime in!
Great comment – I remember the 218 Bee. Anyone out there have one? Chime in!
Great article!
Thanks! Appreciate the compliment!
Hi Mike, what is your take on the 224 Valkerie round in the ar15 platform? Versatility and availability?
Mornè, the 224 Valkyrie is a powerhouse cartidge. I’ve read some reviews that compare it favorably to the 6.5 Grendel in terms of energy released. It is still supersonic past 1000 yards and has the energy ft. lbs. to prove it. Considering that, with a new bolt and barrel, your current AR15 will shoot the new .224 at a lower cost than the 6.5 Grendel, plus the ammo is available in at least 4 loadings with the Federal 90 grain round being probably the most popular. It is available now. Do you have facilities to shoot to 1000 yards where you live? If so, you’re very lucky…I don’t. Thanks for your comment!
Really liked the breakdown on what each round is best for.
The recoil numbers on the 6.5 Creedmoor vs. the .308 aren’t making sense to me. You’re showing the 6.5 Creedmoor with ~ 1 ft./lb higher recoil than the .308, but in reading the test data elsewhwere on snipercountry.com, taking the data from the 7.62×39 vs .308 and comparing it with the data from the .243 Winchester vs. 6.5 Creedmoor, snipercountry is showing ~ 7 ft./lbs higher average recoil with the .308 vs the 6.5 Creedmoor. That makes more sense to me with everything I’ve seen and read about the two rounds. Please clarify.
Terry, you caught me – that was a stat misprint that slipped by my proofreading. You are right – it would make sense that the .308 would show more recoil energy than a 6.5-caliber. You caught the difference – you are obviously very much into rifles and recoil. Do you shoot any of the calibers you mentioned above? The 6.5 C. is becoming the darling of the long-range set. Thanks for catching that difference – as I said, I can only attribute it to the data I used at the time then typing it wrong. As for the 6.5 Creedmoor, I refer to it as the “10mm of the rifle world”, meaning that the 10mm is growing by leaps and bounds in handgun circles, similar to the growth of the 6.5. I still use the old-fashioned .243 for most rifle tasks that I undertake, but I am getting a little recoil-shy the older I get and the .243 is about right for what I do in terms of terminal ballistics and recoil energy. Hope my long-way-around-the-barn reply answers your question. Thanks for writing.
Thank for the article, really interesting! What about the in Scandinavia common calibers 9,3 mm *57 mm and 9,3mm *62 mm?
Stefan Svensson
Hässleholm, Sweden
Stefan, to be honest I know very little about the larger metric calibers that are popular in Europe and surrounding countries. I do know that the 9.3, in its various case lengths, is a very effective hunting round. In terms of caliber-in-inches, it comes out to be about .366. It is similar to our .358 Winchester round. With a 286-grain bullet at over 2600 fps, I would imagine it should be good for just about any animal you would care to hunt in Scandinavia. In its longer case length, it should be even more effective (with the right powder) due to greater powder capacity. Thanks for writing!
Great! Thx from Germany – i hope you makes more!
Udo, thanks for the kind words…I am working on more. Here’s a hint… .50BMG in a bolt action…keep reading!
Greetings. Great article. Thanks.
Check your case length for the .30-06 round.
Cheers.
Sam, you’re right – I transposed the numbers. Max case length should be 2.494. Thanks for catching that!
left out some quite useful rounds: 6mm Remington; .257 Roberts; .26-06 Rem; .260 Rem; 7mm Mauser; .35 Rem; and so forth. they may not be the “in” round of the day, but have and will take a lot of deer.
Tommy, yeah, had to draw the line somewhere. Those are all good rounds, no doubt. Thanks for writing!
Hi Mike, very good read. I wonder if you could do a write up for the .338 winmag along the same format?
Dami, I wish I could get hold of one to shoot – I would write it up. I am limited by what companies will send me. Would be fun, though – that’s a great caliber! Thanks for writing!
Awesome page! Thank you very much for the information!
Dennis, glad to have been of help. Thanks for the kind words.
What is your thought on a .204 ruger for a prairie dog/varmint round?
Zach, the .204 is a great varmint round, especially with 35-40-grain bullets. It depends if you are going to go after small varmints – you mentioned prairie dogs – or coyotes, too. For smaller, colony-type critters the .204 is great, but if I were going after coyotes, I might lean towards the .223. The .204 will put them down…it just might mean you have to wait for them to be in a little closer. Either way, you’ll have a lot of fun. Thanks for writing!
Fantastic article Mike! Looking for your opinion on a particular question. I’m a recently retired veteran who has bought a micro-ranch. I have a few full size horses, a couple of small miniature horses, chickens, and few cats & dogs to protect. My neighbour farmers have informed me that as far as predators are concerned, we may be visited by foxes and the odd coyote. I’m debating what size caliber would be suitable for dispatching them. I’m not interested in preserving their hides and fur, just eliminating the threat. Shooting distances are likely 100 yds max, but typically around 75 yds. I was reading that .22LR should be adequate, but others say it was underpowered. As a veteran, I am comfortable using everything from the 5.56 NATO, to 50 cal, to 12 gauge shells. My wife has limited experience with firearms, but she expects to “take charge” of a predator situation should I not be present when it arises. Cost of the rifle/ammo is not a factor.
Your thoughts would be appreciated. Thank You.
Brent, if the largest critter you’ll deal with is a coyote at fairly close range, the smallest I would go is .22 Magnum. I might lean towards a centerfire like the .223…there plenty of rifles out there, ammo is cheap and most anyone can deal with the recoil. You are already familiar with it in its 5.56 guise. You shouldn’t need anything more than that unless you start having problems with hogs … in that case, check out the new 350 Legend. You can get it in the AR platform you’re familiar with. It would do well for about anything you’ll face inside of 200 yards. Thanks for the kind words and thanks for writing!
Love the article. New to ballistics myself and find this fascinating. Going over other ballistics, how do you think the 30-378 stacks up?
Brandon, the .30-378 is a screamer…it can push a .30 caliber bullet to over 3300 fps. I’m not sure anything else on the list compares with it. It might be the fastest .30 out there. Thanks for writing!
great article, it taught me a lot. Thank You.
Thanks, Nathan. Thanks for writing!
You didn’t include my favorite , didn’t expect you to, 6.5×55. Hard to beat perfect.
Howard, I had to draw the line somewhere…everybody has a favorite. I say go with what works for you, whether “popular” or not. Thanks for writing!
I’m just old school ; sorry about that.
Howard, don’t ever apologize for being old school…I am, too, and sometimes that’s an advantage!
Love the 6.5×55, had an older REM 700 (ADL I think) and let it get away. Regretted that trade to this day.
I’m very new to shooting, this was very informative. Thank you.
Glad to help – thanks for writing!
Where’s the description of the .50 BMG? I had fun reading everything else and was looking forward to reading about the .50 BMG.
greg, check out my AR-50 review for more info on the great .50 BMG round and one of the best rifles that shoots it.
Thanks for writing.
What is the distance a 22-250 will travel before it starts to drop
Rodney, depends on the bullet and powder load. Check out this guide:
https://www.ballisticstudies.com/Knowledgebase/.22-250.html
This should answer any questions you have. Thanks for writing!
Rodney, I don’t know if you’ve found your answer yet, but, any projectile starts to “drop”, with respect to the departure trajectory, the instant it leaves the muzzle of the barrel. Nothing can defy gravity!
Too true. Some drop faster than others. Thanks, Alan.
Well, to be precise, the rate of drop is the same for all cartridges (i.e. gravity is the same regardless of cartridge)., but the drop at a given distance is different because the amount of time it took for the bullet to reach that distance is different depending on the load, air drag of the bullet, etc., therefore the time the bullet was pulled by gravity is different. E.g. the amount drop after 1 second is pretty much the same regardless of load, bullet, etc., but how far the bullet traveled in that second, or how long the bullet was in flight to travel 500 yards, is very different depending on the load, air drag of bullet, etc.
GeoinSD, you are correct. I should have put it like that – gravity effects all bullets in the same way, it;s just that some take a while longer to get to a certain point than others. Thanks for the info, and thanks for writing.
Great article, thank you
Thanks, Owen-appreciate it!
I don’t think “caliber” and “metric” are mutually exclusive terms. You have caliber in metric (mm) and caliber in imperial (inch). Both are calibers units.
Vynes, you’re right. If I made it sound like they weren’t the same, I’m sorry. Thanks for writing!
What about the 45/70 govt. That’s a real shoulder buster. Is it because it is a light gun or has high muzzle energy?
John, usually, both. My son has a single-shot break-open .45-70 and when he shoots it, he knows it. His shoulder gets sore, moreso than with any other of his guns. Of course, it’s a single shot and weighs not much; a heavier gun would be easier to shoot. Also, you’re moving a 400+ grain bullet out at a pretty good clip, so there is going to be recoil. I’d say both reasons you mentioned have something to do with it. If you reload, you can tame it a bit. Thanks for writing!
What’s your take on the 7.62x54R? Doesn’t it have close to the same characteristics as the .308? In use for 100+years and still a decent hunting choice.
Wondering if you still see replies to this article.
Chriselalto, as you said that round is really decent for hunting, with the right bullet. It does seem to hover around .308 ballistics. The longer, rimmed case isn’t the most efficient but considering when it appeared, it’s not bad. And, yes, I do still reply to older review and article comments as long as I see them – thanks for writing!