223/5.56 vs 6.5 Grendel vs 7.62x39 | 100 Yard Energy/Velocity Test

Published on October 28, 2023
Duration: 12:47

This video presents a 100-yard ballistic test comparing 5.56x45mm NATO, 6.5 Grendel, and 7.62x39mm ammunition. The host measures muzzle velocity and energy, then re-measures at 100 yards to determine velocity and energy loss. The results highlight how bullet weight, ballistic coefficient, and diameter affect downrange performance, with the 7.62x39mm demonstrating surprising energy retention despite a lower BC than the 6.5 Grendel.

Quick Summary

At 100 yards, the 7.62x39mm (123gr Noler Varmageddon) retained more energy (1331 ft-lbs) than the 5.56x45mm (60gr Vmax) (877 ft-lbs). The 6.5 Grendel (123gr SST) had the highest BC but lost significant energy, highlighting the interplay of BC and bullet diameter in downrange performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 00:38Ammunition Selection
  3. 01:50Rifle Platforms Used
  4. 02:23Muzzle Velocity Testing
  5. 04:275.56x45mm 100 Yard Test
  6. 05:156.5 Grendel 100 Yard Test
  7. 06:337.62x39mm 100 Yard Test
  8. 07:45Data Breakdown & Analysis
  9. 09:04Key Findings & Discussion
  10. 10:59Handload vs. Factory Ammo
  11. 11:41Conclusion & Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

How does 7.62x39mm compare to 5.56x45mm in energy retention at 100 yards?

At 100 yards, the 7.62x39mm (123gr Noler Varmageddon) retained significantly more energy (1331 ft-lbs) than the 5.56x45mm (60gr Vmax) (877 ft-lbs), indicating better downrange power for the 7.62x39mm in this specific test.

Which caliber retains more velocity at 100 yards: 6.5 Grendel or 7.62x39mm?

In this test, the 6.5 Grendel (123gr SST) retained a higher average velocity (2144 ft/s) at 100 yards compared to the 7.62x39mm (123gr Noler Varmageddon) (2208 ft/s), despite the 7.62x39mm having a lower ballistic coefficient.

What is the impact of ballistic coefficient on energy loss in rifle cartridges?

While a higher ballistic coefficient generally leads to less velocity and energy loss, this test showed nuances. The 6.5 Grendel had the highest BC but lost substantial energy, while the 7.62x39mm with a lower BC retained more energy at 100 yards, suggesting bullet diameter also plays a crucial role.

What were the muzzle velocities of the tested ammunition?

The tested ammunition had the following average muzzle velocities: 5.56x45mm (60gr Vmax) at 2777 ft/s, 6.5 Grendel (123gr SST) at 2263 ft/s, and 7.62x39mm (123gr Noler Varmageddon) at 2490 ft/s.

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