Quick Tip: 5.45x39mm & 5.56x45mm NATO - What's the Diff?

Published on April 13, 2020
Duration: 2:47

This video compares the 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges, detailing their historical introductions and key ballistic differences. The 5.45x39mm, developed for the AK-74, exhibits a slower velocity but a tendency to tumble for increased wound cavity. The 5.56x45mm NATO, often associated with the AR-15 platform, offers higher velocity and penetration.

Quick Summary

The 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges differ significantly. Introduced in 1974 with the AK-74, the 5.45x39mm (39mm case) travels at ~2800 fps and tumbles for wound cavity. The 5.56x45mm NATO (45mm case) is faster at ~3150 fps, penetrates better, and has less drop.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & 5.45x39mm History
  2. 00:335.56x45mm NATO History
  3. 00:49Velocity Comparison
  4. 01:13Ballistic Drop Comparison
  5. 01:31Terminal Performance Differences
  6. 02:01Case Length & Naming

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key historical differences between 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO?

The 5.45x39mm was introduced in 1974 with the AK-74. The 5.56x45mm NATO is also a military cartridge from the 1970s, distinct from .223 Remington, and commonly used in AR-15 platforms.

How do the velocities of 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO compare?

A 60-grain 5.45 projectile typically moves around 2800 fps. A heavier 62-grain 5.56 XM855 projectile is faster, reaching approximately 3150 fps.

What is the difference in ballistic drop between 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO at 300 yards?

Using a 100-yard zero, the 5.45x39mm cartridge experiences roughly a 14-inch drop at 300 yards. The 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge has a smaller drop, around 9 inches at the same distance.

How do 5.45x39mm and 5.56x45mm NATO perform differently in terminal ballistics?

The 5.45x39mm is known for its tendency to tumble in soft tissue, creating a larger wound cavity. The 5.56x45mm NATO is generally considered a more effective penetrator round.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →