Caliber matchup
| Metric | 5.56 NATO | 6.5 Creedmoor |
|---|---|---|
| Typical bullet | 62 gr | 140 gr |
| Muzzle velocity | 3060 fps | 2700 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 1290 ft·lb | 2266 ft·lb |
| Cost per round | $0.45 | $0.95 |
| Recoil | Light | Moderate-light |
| Introduced | 1980 | 2007 |
| Best role | AR-15 standard | Long-range / hunting |
5.56 NATO: Flat, light-recoiling, cheap; the American rifle round.
6.5 Creedmoor: High-BC bullets stay supersonic past 1,200 yd; less wind drift than .308.
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