NCJ Number
203817
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 51 Issue: 12 Dated: December 2003 Pages: 22,24,26
Date Published
December 2003
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes the performance and law enforcement uses for the various weights of bullets for the .223 rifle.
Abstract
The myriad of bullet weights are classified as light weight, 40-52 grains; medium weight, 55-60 grains; and heavy weight, 62-77 grains. This article suggests the missions for which each of these weight classifications are appropriate. The light-weight bullets (40-52 grain HP's) generally offer limited penetration (6 to 9 inches), a temporary cavity 3.5 to 4.5 inches in diameter, and nearly 100-percent fragmentation. Many correctional agencies use these loads to minimize penetration and ricochet. Law enforcement scenarios in which excessive penetration is to be avoided should consider these loads. The 55-grain loads (medium weight) represent the original bullet weight of the .223 cartridge. In the 55-grain weight, a further distinction can be made between JSP and FMJ bullets, as well as the JHP or expansion-enhanced loads. The 55-60 grain soft-point and full-metal jacket bullets penetrate from 10 to 17 inches, with the soft points producing less and the FMJ and bonded soft points producing more penetration. This ammunition is suited to general patrol duties in which vehicle stops are routine, when the bullet is likely to face glass or metal intermediate barriers. These loads have temporary cavities 3.5-4.5 inches in diameter and retained weights of 50 percent for soft point and FMJ designs to nearly 100 percent for bonded designs. The heavier bullets (62-77 grain in SP, HP, FMJ) are relatively new to the .223 and require faster twist barrels to be stabilized effectively. These heavy bullets provide penetration from 10 to 18 inches and a weight retention of 30 to 10 percent. These bullets are best suited for general patrol use, especially when vehicles are involved. They also offer better wound ballistics at longer ranges than lighter weight bullets. At close and intermediate ranges (under 100 yards), when no intermediate barriers are present and headshots can be made, the .223 with heavier weight bullets may provide acceptable accuracy and wounding effectiveness.