5.56x45
(.223) vs. 6.8 mm SPC A quick
overview with pictures
These are two rounds used in the AR15
platform. We took a few quick
pics of this Bushmaster in a .270 cal. 6.8mm
SPC (Special Purpose Cartridge) (the one with
the red tip) and the standard 5.56x45 (.223)
below it. The 6.8 is a bit larger so the 30
5.56 mags only hold 25 of the 6.8
This gas operated
semi-automatic packs a bigger punch
than our 5.56mm/.223models – a
.270 cal. 6.8mm SPC (Special Purpose
Cartridge) specifically developed for
the military, but now available commercially.
Velocity averages a bit over 2600 FPS
(with Hornady 115 Gr.V-Max), and the
heavier bullet weights deliver excellent
terminal energies. The 6.8 mm SPC was
developed from a .30 Remington case
which is shortened slightly to fit
the AR15 type magazine. Due to the
“fatter” case diameter, magazine capacity in a 30 Round AR type shell
is reduced to 26 Rounds, and 6.8 specific springs and followers are used. The
bolt is also different - due again to case diameter (take care not to interchange
a 5.56mm/.223 bolt with a 6.8mm SPC bolt). - Busmaster Website
It's a R.H. Twist – 1
turn in 10”
Here are a selection
of AR ammo types. The 5.56x45 at top
and bottom, the .7.62x51 (.308) second
from top, 6.8 SPR below that and 9mm
below that
The Bushmaster 6.8mm
SPC Rifle and an AR15 SBR in 5.56x45
(.223)