Determining the single most common rifle caliber in America is a complex task, as data collection on civilian firearm ownership is fragmented and often unavailable. However, strong evidence points to the .223 Remington/5.56 NATO as a leading contender, if not the outright winner, for the title. This article will explore why this cartridge reigns supreme in the American firearms landscape.
The Ubiquity of .223 Remington/5.56 NATO
The popularity of the .223 Remington/.556 NATO stems from a confluence of factors:
1. Military Adoption and Civilian Spillover:
The widespread adoption of the 5.56 NATO round by the US military, starting with the M16 rifle, had a profound impact on the civilian market. Millions of surplus rifles and vast quantities of ammunition became available after military contracts, fueling a surge in civilian ownership. This created a large, established market for .223 Remington (the civilian equivalent of 5.56 NATO, with slight dimensional differences).
2. Versatility and Performance:
The .223 Remington/.556 NATO offers a compelling balance of characteristics. It boasts relatively low recoil, making it manageable for new shooters and facilitating rapid follow-up shots. Its flat trajectory and decent accuracy at moderate ranges make it suitable for various applications, from target shooting to hunting small to medium-sized game.
3. Affordable Ammunition:
Due to its widespread use and high production volume, .223 Remington ammunition is consistently among the most affordable centerfire rifle cartridges available. This affordability makes it accessible to a broader range of shooters, further contributing to its popularity.
4. Wide Range of Firearms:
The .223 Remington/.556 NATO chambering is found in an incredibly diverse range of firearms, from lightweight AR-15 platform rifles to hunting carbines and precision rifles. This adaptability caters to a vast spectrum of shooting preferences and needs.
Challengers to the Throne: Other Popular Calibers
While .223 Remington/.556 NATO enjoys a strong lead, several other calibers hold significant popularity in the US:
1. .22 Long Rifle:
The venerable .22 Long Rifle (.22LR) is a perennial favorite, particularly for plinking, small game hunting, and target shooting. Its affordability and low recoil make it an excellent choice for beginners. However, its lower power compared to .223 Remington means it is not a direct competitor in terms of overall rifle usage.
2. .308 Winchester/7.62 NATO:
A powerful and versatile cartridge favored by hunters and long-range shooters, the .308 Winchester offers superior stopping power compared to .223 Remington, but at the cost of greater recoil and higher ammunition prices.
3. 9mm (In Carbines):
The 9mm cartridge, widely popular in handguns, is also increasingly used in carbines, often as a personal defense option. While popular, the penetration and range capabilities are typically less than other calibers on this list.
Conclusion: A Reigning Champion
While the exact figures remain elusive, considerable evidence suggests the .223 Remington/5.56 NATO caliber maintains its position as the most common rifle caliber in America. Its combination of military legacy, versatility, affordability, and wide availability in various firearm platforms makes it a dominant force in the US firearms market, likely for years to come. However, the landscape of firearm ownership is dynamic, and future trends may alter this ranking. Further research and data collection are needed to paint a complete picture.
