Lindcott Armory Compare / 4.6x30mm HK vs 5.56x45mm NATO
Cartridge comparison
4.6x30mm HK vs 5.56x45mm NATO
5.56x45mm NATO is faster (3,240 vs 2,400 fps); 5.56x45mm NATO carries more energy (1,400 vs 400 ft·lb); 4.6x30mm HK recoils less.
4.6x30mm HK →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–800 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
5.56x45mm NATO →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–1000 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| 4.6x30mm HK | 5.56x45mm NATO | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Pistol | Rifle |
| Introduced | 1999 | 1980 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.18″ | 0.224″ |
| Case length | 1.181″ | 1.76″ |
| Velocity | 2,300–2,400 fps | 2,750–3,240 fps |
| Energy | 300–400 ft·lb | 1,200–1,400 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 58,015 psi | 62,000 psi |
| Recoil | 0.3–0.8 ft·lb | 3.8–5.5 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 200 yd | 600 yd |
FAQs
- Is 4.6x30mm HK faster than 5.56x45mm NATO?
- 5.56x45mm NATO is faster — up to 3,240 fps versus 2,400 fps.
- Does 4.6x30mm HK hit harder than 5.56x45mm NATO?
- 5.56x45mm NATO carries more muzzle energy (1,400 vs 400 ft·lb).