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Lindcott Armory

Cartridge comparison

4.6x30mm HK vs 5.56x45mm NATO

4.6x30mm HK and 5.56x45mm NATO are both in the reference; see the full spec comparison below.

Side by side

4.6x30mm HK5.56x45mm NATO
TypePistolRifle
Introduced19991980
Bullet diameter0.1831″0.2244″
Case length1.2008″1.7598″
Max pressure58,015 psi62,000 psi
Recoil0.3–0.8 ft·lb3.8–5.5 ft·lb
Effective range200 yd600 yd

Highlighted cells hold the clear edge where both sides have a number. Every figure is a range maximum from the reference; typical loads run lower.

Case profiles, to scale

Drawn to the same scale, so the proportions are true. Physical size varies with your screen.

ToolOverlay 4.6x30mm HK and 5.56x45mm NATO trajectories with real loads in Ballistic Compare