Lindcott Armory Compare / 5.45x39mm Soviet vs 5.56x45mm NATO
Cartridge comparison
5.45x39mm Soviet vs 5.56x45mm NATO
5.56x45mm NATO is faster (3,240 vs 3,000 fps); 5.56x45mm NATO carries more energy (1,400 vs 1,100 ft·lb); 5.45x39mm Soviet recoils less.
5.45x39mm Soviet →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 ↗
| 5.45x39mm Soviet | 5.56x45mm NATO | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Rifle | Rifle |
| Introduced | 1974 | 1980 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.22″ | 0.224″ |
| Case length | 1.535″ | 1.76″ |
| Velocity | 2,900–3,000 fps | 2,750–3,240 fps |
| Energy | 950–1,100 ft·lb | 1,200–1,400 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 51,488 psi | 62,000 psi |
| Recoil | 2.5–4 ft·lb | 3.8–5.5 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 500 yd | 600 yd |
FAQs
- Is 5.45x39mm Soviet faster than 5.56x45mm NATO?
- 5.56x45mm NATO is faster — up to 3,240 fps versus 3,000 fps.
- Does 5.45x39mm Soviet hit harder than 5.56x45mm NATO?
- 5.56x45mm NATO carries more muzzle energy (1,400 vs 1,100 ft·lb).