If you’ve ever spent a long weekend at the range, you know that not all ammo is created equal. Some shoot cleaner, some run smoother, and some make your wallet cry a little less. When it comes to 5.56x45 ammo, finding the right balance between cost, accuracy, and consistency can make or break your range day.

So, how do you pick the best 5.56×45 rounds for practice? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

1. Know What You’re Shooting For

Before grabbing a few boxes, ask yourself — what’s the goal? Range practice isn’t about defense or hunting; it’s about repetition, rhythm, and refining your aim. You need ammo that cycles cleanly, stays accurate at medium distances, and doesn’t cost a fortune when you’re firing hundreds of rounds.

That’s why shooters usually prefer Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds. FMJs are built for punching paper targets. They’re reliable, consistent, and ideal for drills that test accuracy and speed.

2. Bullet Weight Matters

When it comes to range shooting, the most common weights for 5.56x45 ammo are between 55 and 62 grains.

• 55-grain FMJ: Great for general target practice and most rifles. It’s lightweight, easy on recoil, and perfect for new shooters or long-range sessions.
• 62-grain FMJ: Slightly heavier and offers better stability in windy conditions. It’s often preferred for rifles with faster twist rates.

If your rifle’s barrel twist is 1:9 or 1:8, a 55-grain FMJ usually performs beautifully. But if you’re shooting with a 1:7 twist, the 62-grain rounds will stabilize better.

3. Brass vs. Steel Cases

Here’s a quick comparison that matters more than many realize:

• Brass cases are softer and expand better inside the chamber. They’re easier on your rifle and can be reloaded multiple times.
• Steel cases, on the other hand, are cheaper but harder on your gun. They don’t expand as well, which can cause faster wear and less consistency.

For serious practice or long-term use, brass is usually the smarter pick. It’s cleaner, smoother, and gives you more reliable performance session after session.

4. Go Bulk for Better Value

If you shoot often, buying in bulk is a no-brainer. You’ll save money, avoid stock shortages, and have plenty of rounds ready for the next range trip. Many shooters prefer to shop 5.56x45mm 55gr FMJ Ammo in bulk. It’s cost-effective and delivers steady quality for practice sessions.

Even better, you won’t have to compromise on reliability or accuracy. A well-manufactured FMJ load maintains consistent velocity and grouping, which helps you fine-tune your skills without wasting rounds.

5. Don’t Ignore Clean Shooting

Some ammo burns dirtier than others, leaving residue that can gum up your rifle. Clean-burning powder makes a big difference in how often you need to scrub your gun. It also keeps your cycling smooth, so you can focus on shooting instead of clearing jams.

If you shoot often, look for ammo that uses non-corrosive primers and clean propellant. It saves you time on maintenance and helps your rifle last longer.

6. Practice Like You Play

If you use your rifle for defense or competitions, try to train with ammo that feels similar to your real-use rounds. Consistency builds muscle memory.

Stick with the same bullet weight and similar velocity to what you’d use outside the range. The closer your practice setup is to the real deal, the better your performance under pressure.

Brass Kisses: Built for Range Confidence

Good range days start with great ammo. The right 5.56x45 ammo isn’t about chasing price tags — it’s about finding rounds that perform every single time. Brass-cased, 55-grain FMJ rounds strike that perfect balance between reliability, smooth cycling, and long-term value.

For shooters who care about clean performance and consistent accuracy, Brass Kisses hits the mark. Their 5.56 FMJ rounds are made for steady range sessions that keep your rifle happy and your aim sharper.

Reach out to BrassKisses.com and shop 5.56x45mm 55gr FMJ Ammo. Stock up, shoot often, and keep your skills locked in.

Questions You May Have

1. What is the best 5.56×45 ammo for range practice?

For most shooters, 55-grain brass-cased FMJ rounds are ideal for range sessions. They’re accurate, clean-shooting, and cost-effective for high-volume practice. Brass Kisses 5.56 FMJ ammo is a great choice for smooth cycling and consistent accuracy.

2. What’s the difference between 5.56×45 and .223 Remington ammo?

While they look similar, 5.56×45 NATO rounds are loaded to higher pressure. Always check your rifle’s barrel marking — firearms chambered for 5.56 can safely fire both 5.56 and .223, but .223-only rifles should not shoot 5.56 ammo.

3. Should I choose brass or steel cases for 5.56 practice ammo?

Brass cases are softer, reloadable, and easier on your gun’s internals. Steel cases are cheaper but can cause more wear and residue buildup. For frequent practice or long-term reliability, brass is the smarter pick.

4. Is buying 5.56 ammo in bulk worth it?

Absolutely. Buying 5.56×45 bulk ammo saves money per round, ensures consistency across lots, and keeps you stocked for extended range sessions. It’s a practical move for regular shooters who value both performance and savings.

5. Does 5.56 FMJ ammo shoot dirty?

That depends on the powder and primer used. Clean-burning, non-corrosive FMJ ammo produces less residue, keeping your rifle’s chamber and barrel cleaner.