In the world of long-range shooting, the 6mm ARC and 224 Valkyrie cartridges stand out as exceptional choices, offering impressive accuracy and extended range capabilities. This comparison delves into their key characteristics, guiding you towards an informed decision.
Something about 6mm ARC Ammo
The 6mm Advanced Rifle Cartridge (6mm ARC) is a relatively recent addition to the world of ammunition, designed to offer enhanced performance for both military and civilian applications. Introduced by Hornady in 2020, the 6mm ARC was specifically developed for use in the AR-15 platform, providing shooters with a versatile cartridge that combines accuracy, long-range capabilities, and reduced recoil.
Cartridge
- Bullet diameter: 6mm (.243 in)
- Cartridge length: 2.260 in
- Case length: 1.490 in
- Case capacity: 2.20 cm3 (34.0 gr H2O)
- Shoulder angle: 30 degrees
- Maximum pressure: 52,000 psi
Ballistics
- Muzzle velocity: 2,550-2,850 fps
- Muzzle energy: 1,500-1,800 ft-lbs
- Effective range: 500-1,000 yards (depending on bullet weight and barrel length)
Accuracy
- Groupings of 0.5 MOA or less are common
Recoil
- Moderate recoil, similar to 6.5 Grendel
Barrel Life
- Barrel life is expected to be similar to 6.5 Grendel, which is typically around 5,000-7,000 rounds
Ammunition Availability
- Ammunition is becoming more widely available, but it is still not as common as some other cartridges
Applications
- Varmint hunting
- Long-range shooting
- Precision shooting
- Competition shooting
Something about 224 Valkyrie Ammo
The .224 Valkyrie is a relatively new rifle cartridge designed for precision and long-range shooting. Introduced by Federal Premium Ammunition in 2017, this caliber was developed to maximize the performance of the AR-15 platform, offering superior ballistics and accuracy at extended distances. The .224 Valkyrie is particularly popular among competitive shooters and long-range enthusiasts.
Specifications
- Case type: Rimless, bottlenecked
- Bullet diameter: 0.2245 in (5.70 mm)
- Neck diameter: 0.2560 in (6.50 mm)
- Shoulder diameter: 0.4031 in (10.24 mm)
- Base diameter: 0.421 in (10.70 mm)
- Case length: 1.630 in (41.40 mm)
- Overall length: 2.260 in (57.40 mm)
- Trim length: 1.600 in (40.60 mm)
- Maximum pressure (C.I.P.): 55,100 psi (380 MPa)
- Maximum pressure (SAAMI): 54,000 psi (372 MPa)
Available bullet weights:
- 60 grains
- 75 grains
- 88 grains
- 90 grains
Muzzle velocity:
- 2,700 to 3,300 fps (823 to 1,006 m/s)
Energy:
- 1,100 to 1,400 ft·lbf (1,496 to 1,890 J)
Ballistic coefficient:
- 0.265 to 0.545
Accuracy:
- The 224 Valkyrie is known for its excellent accuracy, with groups of 0.5 inches or less at 100 yards (91 meters) being common.
Barrel life:
- The 224 Valkyrie is a relatively new cartridge, so there is not a lot of data available on barrel life. However, based on similar cartridges, it is estimated that the 224 Valkyrie should have a barrel life of 3,000 to 4,000 rounds.
Applications:
- Varmint hunting
- Long-range shooting
- Precision shooting
- Competition shooting
A Quick .6mm ARC and .224 Valkyrie Comparison Table
| Feature | 6mm ARC | .224 Valkyrie |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet Diameter | .243 inches (6.17 mm) | .224 inches (5.56 mm) |
| Case Type | Rimless, bottleneck | Rimless, bottleneck |
| Overall Length | 2.26 inches (57.40 mm) | 2.26 inches (57.40 mm) |
| Maximum Pressure | 52,000 psi | 55,000 psi |
| Parent Case | 6.5 Grendel | 6.8 SPC (Special Purpose Cartridge) |
| Bullet Weight | Typically ranging from 90 to 110 grains | Commonly ranging from 60 to 90 grains |
| Muzzle Velocity | Velocity depends on specific load and barrel length | High velocities for extended range shooting |
| Purpose | Versatile for hunting and precision shooting | Precision and long-range shooting, hunting |
| Popular Platforms | AR-15 and similar platforms | AR-15 and similar platforms |
| Ballistic Performance | Known for excellent long-range ballistics | Flat trajectory, minimal wind drift |
| Common Uses | Medium-sized game hunting, precision shooting | Long-range target shooting, varmint hunting |
The Differences Between .6mm ARC and .224 Valkyrie Ammo
| Category | 6mm ARC | 224 Valkyrie |
|---|---|---|
| Velocity | 2,700 to 3,000 fps (823 to 914 m/s) | 2,700 to 3,300 fps (823 to 1,006 m/s) |
| Energy | 1,100 to 1,300 ft·lbf (1,496 to 1,762 J) | 1,100 to 1,400 ft·lbf (1,496 to 1,890 J) |
| Trajectory | Flatter trajectory | Flatter trajectory |
| Wind Drift | Less wind drift | More wind drift |
| Recoil | Moderate recoil | Low recoil |
| Accuracy | Excellent accuracy | Excellent accuracy |
| Barrel Life | 5,000 to 6,000 rounds | 3,000 to 4,000 rounds |
| Stopping power | Less stopping power | More stopping power |
| Ammunition Availability | Limited availability | More widely available |
| Applications | Varmint hunting, long-range shooting, precision shooting | Varmint hunting, long-range shooting, precision shooting, competition shooting |
Velocity
- 6mm ARC: The 6mm ARC typically achieves high velocities, especially with lighter bullets, contributing to its long-range performance.
- .224 Valkyrie: The .224 Valkyrie is designed for high velocities to maintain a flat trajectory at extended distances.
Energy
- 6mm ARC: With its larger bullet diameter, the 6mm ARC can deliver substantial energy downrange, making it effective for hunting and precision shooting.
- .224 Valkyrie: While slightly smaller in bullet diameter, the .224 Valkyrie is still capable of delivering significant energy, particularly at longer ranges.
Ballistics
| Muzzle Velocity | Weight (grains) | 100 yards | 300 yards | 500 yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6mm ARC | 80 | 2,700 – 2,800 | 2,300 – 2,400 | 1,900 – 2,000 |
| 6mm ARC | 90 | 2,600 – 2,700 | 2,200 – 2,300 | 1,800 – 1,900 |
| 6mm ARC | 100 | 2,500 – 2,600 | 2,100 – 2,200 | 1,700 – 1,800 |
| .224 Valkyrie | 80 | 2,750 – 2,850 | 2,350 – 2,450 | 1,950 – 2,050 |
| .224 Valkyrie | 90 | 2,650 – 2,750 | 2,250 – 2,350 | 1,850 – 1,950 |
| .224 Valkyrie | 100 | 2,550 – 2,650 | 2,150 – 2,250 | 1,750 – 1,850 |
| Muzzle Energy | Weight (grains) | 100 yards | 300 yards | 500 yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6mm ARC | 80 | 1,350 – 1,450 | 850 – 900 | 550 – 600 |
| 6mm ARC | 90 | 1,350 – 1,450 | 850 – 900 | 550 – 600 |
| 6mm ARC | 100 | 1,300 – 1,400 | 800 – 850 | 525 – 575 |
| .224 Valkyrie | 80 | 1,375 – 1,475 | 875 – 925 | 575 – 625 |
| .224 Valkyrie | 90 | 1,375 – 1,475 | 875 – 925 | 575 – 625 |
| .224 Valkyrie | 100 | 1,325 – 1,425 | 825 – 875 | 525 – 575 |
Trajectory
- 6mm ARC: Known for a flat trajectory, the 6mm ARC is designed to minimize bullet drop over extended distances.
- .224 Valkyrie: Renowned for its flat trajectory, the .224 Valkyrie excels at maintaining a straight path, reducing the need for significant holdovers.
Wind Drift
- 6mm ARC: The 6mm ARC is relatively less affected by wind drift due to its heavier bullets.
- .224 Valkyrie: While still effective in windy conditions, the .224 Valkyrie may experience slightly more wind drift, especially with lighter bullets.
Recoil
- 6mm ARC: Generally, the 6mm ARC has manageable recoil, contributing to improved shot-to-shot accuracy.
- .224 Valkyrie: The .224 Valkyrie also features moderate recoil, providing shooters with a comfortable shooting experience.
Accuracy
- 6mm ARC: Known for its accuracy, the 6mm ARC is often chosen for precision shooting applications.
- .224 Valkyrie: Similarly, the .224 Valkyrie is recognized for its accuracy, especially at longer ranges.
Barrel Life
- 6mm ARC: Generally considered to have a reasonable barrel life, but this can vary based on factors like the specific load and shooting conditions.
- .224 Valkyrie: Barrel life can be a consideration, with some shooters noting potential barrel wear, especially when using hotter loads.
Stopping Power
- 6mm ARC: With a larger bullet diameter, the 6mm ARC can provide effective stopping power, making it suitable for hunting medium-sized game.
- .224 Valkyrie: While slightly smaller, the .224 Valkyrie still offers sufficient stopping power for varmint hunting and medium-sized game.
Ammunition Availability
- 6mm ARC: Availability of ammunition has increased since its introduction, with various loads catering to different needs.
- .224 Valkyrie: Federal Premium initially introduced the .224 Valkyrie, and while ammunition availability has improved, it may not be as widespread as some more established calibers.
Applications
- 6mm ARC: Well-suited for precision shooting, hunting medium-sized game, and other applications requiring a balance of accuracy and power.
- .224 Valkyrie: Ideal for precision long-range shooting, varmint hunting, and applications where a flat trajectory is crucial.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary purpose of the 6mm ARC?
A1: The 6mm ARC is designed as a versatile cartridge suitable for both precision shooting and hunting. It offers a good balance between long-range accuracy and terminal ballistics, making it effective for various applications.
Q2: Is the 6mm ARC suitable for hunting?
A2: Yes, the 6mm ARC is suitable for hunting medium-sized game. Its larger bullet diameter contributes to effective terminal performance, making it popular among hunters.
Q3: How does the .224 Valkyrie perform in terms of long-range shooting?
A3: The .224 Valkyrie is specifically designed for long-range shooting. It features a flat trajectory and minimal wind drift, making it well-suited for precision shooting at extended distances.
Q4: What is the main advantage of the .224 Valkyrie?
A4: The .224 Valkyrie’s main advantage is its ability to maintain high velocities over long distances, providing a flatter trajectory and improved performance at extended ranges compared to other AR-15 cartridges.
Q5: Is the .224 Valkyrie suitable for varmint hunting?
A5: Yes, the .224 Valkyrie is often used for varmint hunting due to its flat trajectory and accuracy, making it effective for targeting small to medium-sized game.
Q6: How does the recoil of the 6mm ARC compare to other cartridges?
A6: The 6mm ARC generally has manageable recoil, contributing to improved shot-to-shot accuracy. It is designed to be comfortable for shooters while maintaining effectiveness.
Q7: Are there specific platforms designed for the 6mm ARC or .224 Valkyrie?
A7: Both cartridges are typically chambered in AR-15 platforms. Several manufacturers offer rifles and uppers specifically designed for these cartridges, but they can also be adapted to existing AR-15 rifles with appropriate barrel changes.
Wrap Up
6mm ARC and 224 Valkyrie are both great cartridge choices for long-range shooting. The 6mm ARC is known for its excellent accuracy and barrel life, while the 224 Valkyrie is known for its high velocity and stopping power.
Ultimately, the best cartridge for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
References:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/6mm_ARC
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/.224_Valkyrie
Last Updated on December 7, 2023 by Cecil B. DeMille
Cecil B. DeMille is a SF weapons sergeant ( E-5 or above) with a military occupational specialty (MOS) code 18B who specializes in all weapons used in in U.S. Army Special Forces (SF).
