Charting Ammo Size and Performance

Early explorers often ventured into uncharted territory. Nowadays, those exploring the world of ammunition can arm themselves with knowledge that is off the charts.

A bullet caliber size chart shows a measurement in inches and millimeters of the most common rifle and handgun ammo cartridges. Information for each bullet caliber includes size, type, recoil primer and performance ballistics.

Before charting the ammo waters, an explanation of terms is in order.

Caliber is a measurement in inches of the internal width of a firearm’s barrel. It is the same as the width of the bullet and only refers to its size but not speed or power.

Although “cartridge” and “bullet” are sometimes used interchangeably, they are different. A cartridge describes the entire firing unit: brass case, primer, gun powder and projectile. A bullet, on the other hand, is an action projectile shot through the barrel.

A picture, or chart, is worth 1,000 words. In fewer words, here are the categories and specs for two of the more popular rifles and handguns: the .22LR and 9 mm. Velocity and energy expenditure vary based on the mass and type of bullet.

Caliber: .22LR
Bullet size: 30-40 grams
Type: Rimfire cartridge
Usage: prey less than 50 pounds
Velocity: 1,200-1,750 ft./sec.
Energy: 131-204 ft.-lbf.
Recoil: low
Bullet diameter: .223 in. (5.7 mm)-.2255 in.  (5.73 mm)
Case length: .613 in. (15.6 mm)
Overall length: 1.000 in. (25.4 mm)
Primer type: rimfire

Caliber: 9 mm
Bullet size: 115-147 grains
Usage: personal defense
Velocity: 1,180-2,010 ft./sec.
Energy: 355-538 ft.-lb.
Bullet diameter: .355in. (9.01mm)
Case length: .754 in. (19.15 mm)
Overall length: 1.169 in. (29.69 mm)
Primer type:Berdan or Boxer small pistol.