This comparison concerns two different types of ammunition used in the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, a common round for the AR-15 platform and other similar rifles. One type features a green-painted tip, indicating a steel penetrator core within a lead and copper jacket. The other is designed with a hollow cavity in its nose, promoting expansion upon impact.
The performance characteristics of these ammunition types have significant implications for their intended applications. The penetrator design enhances armor penetration, while the expanding projectile is designed to increase energy transfer and tissue damage, potentially leading to quicker incapacitation. Understanding the different functionalities is critical for responsible ammunition selection, informed by ethical, legal, and practical considerations. Historical development of these projectiles reflects evolving military and civilian needs, including hunting regulations and defensive scenarios.