Last reviewed: 2026-04-19 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Winchester 5.56x45mm NATO 62 grain penetrator full metal jacket sits at the intersection of contract-grade performance and civilian availability. Originally manufactured for military contract, this load features the green-tipped steel penetrator projectile — a design that places a hardened steel tip ahead of the lead core, wrapped in a thick copper jacket. Muzzle velocity clocks in at 3100 feet per second from a standard 20-inch barrel, producing 1323 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. The 62-grain bullet weight meets NATO M855 specifications, delivering improved barrier penetration over standard 55-grain loads while maintaining supersonic flight beyond 600 yards. Winchester loads this ammunition with non-corrosive powder and boxer primers in reloadable brass cases, stamped with military-style headstamps.
Load Profile
This is mil-spec 5.56 NATO ammunition, not .223 Remington. Chamber pressure runs higher than commercial .223 loads — verify your rifle is chambered for 5.56 NATO before firing. The penetrator design uses a steel tip insert to improve performance against intermediate barriers, though it does not meet armor-piercing classifications under federal law. Ballistic stability improves past 200 yards compared to 55-grain loads, making this a viable choice for extended-range practice and wind-reading drills.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56x45mm NATO |
| Bullet weight | 62 grains |
| Bullet type | Penetrator Full Metal Jacket |
| Muzzle velocity | 3100 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 1323 ft-lbs |
| Rounds/box | 600 (4 boxes of 150) |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Range & Target |
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
Some cases may exhibit minor cosmetic imperfections — dings or surface marks from bulk handling — that do not affect function or safety. These are contract overrun lots, stored in climate-controlled facilities and inspected before shipment. Browse the full Winchester 5.56×45 Ammo lineup for alternative grain weights and projectile styles.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if loaded; keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Verify current federal, state, and local laws regarding ammunition possession and transportation before ordering.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Prop 65). Store out of reach of children and wash hands after handling.
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