The AR-15 platform has become one of the most flexible hunting tools on the market. With its modular design and growing lineup of chamberings, hunters can configure their AR for everything from varmints to big game. Whether you're piecing together a custom rifle from Moriarti Armaments or browsing a JAKL from Palmetto State Armory, choosing the right caliber is a critical first step.

Here’s a breakdown of the top AR-15 calibers for hunting in 2025, based on performance, availability, and field reliability.

.223 Wylde

The .223 Wylde chamber is designed to safely and accurately shoot both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO. It's a go-to choice for predator control and small game hunting.

• Ideal for: Coyotes, foxes, varmints

• Effective range: Up to 300 yards

• Advantages: High accuracy, low recoil, widely available ammo

• Notes: Legal for deer hunting in some states with appropriate bullet selection

5.56 NATO

Standardized for military use, the 5.56 NATO is common, affordable, and suitable for hunters targeting varmints or lighter game.

• Ideal for: Groundhogs, coyotes, small deer (where legal)

• Effective range: Up to 300 yards

• Advantages: Readily available, low recoil, fast follow-up shots

• Notes: Shot placement and proper bullet selection are key for ethical kills on medium game

6.5 Grendel

Designed for longer-range engagements, the 6.5 Grendel offers excellent accuracy, reduced wind drift, and superior energy retention at distance.

• Ideal for: Deer, antelope, hogs

• Effective range: 400–800 yards

• Advantages: Flat trajectory, high ballistic coefficient, moderate recoil

• Notes: Less common than 5.56, but well-supported by quality barrel and ammo options

.300 Blackout

Engineered for optimal performance in shorter barrels, .300 Blackout is favored in close-range hunting situations, especially in thick brush or for hog control.

• Ideal for: Hogs, whitetail deer

• Effective range: Up to 200 yards

• Advantages: Excellent energy transfer, suppressor-friendly, optimized for short barrels

• Notes: Available in both subsonic and supersonic loads for different use cases

.350 Legend

A straight-wall cartridge that meets legal requirements in many Midwestern states, the .350 Legend delivers solid terminal performance on larger game.

• Ideal for: Whitetail deer, hogs

• Effective range: Up to 250 yards

• Advantages: Low recoil, straight-wall cartridge compliant, effective knockdown power

• Notes: Particularly useful in states with caliber restrictions

How to Choose the Right AR-15 Hunting Caliber

Choosing a caliber depends on the game you're hunting, your typical shooting distances, and the legal requirements in your area.

Conclusion

The versatility of the AR-15 platform allows hunters to select a caliber tailored to their hunting environment and target species. Whether you're pursuing predators in open country or deer in thick woods, the right AR-15 build starts with the right caliber.

Take the time to evaluate your game, terrain, and shooting style. Then match that with a proven cartridge and quality upper receiver. Build a hunting rifle that’s ready for the field.

For reliable AR-15 components and complete hunting rifles, visit MoriartiArmaments.com.