The Hornady 5.56 NATO 55 GR CX Superformance delivers a dramatic leap in velocity and terminal performance, giving hunters and shooters a decisive edge without any of the typical trade-offs associated with high-performance ammunition.
- Copper Alloy eXpanding (CX) bullet ensures uniform, controlled expansion on impact
- Achieves 100–200 fps faster than conventional loads of the same caliber
- Retains 95% or more of its original weight for deep, consistent penetration
- Progressive Superformance propellants add velocity without increasing chamber pressure
- Minimal temperature sensitivity delivers reliable performance in hot or cold conditions
- Reduced fouling and muzzle blast keep your rifle cleaner and more comfortable to shoot
Who This Is For
This load is ideal for varmint hunters, predator callers, and range shooters who demand maximum velocity and reliable terminal performance from their AR-15 or other 5.56 NATO-chambered rifles. The lead-free CX bullet also makes it a strong choice for hunters in areas requiring non-toxic projectiles, where consistent expansion and weight retention are non-negotiable.
Specifications
| Brand | Hornady |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO |
| Bullet Weight | 55 Grains |
| Bullet Type | CX (Copper Alloy eXpanding) |
| Muzzle Velocity | ~3,240 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | ~1,282 ft-lbs |
| Rounds Per Box | 20 |
| Casing Material | Brass |
| Primer Type | Boxer, Non-Corrosive |
| Weight Retention | 95%+ |
| Series | Superformance |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hornady CX bullet legal for hunting in California?
Yes. The Hornady CX (Copper Alloy eXpanding) bullet is a lead-free, non-toxic projectile, making it fully compliant with California's Proposition 65 and the state's requirement for non-lead ammunition when hunting wildlife. Always verify current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations before your hunt to ensure compliance.
Will this 5.56 NATO ammunition chamber safely in a .223 Remington rifle?
It depends on your firearm. A rifle with a true 5.56 NATO chamber can safely fire both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition. However, a rifle marked solely as .223 Remington has a tighter SAAMI-spec chamber and may experience elevated pressure when firing 5.56 NATO rounds. Always confirm your rifle's chamber specification with the manufacturer before using 5.56 NATO loads in a .223-marked firearm.
How does the CX bullet perform compared to traditional cup-and-core or bonded bullets?
The Hornady CX bullet is machined from a solid copper alloy, which gives it superior weight retention (95%+) and more consistent expansion across a wider range of impact velocities compared to many cup-and-core designs. Unlike standard hollow-point or soft-point bullets, the CX does not shed its core, making it especially effective for medium-sized game and varmints where deep, straight-line penetration is critical.
- Caliber:
- 556 NATO
- Bullet Weight:
- 55 GR
- Bullet Type:
- CX
- Type:
- Rifle Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 20
- Case Quantity:
- 200
- Lead Free:
- No