which bullet self defense 223

Seeing as to how you stated it was for self defense then you need to think what if only one bullet finds its target as the target may be firing back at you. Bearing this in mind I would opt for a very explosive varmit bullet such as the Sierra 55 gr. Blitzking. It is an inherently very accurate bullet down range and highly volatile. Even if you didn't hit what are deemed to be the vital organs the sheer amount of tissue damage from one of these creates a whole new concept of just what constitutes a terminal or disabling strike. This bullet will fly like a dart in a 1 in 9 twist barrel behind a nice stout dose of H335, BLC-2, Varget, or AA2230 just to mention a few .

Food for Thought

How is bullet selection for this scenario different from bullet selection for hunting a man-sized deer?

(I'm not saying it's different or it's not. Just something to think about.)

You don't hunt a deer with FMJ or varmint bullets.

Overpenetration isn't a potential liability when shooting whitetail.

Overpenetration isn't a potential liability when shooting whitetail.

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Not to mention that in a self defense scenario we are not trying to KILL anyone, we afe trying to STOP them.

Overpenetration isn't much of an issue with .223/5.56 in general.

Those advocating varmint bullets are creeping into under penetration territory.

75gr Hornady BTHP, like the TAP.

I'd think 55gr Vmax would be a good stopper with minimal overpenetration...

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This is what I have mags full of for HD.

65gr sierra gameking holds together well
itsmy choice for 1in9'' twists

How is bullet selection for this scenario different from bullet selection for hunting a man-sized deer?

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You aren't going to pass up on a shot when you can't center your cross hairs on a broadside heart/lung shot.

You're not going to potentially shoot through a heavy shoulder bone, unless you're shooting someone in the back in self defense.

You're probably not going to get a Texas heart shot on a guy in self defense, either. And if so, you probably have time for more than one shot.

You're not worried about meat damage.

You have to consider over-penetration.

Regarding the military, I think they would probably still use FMJ 5.56 for general issue, even without the Hague convention. People who are being shot at often find cover. Barrier and light vehicle penetration is key.

You're probably not going to get a Texas heart shot on a guy in self defense, either. And if so, you probably have time for more than one shot.

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Now that's quite the mental picture, there!