The 25-45 Sharps is a rifle cartridge developed by Sharps Rifle Company in 2012. Based on the 5.56x45mm NATO case, the 25-45 Sharps features a .257 caliber (6.5mm) bullet. It is designed to provide improved performance over the 5.56 NATO, particularly in terms of terminal ballistics for hunting applications.
The cartridge typically fires a 87-grain (5.64 grams) bullet at velocities around 3,000 feet per second (914 meters per second). This results in enhanced energy transfer and effective range on medium game compared to the smaller 5.56mm bullet.
The 25-45 Sharps is aimed at hunters who typically pursue deer-sized game but do not want to upgrade to a larger hunting rifle. Its design allows it to be used in standard AR-15 rifles with only a change of the barrel, making conversion relatively simple and cost-effective. It retains the compatibility with the magazines, bolts, and receivers designed for 5.56mm NATO rifles, which adds to its appeal.
Overall, the 25-45 Sharps offers a balance of higher terminal performance in a familiar platform without significant increases in recoil or significant changes to existing firearm configurations.