In virtue of the convenient construction and environmental protection, the grouting sleeve connected precast concrete (PC) column gradually replaces the traditional reinforced concrete column as the main vertical load-bearing structural member. Nevertheless, under the aggravation of deliberate and accidental explosions, there is a lack of research on the blast resistance of PC columns, especially the residual capacity which is closely related to the collapse of building structures. In this study, the post-blast residual axial capacity of PC and RC columns was assessed and compared on the basis of the high-fidelity numerical simulation. Firstly, the reliability of the finite element analysis method in the explosion and axial compressive stages was verified by reproducing the explosion test of PC columns and post-blast axial compressive test of RC columns conducted by the authors, respectively. Then, based on Chinese structural specifications, the actual PC and RC columns were designed, and the corresponding finite element models were established. Furthermore, the residual capacity of the two types of columns was analysed and compared under different scaled distances and designed basis threats demanded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It derives that, PC columns showed more excellent blast resistance, namely slighter lateral deformation and greater residual load-bearing capacities, compared with the RC columns. Finally, the practical threat-based design recommendations for PC and RC columns were put forward.