5.56 / 223rem Compatability Question

[joel1316]

Can I shoot 223rem ammo out of a rifle that is chambered for 5.56? All my varmint rifles shoots 223rem and now I'm going to buy an OLL upper. Most barrels that can be found for M4 type rifles are chambered for 5.56. I have a bunch of 223 ammo and really don't look forward to gettting more 5.56 ammo, when I have a bunch of 223 already. Either 223rem will shoot out of a 5.56 or I will just order an upper that is chambered for 223rem...

Thanks.

[nwnguy]

Short answer: yes

Long answer: http://www.ammo-oracle.com/body.htm#diff

[RangerRoy]

Shoot .223 from a 5.56 but not the other way around

Like he said, YES. But as a sensible advise, not the 5.56 from a .223 barrel. Although some would say they have done it and continues to do so, An armorer and qualified ballistic technician would advise you not to do so.

[joel1316]

nwnguy, thanks for the link, quite some reading to do... Basically it seems if I want more reliability, to go for 5.56. If I want accuracy, to get 223. I don't ever think I'll ever find myself going against zombies. Actually it may even see some varmint action, so it looks like I will go for the accuracy of 223...Thanks!