223/5.56

[gunman05]

Hey guys,

So I was asked a question I don't know the answer to. Well I dunno if it was so much a question but a comment from a "know it all" (family member) and I can't disput it...

He is saying you can't/ shouldn't shoot 5.56 from a 223 caliber gun, but it's ok to shoot 223 from a 5.56. Saying the pressure from a 5.56 load could/would damage the barrel. I always thought it was the same round one was just a military metric round but was good to go. Is there any harm in shooting a 5.56 round from a 223 caliber gun? Long term would it cause an issue?

Also if reloading 223 can you use 5.56 brass? Are the loads or pressuers different?

Thanks guys

[peacedivision]

The general rule is;

5.56 chamber - 5.56 or 223
223 chamber - 223 only

[klewan]

If you reload, you can shoot whatever, as long as you don't go to maximum powder loads. It's only when you have max pressure, does it make a difference in which cartridge you can use. But if you buy factory ammo, no easy way tell if it's max or not, so follow peacedivision's advice....

[gunman05]

Wow I never would have known that... You guys taught me something.I can accept he was right, thanks.

Both of my ARs are 5.56 barrels and I ussually buy 223, so all is good their!

[JMP]

Yeah, 5.56 generally denotes NATO spec. I have never shot a "5.56" from my .223, but I can generate projectiles >3,200fps from my .223 chamber with no pressure signs. It's a matter of judgement from gun to gun. For factory ammo, stick w/ .223 or what your gun is chambered for. Some bolt guns now are made to work with NATO spec 5.56.

With 7.62/.308, the opposite is true.

[Fishslayer]

http://www.accurateshooter.com/cartridge-guides/223rem/

[xfer42]

.223 Wylde chamber is ok for both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammo.

[gunman05]

Thanks for the info.