Difference between .223 and 5.56???

[stanggt9050]

Is there a difference. I have a Bushmaster A3M4 with a .223/5.56 barrel. I have seen other Ar's with either a .223 or 5.56 barrel. I also note that the two types of ammo are available. Any clarification on this would be appreciated.
Thanks...

[TexasNativeDRJH]

The 5.56 is loaded a bit hotter, and I believe the case is a little tighter fit in the gun which could make it a bit more accurate.

At least thats what the guy at the gun store told me when I asked him. I've only ran .223 through mine, and I'm saving up for a bulk buy of XM193 5.56 ASAP.

[fastbolt]

http://www.winchester.com/lawenforcement/news/newsview.aspx?storyid=11

[stanggt9050]

http://www.winchester.com/lawenforcement/news/newsview.aspx?storyid=11

Well that about sums it up....
Thanks to all for posting, I am now informed...:cool:

[Merkavaboy]

This is the best information I've found regarding the differences between the .223 Rem and the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge:

http://www.thegunzone.com/556v223.html

[jmsfmtex]

Go to this web site http://ar15.com/ and then go to the ammo oracle. There is more information than you will want. Well maybe not but it is extremely beneficial.

Basically the 5.56 should not be shot from a .223 specific rifle. They do mention that it should not be an older rifle. The Mini-14 can handle the higher pressure that the 5.56 rd exerts.

A 5.56 rifle can take both 5.56 and .223 caliber rds.

This is very brief but I think you get the gist of it and when you read the oracle you will be very well informed.

Also the 5.56rd in a 5.56 rifle is more accurate than the .223rd in the same rifle.

[jaws57]

The Bushmaster website says their rifles can take either one. My XM-15 says 5.56 on the barrel and .223/5.56 on the lower reciever. So far Ive only shot the .223.

[AK_Stick]

Also the 5.56rd in a 5.56 rifle is more accurate than the .223rd in the same rifle.


Thats not always true, the cases are externally the same, so it'll just be the particular rifles preference.


My rifle, prefers 5.56 tap, over 223 tap, but 223 match loadings, over 5.56 pressure match loads