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Can You shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56?

Can You Shoot 223 Ammo Out of a 5.56?

The debate about whether you can shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber has been ongoing for years, with some enthusiasts claiming that it’s perfectly safe, while others argue that it’s a recipe for disaster. In this article, we’ll delve into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.

What’s the Difference Between 223 and 5.56?

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Before we dive into the answer, it’s essential to understand the difference between 223 and 5.56. Both cartridges are essentially the same, with the main difference being the pressure rating. 223 Remington is a commercial cartridge with a maximum pressure rating of 55,000 PSI, while 5.56x45mm NATO is a military cartridge with a maximum pressure rating of 62,000 PSI.

Can You Shoot 223 Ammo Out of a 5.56 Chamber?

In short, yes, you can shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber. However, there are some important caveats to consider.

Why Can You Shoot 223 Ammo Out of a 5.56 Chamber?

There are a few reasons why you can shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber:

  • Bore diameter: The bore diameter of a 5.56 chamber is slightly larger than a 223 chamber, which means that 223 bullets will still fit and chamber properly.
  • Case length: The case length of 223 ammo is shorter than 5.56 ammo, which means that 223 cases will not protrude beyond the chamber.
  • Pressure: As mentioned earlier, 223 ammo has a lower pressure rating than 5.56 ammo. This means that the pressure generated by 223 ammo is within the safe operating range of a 5.56 chamber.

But Why Shouldn’t You Shoot 223 Ammo Out of a 5.56 Chamber?

While it’s technically possible to shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber, there are some reasons why you shouldn’t:

  • Safety: Shooting 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber can be dangerous, as the higher pressure generated by 5.56 ammo can cause the 223 case to rupture or the bullet to become unstable.
  • Accuracy: 223 ammo is designed for a specific chamber and barrel, and shooting it out of a 5.56 chamber can affect its accuracy.
  • Reliability: Shooting 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber can also affect the reliability of your firearm, as the chamber and barrel may not be designed to handle the lower pressure and velocity of 223 ammo.

What Are the Consequences of Shooting 223 Ammo Out of a 5.56 Chamber?

If you do decide to shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber, there are some potential consequences to consider:

  • Case rupture: The 223 case may rupture due to the higher pressure generated by the 5.56 chamber, which can cause damage to the firearm and potentially lead to injury.
  • Bullet instability: The bullet may become unstable due to the lower pressure and velocity, which can affect its accuracy and potentially cause damage to the target or surrounding area.
  • Chamber damage: The 5.56 chamber may become damaged due to the repeated use of 223 ammo, which can affect the accuracy and reliability of the firearm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it’s technically possible to shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber, it’s not recommended due to the potential safety risks and consequences. If you’re looking to shoot 223 ammo, it’s best to use a 223 chambered firearm or have your 5.56 chambered firearm modified specifically for 223 use.

Table: Comparison of 223 and 5.56 Cartridges

223 Remington5.56x45mm NATO
Case length1.76"1.83"
Case diameter0.378"0.378"
Pressure rating55,000 PSI62,000 PSI
Bullet diameter0.224"0.224"
Bullet length0.686"0.686"

Bullets:

• Always check your firearm’s manual to see if it’s recommended to shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber.
• If you do decide to shoot 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber, make sure to use a high-quality 223 ammo that’s designed for use in a 5.56 chamber.
• Always follow proper safety protocols when shooting, including wearing eye and ear protection and ensuring a safe shooting environment.

By understanding the differences between 223 and 5.56 cartridges and the potential consequences of shooting 223 ammo out of a 5.56 chamber, you can make an informed decision about whether to use this type of ammunition in your firearm.

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