Will 5.56 Shoot .223? Understanding the Differences and Compatibility
Can a 5.56 Chamber Shoot .223? Yes, a rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO can safely fire .223 Remington ammunition. Since .223 operates at a lower pressure and fits into the longer-throated 5.56 chamber, it will function without issue. However, shooters may notice a slight decrease in velocity and accuracy due to the extra freebore in […]
Can a 5.56 Chamber Shoot .223?
Yes, a rifle chambered in 5.56 NATO can safely fire .223 Remington ammunition. Since .223 operates at a lower pressure and fits into the longer-throated 5.56 chamber, it will function without issue. However, shooters may notice a slight decrease in velocity and accuracy due to the extra freebore in the chamber.
Key Considerations When Shooting .223 in a 5.56 Rifle:
- Slightly reduced velocity and accuracy compared to dedicated .223 chambers.
- Potentially softer recoil due to lower chamber pressures.
- Increased versatility since 5.56 chambers can handle both rounds.
Can a .223 Chamber Shoot 5.56?
No, it is not recommended to fire 5.56 NATO in a rifle chambered solely for .223 Remington. Due to the higher pressures and longer bullet jump of the 5.56 round, firing it in a .223 chamber can result in excessive pressure, leading to:
- Increased wear and tear on the firearm.
- Potential pressure spikes that could damage the rifle or cause malfunctions.
- Extraction and cycling issues in some rifles.
SAAMI Warnings & Manufacturer Recommendations
The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) strongly advises against using 5.56 NATO in .223 Remington chambers due to pressure concerns. Some modern .223 rifles are designed with stronger chambers that can withstand occasional 5.56 use, but unless your manufacturer specifically states compatibility, it is best to avoid it.
What About Wylde Chambers?
An alternative option is the .223 Wylde chamber, a hybrid design that safely accommodates both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington rounds. Developed by Bill Wylde, this chamber balances the higher pressures of 5.56 while maintaining the accuracy potential of .223.
Benefits of a .223 Wylde Chamber
- Increased accuracy over standard 5.56 chambers.
- Safe operation with both .223 and 5.56 rounds.
- Versatility for different applications.
For shooters who want flexibility without safety concerns, a rifle chambered in .223 Wylde is an excellent option.
Conclusion: What Should You Use?
If your rifle is marked 5.56 NATO, you can safely shoot both 5.56 and .223 ammunition. However, if your rifle is marked .223 Remington, you should only use .223 rounds to avoid overpressure risks.
Final Takeaways:
5.56 NATO chambers can safely fire .223 Remington.
.223 Remington chambers should not fire 5.56 NATO.
.223 Wylde chambers offer the best of both worlds.
Understanding these differences ensures both safety and performance when choosing ammunition for your AR-15. Always check your rifle’s barrel markings and manufacturer guidelines before loading up.
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