![]() If you are reloading once-fired military brass, be sure to check for crimped primer pockets, and swage or ream them after sizing! I have found weight and capacity to be basically the same between the two, contrary to what you will read online. I talked with one case manufacturer about the differences between their 223 and 5.56 cases: only an additional annealing for 5.56. One of the best sources for load data is Hodgdon’s online Reloading Data Center:Ĭases are for the most part interchangeable between 223 and 5.56. Specifically, in the Hornady Handbook of Cartridge Reloading, there are three sections for relevant load data: Both cartridges were designed/optimized for 55 grain bulletsĢ23 Remington and 5.56 ammunition is almost identical in many cases, but there can be a slight difference between the two when it comes to load data.Same external case dimensions (shoulder transition may have different radius).Here are some similarities between .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO Ammunition: Dimensionally, these cartridges are essentially identical on the exterior with the exception of some bullet profiles used for 5.56 NATO ammunition. 5.56 ammunition will have a cannelured and crimped bullet, where 223 Remington ammunition may or may not have a cannelure or crimp. There may be other differences externally as well. Here’s a side by side comparison of the case rims for 223 Remington and 5.56 NATO: (click/tap to enlarge) On the case rim, you’ll notice that 5.56 military ammunition will have a crimp around the primer pocket (not the case for new 5.56 cases hand loaded in the civilian market). ![]() On the case rim, you’ll notice “223” stamped on 223 Remington brass, where 5.56 NATO brass may only have a date, initials (Ex: FC) and one or more symbols.There are some differences you’ll notice right off the bat between. Here’s an excerpt from my 223 -vs- 5.56 Deep-Dive:
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