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5.56 vs .223

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    Welldoya

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    I just ordered a Smith and Wesson Sport and was looking around the Internet for some ammo. I'll probably buy a case of 500 to start with.
    Seems the best prices are on .223.
    I always thought 5.56 and .223 were the same but after doing a lot of reading it sounds like the 5.56 is loaded to higher pressures. So it's safe to shoot .223 in a 5.56 chamber but risky to do the reverse.
    Then others are saying that the differences are negligible.
    Thoughts on this subject?
     
    madeSICC88

    madeSICC88

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    If 5.56 is stamped on your barrel then do it, if not then don't. I have also read both ways and just decided to stick to whatever the manufacturer of the barrel says. But I usually buy .223 anyways as well since it's usually a little cheaper,
     
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    Welldoya

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    It is stamped 5.56 so I was planning on using .223 when I find a bargain on it.
    It's my understanding that the 5.56 chamber is slightly larger. Will I lose accuracy when using .223?
     
    FrankT

    FrankT

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    you are correct it is not a good idea to shoot 556 in a 223 but ok the shoot both in a 556. You accuracy will not be as good in a 556 shooting 223 (larger tolerance) but it is safe. Also the 1-7 twist will shoot heavier pills than the 1-9 twist so I always get the 1-7 maybe 1-8

    This is opposite w the 308 factory ammo is higher pressure than NATO surplus ammo.
     
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    Welldoya

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    I got an incredible price on the Sport and it is a 1 in 9" twist so will have to live with it.
    It's just going to be a plinker and "fun gun" so 55s and 62s will be fine. Whatever is cheap.
     
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