If you are a gun owner, you might have asked yourself this question at some point: can I shoot 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700? The answer is not straightforward, as there are a few things to consider before loading your rifle. In this article, we will explore the differences between the .223 and 5.56 cartridges, the compatibility of the Remington 700 with each, and the potential risks involved in using the wrong ammunition.
In this article, we will explore the differences between 5.56 and .223 cartridges, their similarities, and whether it’s safe to shoot 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700 rifle.
Table of Contents
- What are 5.56 and .223 cartridges?
- What is the .223 Remington Cartridge?
- Differences between 5.56 and .223 cartridges
- Similarities between 5.56 and .223 cartridges
- Can I shoot 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700?
- What is the Difference Between .223 and 5.56?
- Is it safe to shoot 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700?
- What are the risks of shooting 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700?
- How can I avoid shooting 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700?
- What should I do if I accidentally shoot 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700?
- Should I use 5.56 or .223 for my rifle?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is the .223 Remington Cartridge?
The .223 Remington is a centerfire rifle cartridge developed in the 1950s by Remington Arms. It is based on the .222 Remington Magnum case, but with a shorter neck and a slightly larger case body. The .223 Remington is widely used for varmint hunting, target shooting, and self-defense. It is a popular choice among AR-15 enthusiasts, as well as bolt-action rifles like the Remington 700.
Differences between 5.56 and .223 cartridges
One of the significant differences between 5.56 and .223 cartridges is their pressure levels. 5.56 cartridges have higher pressure levels than .223 cartridges. This is because the 5.56 cartridges are designed for military use, and they need to function efficiently in automatic weapons.
Another difference between the two cartridges is their chamber sizes. The 5.56 cartridge has a longer chamber throat than the .223 cartridge. This means that the 5.56 cartridge can withstand higher pressure levels than the .223 cartridge.
Similarities between 5.56 and .223 cartridges
Despite their differences, 5.56 and .223 cartridges have some similarities. For instance, they have the same diameter and shape, and they both use the same bullets. This means that you can load a .223 bullet into a 5.56 cartridge and vice versa.
Can I shoot 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700?
Yes, you can shoot 5.56 in your .223 Remington 700 rifle. This is because the .223 Remington 700 rifle is designed to handle both cartridges. However, before firing the 5.56 cartridge, you need to understand the risks involved.
What is the Difference Between .223 and 5.56?
On the surface, the .223 and 5.56 cartridges look very similar. They both have a bullet diameter of .224 inches, and their overall length and weight are comparable. However, there are a few key differences that can affect their compatibility in certain firearms.
The first difference is the chamber pressure. The 5.56 cartridge is loaded to a higher maximum pressure than the .223 Remington. While the .223 Remington has a maximum pressure of 55,000 PSI, the 5.56 NATO has a maximum pressure of 62,000 PSI. This means that firing a 5.56 cartridge in a .223 Remington chamber can put extra stress on the rifle’s bolt, extractor, and chamber.
The second difference is the throat length. The throat is the area of the chamber where the bullet sits before it engages the rifling. The 5.56 NATO has a longer throat than the .223 Remington, which allows it to handle longer, heavier bullets. Firing a .223 Remington cartridge in a 5.56 NATO chamber can cause the bullet to engage the rifling too soon, increasing pressure and reducing accuracy.
Is it safe to shoot 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700?
Firing 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700 rifle is generally safe. However, it’s crucial to note that the two cartridges have different pressure levels, and firing a 5.56 cartridge in a .223 Remington 700 rifle could lead to some risks.
What are the risks of shooting 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700?
One of the significant risks of shooting 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700 rifle is the potential for increased wear and tear. This is because the 5.56 cartridge generates higher pressure levels than the .223 cartridge. The increased wear and tear could lead to issues such as cracked or damaged barrels, damaged bolt lugs, and damaged receivers.
Another risk of shooting 5.56 in a .223 Remington 700 rifle is the potential for accuracy issues. This is because the two cartridges have different chamber sizes, which could affect the trajectory of the bullet.
How can I avoid shooting 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700?
To avoid shooting 5.56 in your .223 Remington 700 rifle, you need to carefully inspect your ammunition before loading it. The 5.56 cartridges are usually marked with a NATO cross, while the .223 cartridges have no marking. Ensure that you read the markings on the cartridge before loading it.
Benefits of Shooting .223 in a 5.56 Chamber
While it is not recommended to shoot 5.56 cartridges in a .223 Remington chamber, there are some benefits to shooting .223 Remington cartridges in a 5.56 NATO chamber. One of the main advantages is increased accuracy, as the longer throat allows the bullet to travel farther before engaging the rifling. This can result in less pressure and more consistent bullet velocity, leading to tighter groups on target.
What should I do if I accidentally shoot 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700?
If you accidentally shoot 5.56 in your .223 Remington 700 rifle, you need to inspect your rifle for any damage. Look out for signs of wear and tear, such as damaged or cracked barrels, damaged bolt lugs, and damaged receivers.
How to Identify Your Rifle’s Chamber
To determine the chamber specifications of your Remington 700 rifle, you can check the barrel markings or consult the owner’s manual. The markings on the barrel will typically include the cartridge designation, such as “.223 Remington” or “5.56x45mm NATO.” If you are still unsure, take your rifle to a qualified gunsmith for inspection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question “can I shoot 5.56 in my .223 Remington 700?” depends on the chamber specifications of your rifle. While the .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges look similar, they are not interchangeable in all cases. Firing a 5.56 cartridge in a .223 Remington chamber can put your rifle at risk of malfunction or failure, potentially causing injury or death. Always consult the owner’s manual or a qualified gunsmith to determine the compatibility of your rifle with different cartridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 5.56 cartridge has higher pressure levels and a longer chamber throat than the .223 cartridge.
Yes, a .223 Wylde chamber is designed to handle both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO cartridges.
The potential for increased wear and tear and accuracy issues.
You can check the barrel markings or consult the owner’s manual to determine the chamber specifications of your rifle.
It depends on your intended use. For hunting or target shooting, .223 is an excellent choice, while 5.56 is better for military or law enforcement purposes
Peter B Brewster is an avid writer who loves to share his knowledge about scopes, binoculars, mounts, sights, and other related products. He has been writing for several years and has gained a reputation for his expertise in the field.