.223 vs 556

NJM15 · #1 08-22-2014, 07:54 AM

Yesterday at the range I was firing American Eagle 5.56 and my own .223 reloads I alternately load one of each in the mag
you can hear and feel a huge difference in the power between the two
a member said the 5.56 rounds were sending a muzzle flash about 1 foot. I load at starting grs I shoot a Sport and after about 20 rounds I had to let the barrel cool of, you could barely touch it. Can any harm to the gun be done by this ?

JaPes · #2 08-22-2014, 09:23 AM

You're fine. No harm.

Chew · #3 08-22-2014, 01:23 PM

I would only start to worry if the handguard ignites or melts. Otherwise, you're good to go.

DR505 · #4 08-22-2014, 01:35 PM

Here is an interesting read discussing the pressure differences between .223 and 5.56 ammunition:

Quote:

Summary: While .223 Remington chamber dimensions and maximum pressures have been standardized by SAAMI, 5.56mm NATO dimensions and pressures have not. Partially because of this, ammunition pressures are measured differently between the two, and cannot be easily compared. Still, it is generally agreed upon that 5.56mm ammunition may be loaded to higher pressures.

5.56 vs .223 – What You Know May Be Wrong

I make no endorsement of the veracity of this information, but found it of interest.

CatSnipah · #5 08-22-2014, 01:36 PM

Wear a glove. Don't touch the barrel.

If the handguard starts smoking, stop.

Otherwise, carry on.