Can I load 5.56 brass with .223 bullets:

[Geo9547]

I have around 200 pcs of 5.56 brass from my range. Can I use them to load .223 bullets using .223 load data, TAC powder and Small Rifle Primers? I shoot only Xtreme FMJ BT .223's out of my M&P 15 Sport that has 5.56 stamped on the barrel.
Thanks,
George

 

[epj]

Yes. As to the load data, always start below max and work up.

 

[W.E.G.]

Where do you get .223 bullets?

All I can find is .224.

 

[11e40]

that is correct diameter. .224. hth.

 

[AABEN]

224 is a 223 or 5.56x45. It sounds like you need to buy your self a Lyman reloading book or Lee if you are going to start reloading. If so read it and read it then start your reloading. You are in to a game that can get you or some one else hurt. GOOD LUCK

 

[Rule3]

If you are talking about this bullet, then yes. 223 Rem and it"s metric term 5.56 use the same diameter bullet which is actually .224. So good to go.

Jacketed

A rifle that is labeled 223 Remington uses 223 Remington only/

A barrel marked 5.56 can use either 223 Rem or 5.56/ Why? the 5.56 is generally a little hotter round and the brass is a little thicker making the inside of the case smaller so thepressure is higher.

So it depends on what rifle you are using. There is data for service rifles like the AR and data for bolt action.

 

[fla_gun]

+1
If your dies are for .223 Remington you are good.

 

[gregintenn]

The short answer is YES. It's all the same stuff.

If you want to argue that, get out your micrometer and camera and prove me wrong.

 

[gm272gs]

It sounds like you're new to this, so reading a reloading manual should be everyone's first start. Taking a reloading class is another good thing to add to that first reloading manual. There is nothing like getting an expert to walk you through each step, and show you how to do it. There is a lot of equipment you need in order to reload, and there is a lot of equipment marketed to reloaders that you don't need. Someone who has been reloading for 20 years (and still has their face and fingers) ought to be able to steer you in the right direction.

 

[gm272gs]

Also, you need different sets of dies for .223REM if you're planning on using them in a semi-auto, or a bolt-action.

If it's a semi-auto, pump, or lever-action, use RCBS AR-type small base dies (black box). The AR-series - I'm told - is going to gradually phase-out the old "standard" small-base dies.

If it's a bolt-action, use RCBS full-length dies (green box).

 

[moxie]

Also, you need different sets of dies for .223REM if you're planning on using them in a semi-auto, or a bolt-action.

If it's a semi-auto, pump, or lever-action, use RCBS AR-type small base dies (black box). The AR-series - I'm told - is going to gradually phase-out the old "standard" small-base dies.

If it's a bolt-action, use RCBS full-length dies (green box).

Not necessary.

I use plain RCBS FL dies, 2 die set, for my AR and they work great. No need to bother with small base or AR-type dies.

 

[Just another 22 shooter]

Not necessary.

I use plain RCBS FL dies, 2 die set, for my AR and they work great. No need to bother with small base or AR-type dies.

Totally agree. I have three different brands 223 fl dies I use for making ammo for my AR. None are small base dies. All produce quality reloads that function perfectly thru the Bushmaster.

 

[gm272gs]

Darn you guys. I listened to what RCBS said, and have both sets!

 

[11e40]

it really depends on how YOUR rifle is chambered. most rifles do not need small base dies if they are adjusted properly. ymmv.

 

[Rule3]

Also, you need different sets of dies for .223REM if you're planning on using them in a semi-auto, or a bolt-action.

If it's a semi-auto, pump, or lever-action, use RCBS AR-type small base dies (black box). The AR-series - I'm told - is going to gradually phase-out the old "standard" small-base dies.

If it's a bolt-action, use RCBS full-length dies (green box).

No you don't. I use regular old LEE dies for both. It's more helpful to have a case gauge like the Wilson so you can tell how your dies are sizing the shoulders of the brass Small base size the brass a little smaller. Be sure to lube the brass correctly and enough.

 

[rwsmith]

Exactly the same

.223 and 5.56 use EXACTLY the same bullets, there is no difference in the bullets.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Darn you guys. I listened to what RCBS said, and have both sets!

It gets worse, the AR dies are recommended for progressive presses so if you're not loading the 223's on a progressive press even that choice is incorrect (not that they are needed like said above)

RCBS has A LOT of different .223 die sets:
Standard FL Sizing Dies
AR Short Base Dies
X-Dies
Small Base Dies
Small Base X-Dies
Precision Mic Dies
Competition Dies
Gold Medal Match Bushing Dies

And maybe even more but who really knows!!!

 

[Mack]

FYI most 5.56 brass will have crimped primers and the crimp will have to be removed prior to repriming.

 

[NJM15]

I have around 200 pcs of 5.56 brass from my range. Can I use them to load .223 bullets using .223 load data, TAC powder and Small Rifle Primers? I shoot only Xtreme FMJ BT .223's out of my M&P 15 Sport that has 5.56 stamped on the barrel.
Thanks,
George

Ok to use .223 lead I do it regularly the only problem I had was that some 5.56 shells have the primers staked or crimped in place , they are a little harder to deprime but after you clean the pocket the new primers go in fairly easy

 

[Geo9547]

Thanks for all of your comments. I have been reloading brass stamped .223 for a while on a Lee Single Stage press with no problems. I have both the Lee and Lyman books and have read them several times. I just didn't know if it was a good idea to use the 5.56 brass. Juding from all your comments I guess I am good to go. Again thanks for all of your help. BTW, again, the bullets are Xtreme FMJ .223's (.224 dia).
George