5.56 vs 223

[Guest Major Pain]

Have searched and read several opinions on the difference between 5.56 and 223 ammo and still confused. The main opinion is don't shoot 5.56 in weapon marked 223 but 223, which has a little less pressure is ok to shoot in gun marked 5.56. My problem is both Ruger mini14 and Colt H-bar that I have are marked 223. I have 2k rds of 5.56 and don't want to hurt my babies, is it safe to shoot?--MP

[Reservoir Dog]

Look on the barrel (near the muzzle) of your Colt. It probably has "5.56mm" marked on it. That will tell you that the chamber is set to 5.56 specs. Many Colts are marked .223 on the receiver, but actually have a 5.56 barrel/chamber.

As far as the Ruger, I have heard that it is OK to shoot 5.56. Someone correct me if that is wrong.

[Guest Bronker]

+1 what Res said.

I'll take dibs on that ammo if you decide against it!

[Guest Major Pain]

I did find the markings on the Colt. Thanks that makes me feel better. I wasn't to concerned about the mini 14 because I've already run 1k thru it with no problems. I did find a site where Ruger said 5.56 was ok.--MP