Full disclosure, I am new to rifles and rifle calibers. Just got a Ruger AR-556. I have a very basic understanding of the differences between .223 and 5.56. With the scarcity of 5.56 ammo should I order this .223/5.56 ammo or try and find something else?

Question

Andrew B. · Answer

The Ruger AR556 is made for 5.56, so it will handle .223 no problem, as that is made at a lower pressure.So this ammo is perfectly fine. You don't want to do it the other way around though, as the extra pressure can cause excess wear and potentially catastrophic failure.

Paul F. · Answer

556 is a NATO designation, and 223 is the civilian version, there are some differences between the 2. Like 556 is a higher pressure round and could potentially damage a barell stamped 223. But because a 556 barrel is designed to stand up to higher pressure it can easily shoot 223.
And yes id say jump on it they will operate in your Ruger with no problems, i have a Ruger 556 MPR and it eats anything I feed it.
I would clean and lube the gun before you take it out to shoot, I know it probably came soaked in oil, but that's a preserving and not a proper gun lube, so get some balistol, hoppes, CLR,  or break through and get it cleaned and ready.

James G. · Answer

Richard, the Ruger 5.56 barrel is stamped 5.56 so it will safely fire both 5.56 and the lower pressure .223 ammunition without issue. Cheers and stay safe!

Paul F. · Answer

Here's the1st clean and lube video I ever watched by Hickok 45 he shows how to strip, clean, lube, and reassemble your new AR15, stay safe and have fun.
https://youtu.be/kwK3j615734

Trin K. · Answer

Hi, your Ruger 556 WILL HANDLE BOTH 5.56 and .223 fine. Generally, it is not recommended to shoot 5.56 am through .223 gun. However, .223 ammo is fine in 5.56 gun. The SS109 ammo you buying is green tips 5.56 ammo. I hope this helps!

Randy I. · Answer

the ruger is fine for both 5.56 and .223 ammo the 223 is a slightly lower pressure round that the 5.56

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