5.56 mm (.223) Components and ballistics

[Jim B.]

Could someone please describe the components (bullet weight, BC, velocity, etc.) of the current US 5.56mm (.223) ammunition?  I know there are a bunch of different types of military ammo out there - I am interested in finding the specifics on the type most commonly used or most commonly available as surplus or components.

Jim B.

[SAWgunner]

Well, when I was in, we used M855 SS109  62 Grain Steel Core.  The bullets have a green painted tip after they are loaded...but if they were not loaded at a government arsenal, they will not have a painted tip.  You can buy this stuff on the civilian market.  If it is real NATO spec, it will have crosshairs and the year on the headstamp.  NATO 5.56X45mm NATO is thicker brass than commercial .223, and for this reason, most AR15 manufacturers reccomend not using 5.56 NATO in .223 spec chambers because of the higher pressures.

My buddy in 3d BN said they are using a Hornady Match Bullet in their rifles now in Iraq.  Apparently the Attorney General Approved them in the office's interpretation on the Hague Convention.

If you have anymore questions, let me know.


SAW