5.56 load info

[deafdogdief]

I gather from hunting around online that this is a common question. I looked at several threads on the forum and didn't see this asked...
I have info on .223 loads and no 5.56. It seems like I could have a problem loading 5.56 with .223 data. I am using mixed headstamps (lake city and .223 both, along with others). Planning on using Varget with 55 grain Hornady soft points. Any SME here that could chime in?

[Luke E.]

 I load mixed 5.56 and .223 brass exactly the same for blaster ammo but i'm not near max load. 5.56 brass is a bit thicker netting less case volume so you will need to be careful with any loads near max. If you're going for accuracy loads then you will benefit from sorting them because it will make a little difference. I did load some test rounds in mixed brass one time and the 5.56 brass consistently started showing high pressure signs before the .223 did so there is cause for caution when working up towards max. If you're going to continue to load mixed brass my suggestion would be to work your load up using only 5.56 brass and then you know that the larger volume .223 brass will be fine. I know some really sort their brass seriously but I will tell you this, Another member and I load and work up loads together most of the time and we worked up a "blaster ammo" load using pull down mil-surp powder, pulled bullets and mixed brass and he can somewhat regularly shoot half inch groups at 100yds through his Rem700 bolt gun.

[runco]

Yea loading Lake City brass is little tricky due to the thicker brass.  Since I use military powder bought from David two years ago, I just follow that recipe, so far no problem.

[deafdogdief]

Thanks, guys. I haven't ventured into the rifle cartridges yet. I primed a few for test loads and wanted to get some input. I plan on loading a charge just enough to cycle the action. Don't really intend on moving to a hotter load for a while.

[Guest livefreeordie1]

Be sure and check the length.  Once fired .223/5.56 almost always needs trimming.

[gregintenn]

223=556 as far as reloading goes. Start low and work up carefully.

[Jct1911]

New here but not to Varget and .223/5.56. As always work up but have found best results near max in LC brass with 55grn FMJ's in multiple rifles. Uniformity in case length and weight will pay off.


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