5.56 NATO vs .223 Remington: Can You Shoot Both?
January 8, 2026 · AmmoBin.com
5.56 NATO and .223 Remington look identical and chamber in the same rifles — but they are not the same cartridge. Getting this right matters for safety. Here is the clear version.
The key difference: chamber pressure
5.56 NATO is loaded to higher pressure than .223 Remington, and the 5.56 chamber has a slightly longer throat (leade). The practical rule every AR-15 owner should know follows below.
Which can you safely shoot?
- Rifle marked 5.56 NATO (or .223 Wylde): you can safely shoot BOTH 5.56 and .223.
- Rifle marked .223 Remington only: shoot ONLY .223 — firing 5.56 can create unsafe pressures.
- Not sure? Check the barrel stamp. When in doubt, shoot .223 or buy a .223 Wylde barrel, which handles both well and is accurate.
Ballistics and cost
Ballistically the two are very close at typical distances. For bulk practice, 5.56 55gr FMJ is usually the cheapest way to feed an AR-15, while match .223 loads cost more. Compare live prices for 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington before you stock up.
Frequently asked questions
Can I shoot .223 in a 5.56 rifle?
Yes. A 5.56 NATO (or .223 Wylde) chamber safely fires both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO.
Can I shoot 5.56 in a .223 rifle?
No. A rifle chambered only in .223 Remington should not fire 5.56 NATO, which is higher pressure and can be unsafe.
Is 5.56 or .223 cheaper?
Bulk 5.56 55gr FMJ is usually the cheapest option for high-volume AR-15 shooting. Match-grade .223 costs more.
Compare live prices
