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musketjon
10-07-2015, 04:17 PM
Can 5.56 and. 223 use the same die set for reloading? Can the brass be intermingled or must it be segregated?
Thanks
Jon
Prince Humperdink
10-07-2015, 06:39 PM
The only difference between the brass is that the 5.56 military brass has a thicker wall.All of my brass is mixed together,and no problem in a .223.
I use the same die,I don't discriminate.lol
Prince Humperdink
10-07-2015, 06:42 PM
here is some info I found to explain,and is for loaded ammo.
http://bearingarms.com/223-remington-vs-556-nato-what-you-dont-know-could-hurt-you/
timshufflin
10-07-2015, 06:48 PM
Hmm, same difference as 7.62 NATO and .308, thicker case wall on the NATO.
canes7
10-07-2015, 07:07 PM
Yes. Same dies.
MrTwistedFock
10-07-2015, 10:36 PM
What I learned about it is pretty simple.

You can shoot either of the two types if its loaded, factory ammo out of either a 5.56 NATO chambered AR OR is chambered in one of the hybrid, high power chambers like the Wylde chamber that is default with Rock River Arms National Match ARs or White Oak Armament NM AR-15 uppers.

But you CANNOT shoot factory ammo chambered in 5.56 NATO factory ammo out of an AR-15 chambered in a tighter .223 chambered AR-15. The pressures are too high and you will wear out your barrel faster and even damage the rifle.

For reloading, it does not matter. You can take once fired 5.56 NATO brass, resize it in a .223 full sizing die and its good to go.
musketjon
10-07-2015, 10:53 PM
Thanks guys. Now the question I forgot: standard or small base sizing dies?
Thanks
Jon
MrTwistedFock
10-07-2015, 11:15 PM
I thought you hated AR-15s? What is up with the interest in 5.56/.223?
Orlando
10-08-2015, 05:51 AM
Jon doesnt want to admit it here but he has come over to the dark side:)
canes7
10-08-2015, 08:38 AM
I started with the RCBS X-Die, it didn't take long until I didn't like it for a variety of reasons. I really like my Dillon carbide die. Is big $ but it'll last a gajillion rounds. Many do not like the SB dies saying it over works the brass and is not necessary. If you are buying once fired brass then there is a good chance it was machine gun fired. If that's the case then you'll be glad you bought the SB die.