Ruger Mini14 Ammo .223 or 5.56x45... The Facts

Facts: From the Ruger Website..Can I shoot 5.56 NATO ammunition in my Mini-14 or Ranch Rifle? Answer: With the exception of the Mini-14 Target Rifle, which accepts only .223 Rem. ammunition, .223 Rem. and 5.56 NATO can be used in all Mini-14 rifles and Ranch Rifles. The chamber dimensions between the two cartridges are different. 5.56mm has a longer throat. This longer throat reduces pressures as compared to the .223 Remington. Consequently, .223 Remington ammunition is loaded to a lower pressure. The 5.56mm cartridge is loaded to higher pressures than the .223 Remington. Taking advantage of the longer throat, the 5.56mm can safely operate at a more powerful loading level.
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