Thread: Real world .223 use

Im going to get myself a new Ar15 incase all this E Cat stuff blows up, and also just because i want another. I have used ar15s for hunting before but with longer barrels (18-20"). I am looking at getting a 14.5" .223. Load data is based on 24" barrels so was wondering what experience you guys have had running shorter barrelled .223s?

target: hinds + odd spiker within 150m. not within the roar and yes i am experienced.

I use 64gr Sierra projectiles without any problems in my 16"AR15

These would easily take care of Deer at 150m if you do your part.

Cheers
Pete

if you use a well constructed pill with a fast powder and confident in taking head and neck shots i don't think you would have any problems. Id be cautious with taking body shots but im sure it can be done

probably going to be using factory ammo. this stuff has worked well in the past

Deadeye Dicks - Barnes ammunition. Buy gun ammo online

Originally Posted by mcche171

probably going to be using factory ammo. this stuff has worked well in the past

Deadeye Dicks - Barnes ammunition. Buy gun ammo online

Can't see why that wouldn't work.

I'm using heavier projectiles because I have a 1 in 7 twist rate barrel

Cheers
Pete

Found with 55gr bullets, out of a 14.5 to 16" barrel you can expect around 2800fps at the muzzle, without getting to adventurous with powder charges

Using Barnes 62g TTX and Sierra 69g TMKs out of a 1:7 16" barrel.
Haven't used TMKs yet on an animal. Waiting to see others feedback on them, before i use them on game. The barnes however are very effective.

When doing field work I'll often carry my 223 with me. It's an a-bolt but cut to 15 inches and suppressed. I just use hornady factory ammo and will happily shoot big red deer at 150-200m. Neck shoot mainly, but will pop one behind the shoulder if that is the best option. Yet to have an issue caused by anything other than my complacency. That being said, I haven't hit and lost an animal with my 223 and have shot dozens, mainly because I will always take my time to get a rest and place a good shot.

Originally Posted by Robojaz

Using Barnes 62g TTX and Sierra 69g TMKs out of a 1:7 16" barrel.
Haven't used TMKs yet on an animal. Waiting to see others feedback on them, before i use them on game. The barnes however are very effective.

The 69grn TMK are great on deer.

Using Barnes 62g TTX and Sierra 69g TMKs out of a 1:7 16" barrel.
Haven't used TMKs yet on an animal. Waiting to see others feedback on them, before i use them on game. The barnes however are very effective.

Talk to Happy here on the forum, I believe he is quite lethal with the 223 on fallows.

I like those Hornady 55 gr SP/WC bullets in my Mod 7 at 3070 fps. Not sure what speed you would get from a 14.5 inch barrel but it should be enough at the ranges you are looking at. They work well on deer and goats and small game.

I mainly use 55gr Hornady projectiles. Give good accuracy, not sure what speed. Reloads have accounted for over a thousand goats, a good number of pigs and deer.Only been let down a hand-full of times by operator error.Have also used Rem. 55gr core-lokt which also work well.Used in two rifles,an AR15 with 16" barrel and a Winchester M70

@mcche171

I tried some Hornady 68gr BTHP with 24grs of BM2 in my AR15 (16" 1 in 7 twist barrel) today.

They grouped about an inch at 100m on paper ( which is about as good as I can shoot) and then using my BCD reticle I smashed an 8" gong at 100,200, 300 and twice at 400m

Those Goats had better look out now or else the deadly class of 68 should sneak up on them dropping the hammer and smiting them down dead. ...... Deer too

Cheers
Pete