Thread: Best .223 rounds for an 18.5" 1:9 barrel

Hi,
I've recently acquired a cz 527 in .223. I'd love some advice on the best ammo for its 18.5", 1:9 barrel. It would be used predominantly for goats and target shooting. If there's a versatile round out there that can do both, my CDS turret will be happy.
Cheers

Nothing special about the twist rate, length, or it being a CZ that changes much. You will be limited to about 70gr in projectile weight by the twist.

69gr TMK's were what I used to squeeze the most out of mine... but I was reloading. I'm not aware of any factory ammo available in NZ loaded with that bullet.

The market is pretty devoid of options in that 56-70gr range as far as hunting ammo goes with a bullet that's well suited to target shooting too. If it shoots the 60gr V-Max well then maybe that's an option. Otherwise there are plenty of 55-62gr soft point options that the rifle will probably shoot well and allow you to casually bang steel out to a few hundred metres.

Please don't use FMJ's or HPBT match bullets on animals.

Pretty much anything that groups ok.i would start with Hornady bulk pack if can find it. Goats not hard to kill cleanly.

For me 62 grain seems the best all rounder. If you can find it for off the shelf ammo Belmont black is stupidly accurate and cheaper than reloading.

Fiocchi 60 gn "v-max style" is also a good performer in most rifles (as is the 55gn for that matter).

Fiocchi 50 and 60gr Vmax work well in my 15inch 223.
Along with the 55gr hornady training ammo

Hi Marty, that tin, when it's in stock looks like a good deal. What are your barrel specs?

62 Hdy SP and 69 grn Target HP both go exceptionally well in my Ruger American Ranch II, 16.5in, 1:8 twist
Handloads