5.56 / .223 Ammo Deals (updated daily)
5.56 NATO and .223 Remington are the go-to rifle rounds for range days, varmint hunting and home defense carbines, and prices swing more than most calibers. GunDeals lists hundreds of in-stock 5.56 and .223 offers from dozens of retailers, sorted so the lowest cost per round rises to the top. Check today's prices below, then read our quick guide on what a good deal really looks like.
What counts as a good 5.56 / .223 deal?
Compare cost per round (CPR) after shipping and tax, not the box price. Rough benchmarks (prices change with demand, season and news):
- Brass-case 55gr FMJ (M193 type or commercial .223): around 35 to 45 cents per round in 500 or 1,000-round cases is a strong price.
- Heavier 62gr to 69gr FMJ and target loads: typically a few cents more per round than 55gr FMJ.
- Steel-case .223: often 30 to 40 cents per round; fine for many rifles, but some ranges do not allow it.
- Match and hunting loads (77gr OTM, soft points, polymer tips): 70 cents to well over a dollar per round is normal, so watch for sales on 20-round boxes.
5.56 vs .223: what is the difference?
The cartridges look nearly identical, but 5.56 NATO is loaded to higher pressure. A rifle chambered in 5.56 (or .223 Wylde) can safely fire both. A rifle marked .223 Remington only should not be fed 5.56. Check the barrel marking before you buy a case.
What to check before you buy
- Shipping: a 1,000-round case weighs around 30 pounds, so free shipping can be worth several cents per round.
- Bullet weight vs. twist rate: most modern AR-15s with 1:7 or 1:8 twist handle 55gr to 77gr; older 1:12 barrels prefer lighter bullets.
- Packaging: loose-packed cases, stripper clips and ammo cans each add cost. Buy only what you will use.
- Coupon codes: GunDeals listings often show a code; confirm it applies to ammo.
Legal and storage notes
Federal law requires you to be 18 to buy rifle ammunition from a licensed dealer, and some states and cities add ID checks, permits or in-person pickup. Retailers usually block restricted addresses at checkout, but knowing your local rules is up to you. Store ammo cool, dry and separate from firearms, out of reach of children.
5.56 / .223 Ammo Deals FAQ
What is a good price per round for 5.56?
For brass-case 55gr FMJ bought by the case, roughly 35 to 45 cents per round including shipping is a good deal today. Prices move quickly, so check current listings.
Can I shoot .223 in a 5.56 rifle?
Yes. A 5.56 NATO or .223 Wylde chamber safely fires .223 Remington. The reverse is not recommended: do not fire 5.56 in a rifle marked .223 Remington only.
Is steel-case .223 bad for my rifle?
Steel-case ammo works in most AR-15s for practice, though it may be dirtier and some ranges prohibit it. Many shooters keep brass for serious use and steel for plinking.
Which grain weight should I buy?
55gr FMJ is the cheapest for practice. 62gr and 77gr loads suit faster-twist barrels and longer distances. Check your barrel's twist rate first.
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