.223 Ammo headstamp info?

[gushulak]

I have a box of .223Rem ammunition that I was wondering the history of if anyone can help me out.

Ammo is factory packed in 20rd box, 10 on two stripper clips. FMJ, Manufactured in the Philippines. Headstamps on the cartridges are MC 85 223. Brass cases, crimped primers. 1985 made? 55gr. FMJ? Nato spec ammo or .223Rem spec? Any info from the ammo gurus would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[jennis]

I would direct any query to 'CanAm'

 

[hakx]

I have a box of .223Rem ammunition that I was wondering the history of if anyone can help me out.

Ammo is factory packed in 20rd box, 10 on two stripper clips. FMJ, Manufactured in the Philippines. Headstamps on the cartridges are MC 85 223. Brass cases, crimped primers. 1985 made? 55gr. FMJ? Nato spec ammo or .223Rem spec? Any info from the ammo gurus would be appreciated. Thanks.

I am no means an ammo guru, but have do reload for the .223 and routinely use military brass

Based on your description, it sounds like you have Milsurp 5.56 Nato, the military version of .223 Rem (they are as about close as "Damn" is to swearing). Every NATO country produces or imports this type of ammo and employ's it for universality of service. A lot of folks shoot it out fo there .223 chambered firearms without incident, while others advise against it.

MC - Metal Case
85 - Manufacture date = 1985
FMJ - Full Metal Jacket
Crimped primer - secures the primer in the pocket - a feature more pertainent to automatic weapons. This is very typical of Mil Spec.

Hope this helps

Merry Xmas, Hakx

 

[redleg]

MC is the manufacturer's code.