Any Reason Why There is More JHP or SP in 223 than 556?

[thegazelle]

Hi, Happy Easter to All...

Just sitting down to relax for the afternoon and took a quick look at the ammo pages of the various LGS in my area. One thing I noticed is that the JHP or SP rounds, they are predominantly available in 223, not 556. I realize I can use 223 in my 556 chambered rifle, but just curious why they manufacturers don't make JHP or SP for the 556? Is it because 223 is just the more widely available consumer round for hunting, etc. as opposed to 556?

 

[vern130]

5.56x45 is a Military round, FMJ is what they use. I would suspect that most 5.56x45 floating around was once destined for some kind of service use and repackaged for commercial sale. .223 Remington is the more common civilian/commercial chambering/designation, so more sporting type bullets used.

 

[thegazelle]

Thanks very much for the information Vern, - that makes total sense.