The difference between 22 and .223

I had a friend ask me what the difference was between the round that a 22 rifle shoots and the .223 that the AR15 shoots. I didn't know how to answer his question. Is the .223 bullet bigger? I am pretty sure the casing is bigger. Please help. I don't think I have ever seen a 22 bullet, nor shot a 22 rifle.

Thanks!

Originally Posted By js308: I had a friend ask me what the difference was between the round that a 22 rifle shoots and the .223 that the AR15 shoots. I didn't know how to answer his question. Is the .223 bullet bigger? I am pretty sure the casing is bigger. Please help. I don't think I have ever seen a 22 bullet, nor shot a 22 rifle. Thanks!

Although the diameter of the projectiles is similar, the .223 bullet is almost as big as the whole .22lr round (see above).

A much heavier projectile combined with a HUGE increase in case capacity (meaning more powder) gives a round with many, many times the energy.

Hmmmm....

The difference is .003?

Cost is also a BIG difference. Cheaper to shoot .22 than .223

Originally Posted By Radio_Cowboy: Hmmmm.... The difference is .003?

Check your math.

22 - .223=21.777

Ok great!! Thanks for the info.

Originally Posted By shrikefan: Originally Posted By Radio_Cowboy: Hmmmm.... The difference is .003? Check your math. 22 - .223=21.777

But the diameter is really .224

.223 is 1.5 times the mass of the .22cal and a HELL of a lot more powder to push it along at a MUCH higher velocity.

.22cal Marlin will knock the guts out of a squirrel.

.223cal AR15 can blow the lungs out of a large cow.

Originally Posted By Mugbug: Originally Posted By shrikefan: Originally Posted By Radio_Cowboy: Hmmmm.... The difference is .003? Check your math. 22 - .223=21.777 But the diameter is really .224

He was making a play on the thread title.

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