I just got a box of Black Hills 55gr. .223 at the local gunstore today.

When I got it home and open it up, I noticed that it had the NATO headstamp as well as LC, 02.  For my limited experience in reading headstamps, this would indicate to me that is was Lake City M193 ammo loaded in 2002.

Since I know that can't be the case, I'm thinking that its more likely that Black Hills bought surplus brass from Lake City for their production runs.

Am I on the right track or did I really end up for Lake City M193 ammo from 2002?

Thanks,

-Frank

Black Hills blue box uses reloaded components.

It's just Lake City brass reloaded by Black Hills.

Great ammo.

Quoted: st got a box of Black Hills 55gr. .223 at the local gunstore today. When I got it home and open it up, I noticed that it had the NATO headstamp as well as LC, 02.  For my limited experience in reading headstamps, this would indicate to me that is was Lake City M193 ammo loaded in 2002. Since I know that can't be the case, I'm thinking that its more likely that Black Hills bought surplus brass from Lake City for their production runs. -Frank

Why can't that be the case?  I assume the LC plant is producing 2004 headstamp ammo today.  I am sure that the 2002 brass would have gotten to the Black Hills Blue Box line by now.

You do know that 'blue box' ammo is reloads don't you?  Notice the primer crimp has been fully removed and the primer is most likely to be silver instead of copper colored.

Black Hills is good ammo.  Have a blast!

Well, how is it shooting ?