The short answer is no, a .350 Legend cartridge will not fit in a .223 Remington/5.56 NATO magazine. While both cartridges are used in AR-15 style platforms, their significant size difference prevents interchangeability. This article delves deeper into the reasons behind this incompatibility and explores the key distinctions between these popular calibers.
Understanding Cartridge Dimensions: Why Compatibility Matters
The fundamental reason a .350 Legend won't fit a .223/5.56 magazine boils down to the cartridges' physical dimensions. The .350 Legend is a significantly larger and wider round. Let's break down the key differences:
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Caliber: The .350 Legend's name directly indicates its larger diameter (.350 inches) compared to the .223 Remington's (.224 inches). This substantial difference in bullet diameter dictates the overall size of the cartridge case.
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Case Length: The .350 Legend cartridge case is longer than the .223 Remington case. This increased length further prevents it from fitting within the confines of a standard .223 magazine.
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Magazine Design: .223/5.56 magazines are specifically designed to accommodate the dimensions of the .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO cartridges. Their internal geometry and follower mechanisms are optimized for these cartridges, and attempting to force a .350 Legend into one would likely damage both the magazine and potentially the firearm.
Exploring the Differences Between .350 Legend and .223/5.56 NATO
Beyond simple dimensional incompatibility, the two calibers also differ significantly in their intended applications:
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Ballistics: The .350 Legend delivers significantly more stopping power and energy than the .223 Remington. This makes it a more suitable round for hunting larger game, while the .223 remains popular for varmint hunting, target shooting, and self-defense applications.
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Recoil: The .350 Legend generates noticeably more recoil than the .223 Remington. This difference is a factor to consider for shooters with less experience or those sensitive to recoil.
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Availability: Both cartridges are readily available, however, the .223/5.56 NATO enjoys wider distribution and often comes at a lower cost per round.
Consequences of Forcing Incompatible Cartridges
Attempting to force a .350 Legend round into a .223 magazine can lead to several negative outcomes:
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Magazine Damage: The larger cartridge will likely jam the magazine's follower, causing malfunction and potentially bending or breaking the magazine.
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Firearm Damage: Forcing the cartridge into the chamber could lead to damage to the firearm's feed ramp, bolt face, or other internal components. This could result in costly repairs or render the firearm unusable.
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Unsafe Operation: A jammed cartridge can create a dangerous situation, potentially leading to a failure to feed or a catastrophic malfunction.
Conclusion: Using the Right Magazine for the Right Cartridge
In summary, it's crucial to always use the correct magazine for the specific caliber of ammunition. The .350 Legend and .223 Remington are distinct cartridges with different dimensions and intended uses. Never attempt to compromise cartridge compatibility; always use the appropriately designed magazine and ammunition for your firearm to ensure safe and reliable operation. This fundamental safety practice will prevent potential damage to your equipment and protect your well-being.
