The .223 rounds are now classifed as pistol ammunition by the BATFE. This obviously means that if the cartridge is used in pistols, then the magazines that are associated with it are also used (may be used, capable of use) inside of a pistol.
Proceed with caution in the near future when using >10 round magazines in these calibers.  Take it for what it's worth.

For more information see:

 http://www.snowflakesinhell.com/2011/07/11/reclassification-of-223-6-5-grendel-and-6-8-spc/

http://www.ar15armory.com/forums/BATF-Classifies-223-65-t106361.html&pid=1496491#entry1496491

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=454395

how about 5.56?

how about 5.56?

 

Well, this doesn't really change anything for those of us in Hawaii.  Magazines >10 rounds are, and have been, illegal on both .223 and 5.56,  The fact that HPD is turning a blind eye at the moment isn't likely to change with this ruling, but then again, IANAL.

Well, this doesn't really change anything for those of us in Hawaii.  Magazines >10 rounds are, and have been, illegal on both .223 and 5.56,  The fact that HPD is turning a blind eye at the moment isn't likely to change with this ruling, but then again, IANAL.

We had some that refute our position, but now, the BATFE calls it a pistol round.... kind of clears it all up at this point .  Just wanting people to kind of wake up, pay attention, and not get into trouble without really "knowing" they could be breaking the law.

how about 5.56?

It's probably on the way, they are using the same language as our statutes here:  "may be used"

Wait, just to clarify.  Aren't they saying that "...the solid copper bullets he (Elite Ammunition) makes is classsified as pistol ammunition.  The regular lead core bullets you and I shoot are not part of this determination."?

No, they are saying that .223 is pistol ammunition.  Pistol ammunition had different requirements of the metallurgy that composed "armor piercing."  Meaning, as a rifle round, elite was skirting the law -- as a pistol round, they got raided by ATF Swat Team for having armor piercing handgun ammunition.  The reason is the their metals structure constituted brass core, which is a no-no in handgun ammunition.  Because most steel core is not fully steel i.e. SS109 .223 rounds (there is lead included) it doesn't fall under the armor piercing handgun round. So, at least for now, that round should be safe.

Can't wait to leave this place....

Eh this is going to mess with lots of ammo manufacturing I think. It also shows how gun control can be "under the radar" just by the ATF making up some bullcrap rules.

Eh this is going to mess with lots of ammo manufacturing I think. It also shows how gun control can be "under the radar" just by the ATF making up some bullcrap rules.

I think you will see a battle from someone on this issue. Next will be 7.62 ammo that goes in AK pistols.

What I've heard is that 7.62x39 already fell under that ruling and people are hoping that 5.45x39 doesn't.

I think the ruling (and I only know what I have read here...) sucks. But, maybe we can use it to our advantage. Remember, the antis always say those evil black "assault weapons" are high powered killing devices that shouldn't be in the hands of ordinary citizens. But, if the ammo is "handgun" ammo, how then can it be used in a "high powered" rifle?

I think the ruling (and I only know what I have read here...) sucks. But, maybe we can use it to our advantage. Remember, the antis always say those evil black "assault weapons" are high powered killing devices that shouldn't be in the hands of ordinary citizens. But, if the ammo is "handgun" ammo, how then can it be used in a "high powered" rifle?

They'll claim that us bible-, gun-clinging nutjobs are making high powered assault rifles in concealable pistol form!

"Warning! According to the EFTAB, DOGS are now called CATS and CATS called DOGS!" 

So basically, they can call a Wrench, a Bazooka. That would suck if all of a sudden I couldn't use my Bazooka for work.....

Does anybody know what the penalty is for possessing a 30-round magazine?  I know it's illegal, but HPD is turning a blind eye, and possession of a magazine such as an 30-round AR mag is only a misdemeanor as long as it's not inserted in a pistol.  So, say I decided to take advantage of HPD's good graces and use 30 round magazines in an AR.  What kind of penalties would I be looking at if the benevolence suddenly came to an end and I got written up for having them?

Misdemeanor is up to 1 yr  -- Felony is over 1 yr.   Not likely penalties though, but that is the max.

misdemeanor for possession; felony if inserted into a pistol.

Interesting.  Well, I'm certainly not willing to do time over it.  I'd go for it if the penalty was a fine, but I'm just too pretty for prison!

so its illegal to load 10 rounds into a 30 round mag and use it on the rifle side?