[natedog]

OK, this is coming from a total handloading newb, but...

Would it be possible to load a .223/5.56mm with faster burning powders to achieve a higher velocity from a short barrel?

[Jim Watson]

No.
The idea comes up every once in a while, but maximum muzzle velocity comes with the same or very similar powder no matter what the barrel length. The muzzle blast gets worse, is all. A faster powder will reach maximum chamber pressure before it blows the bullet out any faster.

Of course you could buy a chronograph, a mixed case of powder, a long barrel, and a hacksaw and run the experiment. Might get famous.

[Swamprabbit]

You may try it but you may only get one shot off. One of the bad things is that you may not be around to know just what happened :( . Fast burning powders will peak out on pressure too soon causing excessive chamber pressures. Stick to load recommendations in a reputable reloading manual and you'll be fine.

Muzzle flashes are just part of having short barrels.

[Master Blaster]

Try Hodgdon Varget, and you may also want to try Winchester 748, they are moderate burn rate rifle powders that seem to work well in .223.

Varget may be lower flash in short barrels,and it gives excellent accuracy.

Some military powders are low flash( meaning thet less of the powder is burning outside of the barrel) with high velocit obtained, you could call Hodgdon, and ask them which powders in the Hodgdon/ IMR line produce a lower flash signature, also call Sierra's tech line they may be able to suggest a lower flash signature powder.

Update I just called Hodgdon, Varget is their recommendation for higher velocity and lower flash in a short 16" barrel. The Speer manual 13 bears this out as well, for 50-69 grain bullets.

[Coltdriver]

What kind of fps are you trying to get to and how long is the barrel you are using???