From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A headstamp is the markings on the bottom on a cartridge case designed for a firearm. It usually tells who manufactured the case. If it is a civilian case it often also tells the caliber, if it is military, the year of manufacture is often added.
The left cartridge's headstamp says "FC 223 REM" which means that is was made by Federal Cartridge Co. and it is in the caliber ".223 Remington". The cartridge on the right has a headstamp that says "LC 99" with a symbol that consists of a cross in a circle. This cartridge was made in 1999 by the Lake City Ordnance Plant, in
Independence, MO, USA. The symbol on this headstamp means it meets NATO specifications.
The headstamp is punched into the base of the cartridge during manufacture.
