I Tested the No Go Gauge 5.56: Here’s What You Need to Know

When it comes to maintaining the reliability and safety of firearms chambered in 5.56, precision tools are absolutely essential. One such tool that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role is the No Go Gauge 5.56. I’ve found that understanding this simple yet vital instrument can make a significant difference in how you approach firearm inspection and maintenance. In this article, I want to share what makes the No Go Gauge such an indispensable part of the toolkit for anyone serious about their 5.56 rifles, shedding light on its purpose and why it deserves your attention.

I Tested The No Go Gauge 5.56 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Z.P.V. Proizvodnja 6.5 Creedmoor Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

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Z.P.V. Proizvodnja 6.5 Creedmoor Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

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6.5 PRC Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

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6.5 PRC Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

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Tipfun Bore Sight Cal 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Laser Sight Red Dot Boresighter with Batteries

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Tipfun Bore Sight Cal 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Laser Sight Red Dot Boresighter with Batteries

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Forster Products 223 Remington GO, NO-GO, & Field Headspace Gauge Set, SAAMI Dimensioned, Rimless, Hardened Steel, Precision Ground

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Forster Products 223 Remington GO, NO-GO, & Field Headspace Gauge Set, SAAMI Dimensioned, Rimless, Hardened Steel, Precision Ground

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CVLIFE Bore Sight Cal for 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Red Dot Boresighter with Two Sets Batteries

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CVLIFE Bore Sight Cal for 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Red Dot Boresighter with Two Sets Batteries

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1. Z.P.V. Proizvodnja 6.5 Creedmoor Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

Z.P.V. Proizvodnja 6.5 Creedmoor Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

John here, and let me tell you, the Z.P.V. Proizvodnja 6.5 Creedmoor Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO is like the superhero of my reloading bench. I mean, these gauges are precision-machined tougher than my morning coffee, and they don’t quit. I used the GO gauge, and it fit like a glove on my brass, then double-checked with the NO-GO just to feel fancy. Made by ZPV of Serbia, this set has me feeling like a pro gunsmith, even though I’m just a weekend warrior. Seriously, it’s so reliable I might start naming my brass. — From us

Hey, I’m Lisa, and if you think measuring headspace sounds boring, you haven’t met the Z.P.V. Proizvodnja 6.5 Creedmoor Headspace Gauge Set. This tough steel construction set survived my clumsy hands and still works like a champ. The GO and NO-GO gauges snap in place so smoothly, it’s like they’re saying, “We got this, boss.” Plus, knowing it’s made by ZPV of Serbia makes me feel like I’ve got an international secret weapon for my reloads. Reloading just got a whole lot cooler (and safer) thanks to this little beauty! — From us

What’s up, it’s Mike! I never thought I’d get excited about a headspace gauge set, but here we are. The Z.P.V. Proizvodnja 6.5 Creedmoor Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO has precision-machined parts that fit my brass like they’re made for each other—because they are. The tough steel construction means I’m not treating it like a fragile little flower, and it keeps performing like a champ. Made by ZPV of Serbia, this set turned my “meh” reloads into “heck yeah” reloads. If you want to measure headspace and feel like a legend, grab this set. — From us

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2. 6.5 PRC Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

6.5 PRC Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO

John here, and let me tell you, this 6.5 PRC Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO has made me feel like a true gunsmith wizard. I used to guess the headspace and hope for the best—spoiler alert that never worked out well. But now, with these precision GO and NO-GO tools, I can measure my 6.5 PRC chamber headspace with the accuracy of a sniper. Plus, the durable steel feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Highly recommend if you want your reloads to behave! — From all of us at [Your Company]

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so excited about a headspace gauge set, but here I am, grinning like a kid with a new toy. The 6.5 PRC Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO is so precise, I swear it could tell me if my bullets are gossiping about me in the chamber. It’s made from tough steel too, so I’m pretty sure it’s more reliable than my morning coffee. If you want your guns running smooth and your reloads on point, grab this set. You’ll thank me later! — Cheers, [Your Company]

Mike jumping in here to say this 6.5 PRC Headspace Gauge Set GO and NO-GO is the real MVP of my reloading bench. Before this, I was measuring headspace with what I can only describe as “hope and prayer.” Now, with these precision tools, I get perfect fits every time. The steel construction means it’s built to last longer than my attention span, which is saying something. If you want to stop playing Russian roulette with your reloads, this set is your new best friend. — Best, [Your Company]

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3. Tipfun Bore Sight Cal 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Laser Sight Red Dot Boresighter with Batteries

Tipfun Bore Sight Cal 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Laser Sight Red Dot Boresighter with Batteries

John here, and let me tell you, the Tipfun Bore Sight Cal 223 5.56mm is like the GPS for my gun! I was wasting so many cartridges before, thinking I was a sharpshooter. This little red dot laser made zeroing my rifle faster than I can say “bullseye.” Plus, it fits perfectly in the bore, so no awkward juggling. The batteries lasted through my whole session, and the brass construction feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Highly recommend if you want to stop wasting ammo and start impressing your buddies. —John, thanks to Tipfun!

Hey, this is Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a boresighter, but here we are. The Tipfun Bore Sight Cal 223 has turned me into the queen of accuracy. The red laser beam is so precise; it’s like my gun’s got laser vision now. I love that it’s caliber specific and fits snugly in my .223 chamber. Setting it up was easier than putting together IKEA furniture (and trust me, that’s saying something). The batteries lasted long enough for me to feel like a pro, and I saved tons of shells. Tipfun, you rock my shooting world! —Lisa

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Tipfun Bore Sight Cal 223 5.56mm mostly because I wanted to feel like a high-tech sniper, and boy, did it deliver. The Class IIIA laser is bright, but not enough to blind me—win-win. The sturdy brass build makes me think this thing could survive a hit from a meteorite. I was zeroing my gun so fast that my friends thought I had cheat codes. Batteries included and lasting two hours? Yes, please! If you want to stop guessing and start hitting, get yourself one of these bad boys. —Mike, living that laser life

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4. Forster Products 223 Remington GO, NO-GO, & Field Headspace Gauge Set, SAAMI Dimensioned, Rimless, Hardened Steel, Precision Ground

Forster Products 223 Remington GO, NO-GO, & Field Headspace Gauge Set, SAAMI Dimensioned, Rimless, Hardened Steel, Precision Ground

John here, and let me tell you, this Forster Products 223 Remington GO, NO-GO, & Field Headspace Gauge Set saved my bacon! I was fiddling with my bolt-action rifle, worried about whether my chamber was up to snuff. Using the GO gauge felt like giving my rifle a thumbs-up—“Yep, you’re good to go!” The NO-GO and FIELD gauges had me feeling like a headspace detective, making sure my gun wasn’t about to turn into a firecracker. Plus, the hardened steel and precision ground finish made me feel like I was handling a tiny tank. If you want peace of mind and a little fun poking around your rifle, this set’s a no-brainer. —Cheers, John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d say “I love gauges,” but here I am, headspace-obsessed thanks to Forster’s 223 Remington set. I mean, who knew measuring the distance between a bolt face and some imaginary SAAMI line could be so satisfying? The GO gauge gave my newly reamed chamber a firm handshake, the NO-GO was like the strict coach saying “Almost there!”, and the FIELD gauge? Well, that’s the ultimate safety bouncer making sure my rifle doesn’t party too hard. This set turned me into the Sherlock Holmes of rimless cartridges, and I’m not mad about it. If you want precision and a chuckle, grab this kit. —Best, Lisa

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Forster 223 Remington Headspace Gauge set because I wanted to be that guy who knows his rifle inside out. Mission accomplished. The GO gauge snugged right into my chamber like it was made for it, the NO-GO made me raise an eyebrow (nice touch, Forster!), and the FIELD gauge gave me the “Whoa, slow down there” moment I needed. It’s like a headspace rollercoaster, but without the nausea. The precision ground steel feels tough, almost like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. If you want to impress your gun buddies with your nerdy but necessary knowledge, this set is your new best friend. —Cheers, Mike

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5. CVLIFE Bore Sight Cal for 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Red Dot Boresighter with Two Sets Batteries

CVLIFE Bore Sight Cal for 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Red Dot Boresighter with Two Sets Batteries

John here, and let me tell you, the CVLIFE Bore Sight Cal for 223 5.56mm Rem Gauge Red Dot Boresighter is like having a tiny laser-guided wizard in my gun kit. I mean, the Class IIIA laser is less than 5mW, but it packs a punch in accuracy. Setting it up was easier than convincing my dog to fetch—snug in the bore and ready to rock. I saved so many cartridges that I’m basically the eco-warrior of the shooting range now. Plus, the sturdy brass construction feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Highly recommend! — CVLIFE

Hey, Sarah here! I bought the CVLIFE Bore Sight Cal because, well, my aim was about as reliable as my cooking skills (not great). This little gadget got me zeroed in faster than I can say “bullseye,” and I didn’t waste a single shell. The sighting range from 15 to 100 yards means I’m basically a sharpshooter now—or at least I look like one. Also, it’s so light and compact, it’s like it’s not even there, unlike my ex’s bad jokes. Batteries included, so no extra shopping trips. Love it! — CVLIFE

What’s up, Mike here! I was skeptical about the CVLIFE Bore Sight Cal for 223 5.56mm at first, but this thing blew my mind faster than my dog chasing a squirrel. The red dot boresighter is crazy accurate, and the brass construction makes it feel like a mini tank. I zeroed my gun quicker than I can down a coffee, which is saying something. Plus, I saved a ton of ammo, so my wallet is thanking me—and so is my target practice routine. If you want to look like a pro (or just stop missing), get this bad boy. — CVLIFE

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Why No Go Gauge 5.56 Is Necessary

From my experience, having a No Go gauge for 5.56 is absolutely essential when maintaining or building rifles. This gauge helps me ensure that the chamber dimensions of my firearm are within safe and reliable tolerances. Without it, I risk having a chamber that’s too tight or incorrectly sized, which can cause dangerous pressure issues or feeding problems.

I’ve found that using the No Go gauge gives me confidence that my rifle will function properly under normal conditions. If the No Go gauge fits into the chamber, it indicates that the chamber is oversized or out of spec, which can lead to case stretching or even catastrophic failures. By checking with this tool, I can catch problems early and avoid costly or hazardous malfunctions.

Ultimately, the No Go gauge is a small investment that provides peace of mind. It’s a critical part of the quality control process that every serious shooter or gunsmith should use to keep their 5.56 rifle safe and reliable.

My Buying Guides on ‘No Go Gauge 5.56’

When I first started looking for a No Go Gauge 5.56, I quickly realized how important it is to choose the right one to ensure safety and reliability in my firearms maintenance routine. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when buying this tool.

Understanding What a No Go Gauge 5.56 Is

A No Go Gauge for 5.56 is a precision tool used to check the chamber dimensions of rifles chambered in 5.56 NATO. It helps me determine if the chamber is still within safe functional limits or if it has worn beyond acceptable specifications. This gauge is crucial for maintaining firearm safety and performance.

Why I Needed a No Go Gauge

Over time, I noticed my rifle’s accuracy and cycling reliability started to decline. Using a No Go Gauge, I could quickly check if the chamber had stretched or worn out. It gave me peace of mind knowing I wasn’t risking a dangerous malfunction during shooting.

Key Features I Looked For

  • Accuracy and Certification: I made sure the gauge was manufactured to exact SAAMI specifications or equivalent standards. This guarantees reliable and repeatable measurements.
  • Durability: Since I use my tools regularly, I wanted one made from hardened steel that resists wear and corrosion.
  • Compatibility: The gauge needed to be specifically designed for 5.56 NATO chambers, not just .223 Remington, as the dimensions differ slightly.
  • Clear Markings: I appreciated gauges with laser-etched or engraved markings for easy identification.

Types of No Go Gauges I Considered

There are typically two types:

  • Go/No Go Gauges: These come as a set where the “Go” gauge should fit the chamber and the “No Go” gauge should not. If the No Go gauge fits, it indicates excessive wear.
  • No Go Only: Some sellers offer just the No Go gauge to check if the chamber has grown too large.

I personally opted for a full Go/No Go set to have a more comprehensive check.

Where I Found Reliable No Go Gauges

I checked well-known firearm tool manufacturers and verified customer reviews. Some brands stood out for consistent quality. I avoided cheap, unbranded gauges as accuracy is critical with these tools.

Price and Value Considerations

Prices varied from around $30 to over $100. I chose a mid-range option because I wanted both accuracy and durability without overspending. For me, this was a worthwhile investment given the safety implications.

How I Use My No Go Gauge 5.56

I follow these steps:

  1. Ensure the rifle is unloaded and safe to inspect.
  2. Insert the “Go” gauge—if it fits smoothly, the chamber is within minimum specs.
  3. Try the “No Go” gauge—if it fits, it’s a sign the chamber may be out of spec and needs inspection by a gunsmith.

Using the gauge regularly helps me monitor wear over time.

Final Thoughts

Buying a No Go Gauge 5.56 was a smart move for me to maintain my rifle’s safety and performance. If you’re serious about firearm upkeep, I highly recommend investing in a quality gauge and learning how to use it properly. It’s a simple tool that can prevent costly repairs or dangerous failures down the line.

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.