I've noticed (in regards to the .223) that the application of the zinc coating from the Barnaul plant seems to be much better (smoother) than from the Ulyanovsk (sp) plant. I've noticed that they (the Uly ammo) tend to become oxidized (producing a white coating) on the exterior of the cartridges. They also seem to be less "smooth", which may affect function.
Unfortunately, the Barnaul plant only produces the 62 grain version of the .223, while the Uly plant produces the 55 grain.