New to the game here so sorry for the dumb question.

I don't get how repair works. I'm trying to make the 5.56mm rounds to save some money but in order to make them I have to break down 5.56mm rounds to get supplies. When I use those supplies I end up with less than I started with.

Now I know I could break down other rifle rounds for the components but I rarely ever find enough to make it worthwhile and if I buy them off a merchant I might as well be buying my 5.56mm rounds instead.

I know I'm missing something here so what is it?

Thanks.