AR15 | 10.5” Barrel VS 16” Barrel Ballistics Gel Test | M855 FMJ and 60gr Partition

Published on August 17, 2025
Duration: 8:00

This video compares the ballistic performance of M855 62gr FMJ and a 60gr Nosler Partition handload fired from AR-15 platforms with 10.5-inch and 16-inch barrels into Clear Ballistics gel. The instructor notes significant differences in wound channel and penetration based on barrel length and ammunition type, particularly highlighting the tumbling effect of M855 from the shorter barrel and the expansion characteristics of the Nosler Partition.

Quick Summary

Comparing AR-15 barrel lengths, a 10.5-inch barrel typically yields lower velocity and more tumbling with M855 ammo. A 16-inch barrel offers higher velocity and better expansion for rounds like the 60gr Nosler Partition, making it more suitable for hunting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Setup
  2. 00:36Recap of Previous Test and New Ammunition
  3. 01:18M855 Test: 10.5-inch Barrel
  4. 02:28M855 10.5-inch Barrel Ballistics Gel Results
  5. 03:16M855 Test: 16-inch Barrel
  6. 03:35M855 16-inch Barrel Ballistics Gel Results
  7. 04:2560gr Nosler Partition Test: 10.5-inch Barrel
  8. 04:4660gr Nosler Partition 10.5-inch Barrel Results
  9. 04:5960gr Nosler Partition Test: 16-inch Barrel
  10. 05:1760gr Nosler Partition 16-inch Barrel Results
  11. 06:01Bullet Recovery and Analysis
  12. 06:06M855 Bullet Analysis
  13. 06:25Nosler Partition Bullet Analysis
  14. 07:09Conclusion and Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference in ballistic performance between a 10.5-inch and 16-inch AR-15 barrel?

A 10.5-inch barrel typically results in lower muzzle velocity and can cause ammunition like M855 to tumble more aggressively. A 16-inch barrel generally provides higher velocity and can lead to more consistent expansion with certain bullet types, like the Nosler Partition tested.

How does M855 ammunition perform from different AR-15 barrel lengths?

From a 10.5-inch barrel, M855 showed significant tumbling and less fragmentation. From a 16-inch barrel, it achieved higher velocity and exhibited some lead fragmentation, with similar overall penetration depth in ballistic gel.

Is the 60gr Nosler Partition a good choice for hunting with a 5.56/.223 rifle?

Yes, the 60gr Nosler Partition demonstrated good expansion and penetration from both 10.5-inch and 16-inch barrels, with the longer barrel yielding better expansion. It's considered a viable option for deer hunting with these calibers.

What are the muzzle velocities for M855 and 60gr Nosler Partition from 10.5" and 16" AR-15 barrels?

M855 velocities were 2741 fps (10.5") and 3050 fps (16"). The 60gr Nosler Partition velocities were 2552 fps (10.5") and 2903 fps (16").

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