5.56 & .223 - More PSA Upper accuracy tests

Published on February 9, 2017
Duration: 20:19

This video details accuracy tests comparing a Palmetto State Armory (PSA) 16-inch 5.56 upper with a stainless steel barrel against an AR Stoner 16-inch barrel. The testing involved four different bullet types (55gr Hornady FMJ, 55gr Midsouth Varmint Nightmare, 69gr Sierra Match King, 69gr Barnes Match Burner) and various powders, with groups measured at 100 yards. While neither barrel definitively outperformed the other across all loads, the PSA barrel showed slightly better performance with lighter bullets, and the AR Stoner with heavier bullets. The presenter concludes that both offer acceptable accuracy for their budget price point.

Quick Summary

Accuracy tests comparing Palmetto State Armory (PSA) and AR Stoner 16-inch 5.56/.223 barrels showed similar performance, with both capable of 1.5-2 MOA. The PSA barrel, featuring a mid-length gas system, is preferred for suppressed shooting, while the AR Stoner, with a carbine-length gas system, performed slightly better with heavier 69-grain bullets.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Accuracy Testing
  2. 00:06Palmetto State Armory Upper Overview
  3. 00:27PSA Barrel Specs
  4. 00:59AR Stoner Barrel Introduction
  5. 01:18Upper Disassembly and Receiver Squaring
  6. 02:01Ammunition Preparation for Testing
  7. 02:15Bullet and Powder Selection
  8. 03:18Test 1: 55gr Hornady FMJ-BT with Norma 200
  9. 04:12Test 1 Results and Analysis
  10. 05:26Test 2: 55gr Midsouth Varmint Nightmare with Ramshot Exterminator
  11. 06:28Test 2 Results and Analysis
  12. 08:31Test 3: 69gr Sierra Match King with IMR 8208 XBR
  13. 09:08Test 3 Results and Analysis
  14. 11:30Test 4: 69gr Barnes Match Burner with Reloader 15
  15. 12:17Test 4 Results and Analysis
  16. 13:34Overall Barrel Comparison and Conclusion
  17. 14:01Decision on Future Barrel Use
  18. 15:13Gas System Considerations (Carbine vs. Mid-Length)
  19. 15:48AR Stoner Barrel Break-in Procedure
  20. 16:45Colt LE 6920 and Future Plans
  21. 18:00PSA Upper Value and Handguard Review
  22. 19:10Budget AR Performance Expectations
  23. 19:44Video Conclusion and Future Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Palmetto State Armory and AR Stoner 5.56 barrels tested?

The Palmetto State Armory (PSA) barrel is a 16-inch, 1:7 twist stainless steel with a mid-length gas system. The AR Stoner barrel is also 16-inch with a 1:7 twist but features a carbine-length gas system. Both were tested for accuracy with various loads at 100 yards.

How did the 69-grain bullets perform in the PSA and AR Stoner barrels?

The 69-grain Sierra Match King bullets with IMR 8208 XBR powder achieved excellent accuracy, averaging 1.62 inches with the PSA barrel and 1.32 inches with the AR Stoner barrel. The 69-grain Barnes Match Burner with Reloader 15 also performed well, averaging 1.73 inches (PSA) and 1.70 inches (AR Stoner).

Which barrel is better for suppressed shooting, PSA or AR Stoner?

The PSA barrel, with its mid-length gas system, is considered more favorable for suppressed shooting. The AR Stoner barrel's carbine-length gas system is noted to potentially cause more gas blowback when suppressed, leading to an overgassed condition.

What was the overall accuracy expectation for these budget AR barrels?

The presenter suggests that both the PSA and AR Stoner barrels are capable of 1.5 to 2 minute-of-angle (MOA) accuracy, which is considered perfectly acceptable and good performance for budget AR-15 components. Functionality was also reported as outstanding.

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