5.56 & 223 - PSA Upper Accuracy Tests

Published on January 9, 2017
Duration: 28:35

This video details accuracy tests of a Palmetto State Armory (PSA) 16-inch 5.56 upper receiver. The presenter, an experienced shooter, systematically tests various bullet weights (55gr to 77gr) and powder charges, documenting group sizes and velocities. The PSA upper demonstrated functional reliability but yielded inconsistent accuracy, prompting further investigation into potential improvements through gunsmithing.

Quick Summary

The PSA 16-inch 5.56 upper receiver features a 1:7 twist stainless steel barrel and a mid-length gas system. While functionally reliable, its accuracy was inconsistent, with heavier 77gr and 69gr Sierra Match King bullets performing best (1.4" and 1.5" groups respectively). Lighter bullets yielded poor results. Future improvements will involve gunsmithing to square the receiver face.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to PSA 5.56 Upper
  2. 00:05PSA Armory 16in 5.56 Upper Specs
  3. 01:31Alternative AR Stoner Barrel
  4. 02:53Bullet Selection for Testing
  5. 03:1155gr Hornady FMJ Load Data
  6. 04:1562gr SS109 Load Data
  7. 05:2868gr Hornady HPBT Load Data
  8. 05:5869gr Sierra Match King Load Data
  9. 06:3077gr Sierra Match King Load Data
  10. 07:19Norma 77gr Match Ammo Test
  11. 08:07Brass and Primers Used
  12. 09:02Range Day Begins
  13. 10:43Range Setup and Initial Shots
  14. 11:00Early Results: 55gr & 62gr Performance
  15. 11:37Focus on 69gr & 77gr Sierra Match Kings
  16. 12:18Shooting 69gr Sierra Match Kings (Varget)
  17. 17:03Shooting 77gr Sierra Match Kings (N140)
  18. 19:26Testing Norma 77gr Factory Ammo
  19. 20:29Reviewing Accuracy Results
  20. 21:0955gr Hornady FMJ Group Analysis
  21. 22:0862gr SS109 Group Analysis
  22. 22:4468gr Hornady HPBT Group Analysis
  23. 23:3369gr Sierra Match King Group Analysis
  24. 24:5177gr Sierra Match King Group Analysis
  25. 25:48Overall Function vs. Groups
  26. 26:05Next Steps: Gunsmithing
  27. 26:18Receiver Squaring Procedure
  28. 27:00Factory Assembly Observations
  29. 27:44Future Testing Plans
  30. 28:28Conclusion and Next Video Tease

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specifications of the Palmetto State Armory 16-inch 5.56 upper receiver tested in this video?

The PSA 16-inch 5.56 upper features a free-float rail (approx. 13.5 inches), a 16-inch stainless steel barrel with a 1:7 twist rate, and a mid-length gas system. It was purchased during a Black Friday sale and tested in its factory configuration.

Which bullet weights performed best with the PSA 5.56 upper receiver?

Heavier match-grade bullets showed the most promise. The 77gr Sierra Match King yielded best groups of 1.4 inches, and the 69gr Sierra Match King produced best groups of 1.5 inches. Lighter bullets like 55gr and 62gr performed poorly.

What issues were encountered during the accuracy testing of the PSA 5.56 upper?

The primary issue was inconsistent accuracy, particularly with lighter bullet weights. A feeding issue was also observed, but it was attributed to handloaded ammunition with an excessive overall length, not a fault of the upper receiver itself.

What are the planned next steps to improve the accuracy of the PSA 5.56 upper?

The presenter plans to disassemble the upper, square the receiver face using a specialized tool, and reassemble it. This gunsmithing step is intended to improve build consistency and potentially enhance accuracy.

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