5.56 vs 7.62: Unexpected Difference On Steel
This video compares the steel penetration capabilities of 5.56x45mm M193 and 7.62x51mm M80 ammunition. While both calibers penetrated 1/4" and 3/8" mild steel, neither fully penetrated 1/2" mild steel with standard FMJ rounds. The M855A1 round, however, cleanly penetrated the 1/2" steel, demonstrating superior performance. The test highlights velocity's significant role in steel penetration, with 5.56 achieving 84% of 7.62's impact depth on 1/2" steel despite lower kinetic energy.
![5.56mm [Part II] - M193 vs. M855 Green tip](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F6Iu-_TkpfO8%2Fhqdefault.jpg&w=3840&q=75)








