Groups & Velocities from 6 AR-15 Barrels: AAC 77gr OTM Review

Published on May 8, 2025
Duration: 13:28

This comprehensive review by Preston Moore analyzes the performance of AAC 77gr OTM ammunition across six different AR-15 barrels. The study meticulously documents group sizes and velocities from 30-shot strings, providing valuable data for shooters. The Noveske Rival V2 17" barrel achieved the best results, demonstrating the critical role of barrel selection in ammunition performance.

Quick Summary

The AAC 77gr OTM ammunition, featuring a Hornady 77gr OTM projectile, is rated at 2700 FPS from a 20-inch barrel. In a comprehensive test across six AR-15 barrels, the Noveske Rival V2 17" achieved the best performance with a 2.4 MOA 30-shot group and an A-ZED score of 225 yards.

Chapters

  1. 00:00AAC 77gr OTM Review Overview
  2. 00:24Price and Quality Concerns
  3. 00:51Ammunition Specifications
  4. 01:41Barrel Testing Selection
  5. 02:12Test Methodology and Setup
  6. 02:46Data Collection Tools
  7. 04:02Visual Inspection and Reliability
  8. 04:25Velocity Summary Across Barrels
  9. 04:56A-ZED Metric Explained
  10. 05:13Daniel Defense 16" Performance
  11. 05:56Geissele 16.25" Performance Issues
  12. 08:11SOLGW SPR 16" Results
  13. 08:58Hodge Defense 14.5" Results
  14. 09:42Noveske Rival V2 17" Success
  15. 10:24Nordic Components 18" Performance
  16. 11:03Overall Testing Conclusions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AAC 77gr OTM ammunition's rated velocity and what projectile does it use?

The AAC 77gr OTM ammunition is rated at 2700 FPS from a 20-inch barrel and features a Hornady 77gr Open Tip Match (OTM) projectile. It utilizes boxer-primed, reloadable brass with an AAC headstamp.

Which AR-15 barrel performed best with AAC 77gr OTM ammunition in Preston Moore's test?

The Noveske Rival V2 17" barrel achieved the best results, producing a 2.4 MOA 30-shot group and an A-ZED score of 225 yards, indicating superior accuracy with this ammunition.

What tools were used to measure velocity and group sizes in the AAC 77gr OTM review?

Velocity was measured using a ProChrono DLX and a Garmin Xero C1 Pro. Group sizes were measured at 100 yards using the Ballistic-X app, simulating match conditions with 30-shot strings.

What is the A-ZED metric and how was it applied in this AR-15 ammunition test?

The A-Zone Equivalence Distance (A-ZED) metric calculates the maximum distance a group would fit within a USPSA lower A-zone (approx. 6x11 inches). It was used to provide a practical comparison of accuracy across different barrel and ammunition combinations.

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