5.56 vs 5.45x39 On Mild Steel: NOT So Similar After All?

Published on March 30, 2023
Duration: 9:01

This expert-level guide details a rigorous ballistics test comparing 5.56x45mm NATO and 5.45x39mm rounds on mild steel targets. The host from Banana Ballistics, demonstrating high expertise, uses a MagnetoSpeed chronograph and precise measurements to analyze velocity, penetration depth, and projectile deformation. The findings reveal significant differences in performance, particularly with specialized rounds like M855 and 7N6, offering valuable data for firearms enthusiasts and ballistics researchers.

Quick Summary

Banana Ballistics conducted an expert comparison of 5.56x45mm NATO and 5.45x39mm rounds on mild steel. The 5.56 M855 demonstrated superior penetration on 3/8 inch steel, nearly breaching the plate, while 5.45 7N6 failed to penetrate and showed insert deformation. Velocity tests showed varied results, with 7N6 outperforming M855 in speed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Cartridge Comparison
  2. 00:27Test Setup: Rifles and Target Holder
  3. 00:40Standard FMJ Velocity Testing
  4. 01:19Specialty Round Velocity Testing (7N6 vs M855)
  5. 02:001/4 Inch Mild Steel Penetration Results
  6. 03:423/8 Inch Mild Steel Penetration Results
  7. 06:19Post-Test Analysis: Steel Grinding and Insert Recovery
  8. 07:17Final Measurements and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How do 5.56x45mm NATO and 5.45x39mm cartridges compare in steel penetration?

In tests on 3/8 inch mild steel, 5.56x45mm M855 rounds nearly penetrated the plate entirely, while 5.45x39mm 7N6 rounds failed to penetrate and showed significant deformation of their steel inserts. Standard FMJ rounds from both calibers also failed to penetrate the thicker steel. The 5.56 M855 demonstrated superior penetration capability in this test.

What were the key velocity differences between 5.56 and 5.45 ammunition?

From 16-inch barrels, standard 5.56 55gr FMJ averaged 3,039 fps, while 5.45 60gr FMJ averaged 2,885 fps. Notably, the 5.45x39mm 7N6 round achieved a higher average velocity of 3,079 fps compared to the 5.56x45mm M855 at 2,982 fps.

What specialized ammunition types were tested for steel penetration?

The test included 5.45x39mm 7N6 ammunition, known for its steel core, and 5.56x45mm NATO M855 'Green Tip' ammunition, which features a steel penetrator insert. Both were compared against standard FMJ rounds from each caliber on mild steel targets of varying thickness.

How was projectile penetration depth measured in the Banana Ballistics test?

After testing on 3/8 inch mild steel plates, the host used an angle grinder to expose the impact zones. Digital calipers were then employed to precisely measure the depth to which each projectile penetrated the steel plate, providing quantitative data on performance.

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