556 Ammo Test | Green Tip VS M855A1 | Tactical Rifleman

Published on June 7, 2019
Duration: 8:30

This expert-level analysis, presented by a retired US Special Forces member, details a ballistic gel test comparing the M855 'Green Tip' and M855A1 EPR 5.56x45mm NATO rounds. The M855A1 demonstrates superior terminal ballistics, including enhanced fragmentation and barrier penetration, though potential feed ramp wear on M4s is noted.

Quick Summary

Retired US Special Forces expert Karl compares M855 Green Tip and M855A1 EPR 5.56mm rounds using Clear Ballistics gel. The M855A1 shows superior lethality via fragmentation and enhanced barrier penetration, though potential M4 feed ramp wear is a consideration mitigated by specific magazines like the Magpul Gen 3 PMAG.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction: M855 vs M855A1
  2. 01:00M855A1 Design and Composition
  3. 01:29Ballistic Gel Testing Methodology
  4. 03:04M855 Green Tip Performance Analysis
  5. 04:18M855A1 EPR Performance Analysis
  6. 06:25Practical Considerations and Drawbacks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between M855 Green Tip and M855A1 EPR 5.56mm ammunition?

The M855A1 EPR is a lead-free round featuring an exposed steel arrowhead core designed for enhanced barrier penetration and fragmentation, offering superior terminal ballistics compared to the older M855 Green Tip, which uses a lead slug with an internal steel penetrator.

How does M855A1 ammunition perform in ballistic gel tests?

In ballistic gel tests, the M855A1 EPR demonstrates superior lethality by fragmenting its copper jacket into multiple shards, creating extensive wound channels, while its steel penetrator continues through the medium, showing increased energy transfer and barrier penetration.

Are there any drawbacks to using M855A1 ammunition?

A noted drawback of M855A1 is its steel tip's potential to scratch M4 feed ramps. This issue can be mitigated by using specific magazines, such as the Magpul Gen 3 PMAG, which are designed to prevent such damage.

What testing methodology was used to compare M855 and M855A1?

The test utilized Clear Ballistics synthetic gel blocks placed at 10 meters. While not organic FBI-grade gelatin, these blocks provide consistent and repeatable data for comparing the terminal effects, cavitation, and penetration of different ammunition types.

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