M855A1 vs Steel Armor

This video provides a detailed comparison of several 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition types used by the US Navy, focusing on their terminal ballistics and penetration capabilities. The Mark 255 Mod 1, featuring a compressed copper polymer core, is highlighted for its rapid fragmentation and potential for large wound channels, while the M855A1 is noted for its extreme penetration. The M855 Green Tip and Mark 262 Mod 1 are also tested for comparison.

This video tests the penetration capability of M855A1 5.56 ammunition fired from an AR-15 platform at a Kevlar helmet from 500 yards. The test demonstrates that while the helmet was significantly damaged, the projectile did not fully penetrate, suggesting a potential for it to stop rounds at this distance, though material fragmentation was substantial.

This video tests the penetration capabilities of M855A1 and M193 ammunition against AR500 steel armor using various AR-15 barrel lengths (14.7", 16", 18", and 20"). The results indicate that M855A1 can penetrate AR500 with a 20-inch barrel but is stopped by a 14.7-inch barrel. M193 penetrates AR500 with 18-inch and 20-inch barrels but is stopped by a 16-inch barrel. The presenter concludes that AR500 may not be reliable against standard ball ammunition from longer barrels, favoring ceramic armor.

This video provides an in-depth, experimental comparison between .223 Remington and 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges, utilizing a chronograph and various barrier materials. The host, demonstrating high expertise through empirical testing, reveals significant performance differences, particularly in barrier penetration, with 5.56x45mm NATO generally outperforming .223 Remington.

This video details a comprehensive ballistic testing of the Premier Body Armor Fortis Level III+ GT plate, a NIJ RF2 rated armor designed as a lightweight alternative to Level IV plates. The testing involves multiple rifle caliber threats at close range (25 feet) and extended distances (100 yards), evaluating penetration and back face deformation. The plate demonstrates impressive performance against common threats like 5.56x45mm and 7.62x39mm, while also showing its limitations against higher-level threats at longer ranges as expected.

This video provides an expert-level analysis of AR-15 magazines, differentiating between reliable and unreliable options based on extensive real-world testing. The speaker, drawing on experience as an Army drill sergeant, highlights the shortcomings of older PMAG generations and gray GI magazines, particularly with newer ammunition like M855A1. The recommended best-in-class magazines are tan GI magazines with blue followers, praised for their durability and compatibility with a wide range of ammunition.

This video features a critique of a home defense AR-15 build by former Navy SEAL Jeff Gonzales. Key takeaways include the importance of a suppressor for indoor use, the critique of an overly complex sling, and recommendations for reliable optics. The discussion highlights the trade-offs of short-barreled rifles (SBRs) for home defense and emphasizes practical gear selection over complexity.

This guide details the tool-less field stripping process for the Beretta ARX-160, as demonstrated by a Beretta factory representative. It covers the quick-release barrel, stock, trigger group, and bolt assembly, emphasizing ease of maintenance. The representative highlights the rifle's modularity and ambidextrous features, noting its current military availability with future civilian plans.

This entry details the Fostech .50 Cal Drum Magazine, designed for Barrett M107 and 82A1 rifles, featuring a 20-round capacity and billet machined aluminum construction. It also touches upon the Fostech Rader .308 rifle. The information is presented with high technical focus from a manufacturer representative.

This video from ARFCOM News details a ballistic gel test of Remington's 158gr SJHP .357 Magnum ammunition fired from a 16-inch Rossi Model M92 carbine. The test highlights how carbine-length barrels significantly enhance .357 Magnum performance, achieving velocities comparable to some .300 Blackout loads and demonstrating substantial penetration and expansion in ballistic gel. The analysis touches on terminal ballistics theories and the unique behavior of high-velocity pistol rounds fired from rifles.