Test: M855 vs M855A1 is the M855A1 really that good?

Published on June 19, 2024
Duration: 20:40

This expert analysis from Military Arms Channel compares the M855 and M855A1 5.56x45mm NATO cartridges. While M855A1 demonstrates superior terminal ballistics with immediate fragmentation in ballistics gel, it significantly increases chamber pressure, leading to accelerated rifle wear, reduced barrel life, and potential feed ramp damage. The analysis highlights that M855A1's destructive impact on firearms makes it less suitable for high-volume civilian use despite its terminal effectiveness.

Quick Summary

Military Arms Channel expert analysis reveals M855A1 offers superior terminal ballistics with immediate fragmentation in ballistics gel, but its high chamber pressures and hardened steel tip cause accelerated rifle wear, reducing barrel life by up to 50% and potentially damaging feed ramps. M855 is generally more practical for high-volume civilian use due to less firearm wear.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction: M855 vs M855A1
  2. 01:11Bullet Design and Composition
  3. 02:04Chamber Pressure and Performance
  4. 05:43M855 Ballistics Gel Test
  5. 08:21M855A1 Ballistics Gel Test
  6. 10:16Rifle Wear and Reliability Concerns
  7. 12:13Velocity Testing
  8. 14:33Accuracy Comparison
  9. 16:04Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between M855 and M855A1 ammunition?

M855 uses a lead core with a steel penetrator, while M855A1 is lead-free with a copper core and an exposed hardened steel tip. M855A1 also operates at significantly higher chamber pressures, leading to enhanced terminal ballistics but increased rifle wear.

Does M855A1 ammunition offer better accuracy than M855?

In testing from an 18-inch barrel, M855A1 demonstrated slightly better accuracy, achieving a 2.1-inch group at 100 yards compared to M855's 2.5-inch group. However, this difference is marginal and may vary with different platforms.

What are the primary concerns with using M855A1 ammunition?

The main concern with M855A1 is its high chamber pressure and hardened steel tip, which cause accelerated wear on rifle components, significantly reducing barrel life and potentially damaging feed ramps, making it less ideal for high-volume civilian use.

How does M855A1 perform in ballistics gel compared to M855?

M855A1 shows superior terminal ballistics in ballistics gel, exhibiting immediate fragmentation upon impact and creating a larger temporary stretch cavity than M855, which tends to yaw and break into fewer pieces.

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