M855 vs M193 5.56 NATO: Not Even Close?

Published on February 6, 2025
Duration: 6:00

This video conducts a penetration test comparing M855 green tip and M193 5.56 NATO ammunition using a POF 415 Edge rifle. It also includes chronograph data for both rounds. The test reveals surprising results regarding penetration depth and velocity differences, offering insights into the performance characteristics of these common 5.56 NATO loads.

Quick Summary

In a penetration test with a POF 415 Edge rifle, M193 55-grain 5.56 NATO ammunition unexpectedly penetrated more paper than M855 62-grain green tip. Measured velocities were 2881 fps for M855 and 3063 fps for M193, both below stated box specs.

Chapters

  1. 00:17Introduction & Test Setup
  2. 00:30Paper Penetration Test Setup
  3. 00:37M855 Green Tip Ammunition Details
  4. 00:50M193 Ammunition Details
  5. 01:12Starting Penetration Test: Green Tip
  6. 02:07Green Tip Penetration Results
  7. 02:40M193 Penetration Results
  8. 03:33Bullet Comparison: Green Tip vs FMJ
  9. 03:54Chronograph Test Setup
  10. 04:22M855 Green Tip Velocity Test
  11. 04:35M855 Velocity Results & Comparison
  12. 04:55M193 Velocity Test
  13. 05:05M193 Velocity Results & Comparison
  14. 05:21Steel Core Confirmation
  15. 05:25Final Thoughts & Surprising Results
  16. 05:30Viewer Engagement & Future Tests

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the results of the M855 vs M193 penetration test?

In a penetration test using a POF 415 Edge rifle, M193 55-grain ammunition unexpectedly penetrated more paper bundles than M855 62-grain green tip ammunition. The M855 green tip appeared to hold together more, but the M193 achieved greater depth.

What were the measured velocities for M855 and M193 from a 16.5-inch barrel?

The M855 green tip averaged 2881 fps, while the M193 averaged 3063 fps from a 16.5-inch barrel. These were lower than the box specifications, suggesting those figures might be based on longer barrels.

Does M855 green tip have a steel core?

Yes, the M855 ammunition tested in this video was confirmed to have a steel core, as indicated by magnetic testing. This is a common characteristic of M855 rounds.

Why might M193 penetrate more than M855 in some tests?

While M855 is heavier and often expected to penetrate more, factors like bullet construction, velocity, and the specific barrier can influence results. In this test, the M193's construction or velocity may have contributed to its greater penetration through paper.

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