M855A1 Reduced Velocity | Ballistic Gel Test

Published on September 12, 2017
Duration: 6:15

This video explores the fragmentation capabilities of M855A1 ammunition when fired at reduced velocities. By reloading M855A1 with 21.5 grains of RL 15 and firing from a 14.5-inch M4 rifle, the test aimed to determine the fragmentation threshold. The results showed significant fragmentation and penetration even at these reduced velocities, suggesting the ammunition's effectiveness extends to lower speeds than might be expected.

Quick Summary

M855A1 ammunition is highly regarded for its dual capability of penetrating steel body armor and fragmenting effectively in tissue. A test reloading M855A1 with 21.5 grains of RL 15 showed significant fragmentation and penetration even at reduced velocities, comparable to standard ammo at over 200 meters.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction and M855A1 Capabilities
  2. 00:21M855A1 as Pinnacle 5.56 Ammo
  3. 00:50Armor Penetration Examples
  4. 01:10Fragmentation and Tissue Performance
  5. 01:37Curiosity on Fragmentation Threshold
  6. 01:50Reloading for Reduced Velocity Test
  7. 02:02Heading to the Range
  8. 02:43Ballistic Gel Test Results
  9. 02:52Observed Fragmentation
  10. 03:35Core Separation
  11. 04:04Temporary Cavity Size
  12. 04:16Velocity Equivalence
  13. 04:33Continued Fragmentation and Penetration
  14. 04:52Core Ejection from Gel Block
  15. 05:21Overall Outstanding Performance
  16. 05:26Future Testing Expectations
  17. 05:46Concluding Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes M855A1 ammunition special?

M855A1 is considered a top-tier 5.56mm round due to its remarkable ability to penetrate various steel body armors, even at lower velocities. It also exhibits impressive fragmentation characteristics in tissue, making it highly effective.

How was the fragmentation threshold of M855A1 tested?

The test involved pulling M855A1 bullets and reloading them with 21.5 grains of RL 15 powder. This reduced the velocity to investigate how far out the ammunition would still fragment effectively.

What were the results of the reduced velocity M855A1 test?

Even at reduced velocities, the M855A1 demonstrated significant fragmentation, with the jacket separating from the core and penetrator. It also achieved good penetration and created a substantial temporary cavity.

What is the estimated effective range for M855A1 fragmentation at reduced velocities?

The tested reduced velocity is roughly equivalent to standard factory ammunition fired at 215 meters from a 14.5-inch barrel or 265 meters from a 20-inch barrel. The speaker believes M855A1 can fragment at even lower velocities.

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