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Quick Look
M855 ammo, originally developed by the U.S. military in the 1980s, is a 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge designed for enhanced penetration. It features a steel penetrator and green tip, balancing reliability and effectiveness. This round remains popular among tactical shooters and civilian enthusiasts for range practice and defense.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Proven penetration with steel core design
- Widely available and U.S. military standard
- Versatile for training and defensive uses
- Compatible with most 5.56mm rifles
- Affordable and plentiful on the market
Key Variants
M855A1
Modern improvement with enhanced penetration and environmental compliance; ideal for military and serious shooters.
M855
Original 5.56mm NATO green tip round; standard issue for decades and trusted for consistent performance.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | M855 Ammo | M193 | SS109 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $0.40 - $0.70 / round | $0.35 - $0.60 / round | $0.38 - $0.65 / round |
| Caliber / Size | 5.56x45mm NATO | 5.56x45mm NATO | 5.56x45mm NATO |
| Projectile Weight (grains) | 62 | 55 | 62 |
| Velocity (fps) | 3,100 | 3,250 | 3,100 |
| Penetration | Enhanced steel penetrator | Lead core, less penetration | Standard NATO penetrator |
| Notable Pro | Effective barrier penetration | Light recoil, good accuracy | NATO standard round |
| Notable Con | Less effective in soft targets | Limited penetration on obstacles | Less common in civilian markets |
Best Use Cases
- Rifle range practice and training
- Self-defense with barrier penetration
- Law enforcement and military duty
- Recreational shooting and plinking
- Collection for historic military ammo
FAQs
Can I use M855 ammo in any AR-15 rifle?
Most modern AR-15 rifles chambered in 5.56 NATO can safely shoot M855 rounds. Verify your barrel is rated for 5.56 NATO or compatible with M855 steel-core ammunition to avoid damage.
What is the projectile weight of M855 ammo?
The standard M855 projectile weighs 62 grains and features a steel penetrator tip with a lead base for penetration and reliability.
How does M855 compare to M193 ammo?
M855 offers enhanced barrier penetration with a steel core, while M193 is lighter and may deliver better accuracy and velocity but less penetration.
