What are M855 rounds good for?
If you’re a regular reader of firearm news and issues, then you’ve surely come across the recent stir around the M855 / SS109 round. These rounds, commonly known as “green tip” rounds because of their color coding, are designed for use with the AR platform in the popular caliber of 5.56.
Is M855 ammo legal?
7 ATF recognizes that this ammunition is widely available to the public. Because it is legally permissible to possess armor piercing ammunition under current law, withdrawing the exemption will not place individuals in criminal possession of armor piercing ammunition.
Is green tip ammo illegal?
These rounds were originally considered controversial, as they meet one of the criteria of the federal definition of armor-piercing ammunition. However, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has exempted 5.56/. 223 Rem ammunition, clarifying that it is legal to purchase, possess and use.
Is 556 green tip good for home defense?
M855 “Green Tip” 5.56 NATO Surplus M855 / SS109 62-grain “green tip” ammo is widely available at very reasonable prices and is a decent back up for your primary defensive loads. At close-range velocities, these bullets tend to fracture at the cannelure into two or three main pieces.
What does M855 mean on ammo?
M855 is often called “green tip” ammo. The tip of the projectile is marked green to denote a steel “penetrator” in the lead core. This type of ammo is often prohibited for use at indoor shooting ranges. Specifications for Winchester USA 5.56x45mm NATO 62 grain Green Tip (M855) Full Metal Jacket Boat Tail (FMJBT) Brass Centerfire Rifle Ammunition:
What is the M855 muzzle velocity?
M855 is often called “green tip” ammo for its special color coding (the full metal jacket is painted green at the nose). These 5.56 cartridges push a 62 grain projectile designed with a boat tail, lead core, and a special steel “penetrator” tip. The specified muzzle velocity of M855 ammo is roughly 3,020 feet per second.
What guns can the M855A1 round be used with?
It works with the M4 Carbine, the M249 machine gun, and the H&K and M16A2 rifles. It is suitable for use in most weapons with a 1-in-7 barrel twist. The M855A1 has a copper-jacketed steel core, differing from the previous M855 round which has a lead core.
Can civilians own M193 and M855 ammo?
Like most military surplus supplies, there are strict rules around civilian ownership of M193 and M855 ammunition. However, the average Joe can get his hands on loads nearly identical to this military ammo, even though that ammo may not be actual “mil-spec.”