What does XM mean in ammo?

In a nutshell, “M” by itself means that it meets military specification (mil-spec) while “XM” means it does not. But just keep in mind that mil-spec is very stringent and even a small thing out of specification can lead to tons of ammo being rejected.

What does XM193ML1 mean?

Each 5.56x45mm 55 grain FMJ M193 Federal (XM193ML1) round features a 55-grain Full Metal Jacket bullet, non-corrosive Boxer primer, and first-run reloadable brass casing. These rounds deliver reliable, consistent performance that’s perfect for plinking, target shooting, or serious training.

What is the difference between XM855 and M855?

Federal 5.56 NATO ammo is produced for the military and the civilian market at the Lake City Ammo Plant, which is ran by the U.S Military. Service-issued ammunition is labeled as “M855” (steel-core penetrator) or “M193” (conventional ball ammo). The civilian equivalents to these rounds are labeled “XM855” and “XM193”.

Is XM855 steel core?

M855, like this Federal American Eagle XM855, has a steel tip. The M855 cartridge is also known as a “penetrator,” a name that offers no small hint as to what it’s designed to do. Its bullet weighs 62 grains total, and has a lead core, copper jacket, and seven grain steel tip.

Is XM855 armor piercing?

Definition of Armor piercing: Basically, the ATF’s definition of AP / armor piercing means the round must be entirely made of one the metals below. The green tipped XM855 is not made of one of a solid metal; it has a lead core and a steel tip. The steel tip is for penetration, and the lead is for expansion.

What grain of 5.56 does the military use?

The new Army round also weighs 62 grains and has a 19-grain steel penetrator tip, 9 grains heavier than the tip on old M855 ammo. Seated behind the penetrator is a solid copper slug.

What M855 penetrates?

Although it’s not an armor-piercing round, the EPR can penetrate 3/8 inch-thick mild steel at distances approaching 400 meters (based on the range at which 50 percent of the rounds can pass through the barrier). The M855 only penetrates this material out to approximately 160 meters.