M193 vs. M855: Which 5.56 NATO Ammo Is Right for Range Training?
M193 vs. M855 is a common comparison for anyone shopping for 5.56 NATO ammunition. Both loads have long military histories, both are widely available in the civilian market, and both are commonly encountered at shooting ranges.
The biggest differences are bullet weight and construction. M193 uses a 55-grain projectile, while M855 uses a 62-grain projectile with a steel penetrator. Those differences can affect ammunition characteristics, range compatibility, availability, and price.
For most range users, however, the choice starts with a much simpler question: what ammunition does the range allow?
What Is M193?
M193 is a 5.56mm military cartridge loaded with a 55-grain full-metal-jacket projectile.
It became the standard 5.56mm cartridge associated with the earlier U.S. military M16 platform and has remained popular in the civilian ammunition market.
Today, commercial M193-style ammunition is commonly sold as training or range ammunition. Manufacturers may use designations such as M193, XM193, or other product names, so it is important to check the exact specifications of the individual load.
The traditional M193 projectile is a relatively simple FMJ design, which contributes to its popularity as general-purpose range ammunition.
What Is M855?
M855 is a 62-grain 5.56mm cartridge originally developed for military use.
Its most recognizable feature is the green-painted tip found on traditional M855 ammunition. The projectile incorporates a steel penetrator beneath the jacket, along with a lead component.
Commercial ammunition may use designations such as M855 or XM855 depending on the manufacturer and product.
Because of its projectile construction, M855 is treated differently from conventional FMJ ammunition at some shooting ranges.
M193 vs. M855: The Main Differences
The basic comparison looks like this:
| Feature | M193 | M855 |
|---|---|---|
| Bullet weight | 55 grains | 62 grains |
| Typical designation | M193 | M855 |
| Bullet construction | FMJ | FMJ with steel penetrator |
| Common appearance | Standard FMJ | Traditionally green tip |
| Typical civilian use | Training and range shooting | Training and range shooting where permitted |
| Range compatibility | Often broadly accepted | May be restricted at some ranges |
These characteristics are useful when comparing ammunition, but they don’t tell the whole story.
Commercial loads can vary, so always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact product.
M193 vs. M855 Bullet Weight
The most obvious difference between the two cartridges is bullet weight.
M193 uses a 55-grain bullet, while M855 uses a 62-grain bullet.
That difference is enough to give the two loads somewhat different ballistic characteristics, although the actual results depend on the specific ammunition and testing conditions.
Bullet weight should not be viewed as a simple measure of ammunition quality. A heavier projectile isn’t automatically better for range training, just as a lighter projectile isn’t automatically preferable.
For recreational shooting, consistency, availability, price, and range rules are often more important considerations.
M193 vs. M855 Bullet Construction
Bullet construction is arguably the more important distinction.
M193 uses a conventional FMJ projectile. M855 also has a full-metal jacket, but its projectile incorporates a steel penetrator.
This is why M855 green tip ammunition is treated differently at some facilities.
The presence of the penetrator can create concerns for certain range equipment and backstops. As a result, some indoor and outdoor ranges prohibit M855 even though they allow conventional FMJ ammunition.
This is one of the first things to check before buying ammunition for a specific range.
Is M193 Good for Range Training?
M193-style ammunition is widely used as general-purpose range ammunition.
Its 55-grain FMJ projectile and broad commercial availability make it a familiar option for recreational training and practice where the range permits it.
The biggest advantage is often simplicity. A conventional FMJ load is accepted at many facilities that have restrictions on ammunition containing penetrators.
That doesn’t mean every range accepts M193. Range policies differ, so the facility’s current ammunition rules should always take precedence.
Is M855 Good for Range Training?
M855 can also be used for range training where permitted.
Its military history and widespread commercial availability have made it a familiar choice for 5.56 shooters.
The primary limitation is range compatibility. Some facilities specifically prohibit steel-core or steel-penetrator ammunition, which can include M855.
For that reason, buying M855 without checking the range’s rules first can result in ammunition that cannot be used at the facility.
Why Do Some Ranges Restrict M855?
Range restrictions on M855 are generally related to its projectile construction.
The steel penetrator can interact differently with certain backstops and range equipment than conventional lead-core FMJ ammunition.
Policies vary considerably. One range may allow M855 while another may prohibit it.
The term “green tip” is also not a perfect substitute for checking the actual ammunition specification. Commercial ammunition can use different projectile constructions and markings, so the manufacturer’s product information is the better reference.
M193 vs. M855 Accuracy
It is tempting to assume that one load will automatically be more accurate than the other, but ammunition performance varies by firearm and by individual load.
M193 and M855 are different cartridges with different projectile designs, so a particular firearm may produce different results with each.
The most useful approach is to evaluate the exact ammunition rather than assume that the military designation guarantees a particular level of accuracy.
For general range use, ammunition consistency and compatibility are usually more useful considerations than trying to declare one designation universally more accurate.
M193 vs. M855 Availability
Both M193 and M855 have extensive recognition in the civilian ammunition market.
M193 is commonly sold in bulk packages intended for range use, while M855 is also available from multiple manufacturers and ammunition retailers.
Availability can change based on manufacturer production, market demand, and local inventory.
If one load is temporarily difficult to find, comparable commercial 5.56 FMJ ammunition may provide another option for ranges that do not require a specific military designation.
M193 vs. M855 Price
Pricing varies considerably by manufacturer, package size, retailer, and market conditions.
Neither M193 nor M855 should automatically be assumed to be the cheaper option.
For frequent range users, comparing cost per round is more useful than comparing the sticker price of two different boxes.
It’s also important to compare like-for-like products. A bulk case of one manufacturer’s ammunition and a small premium package from another manufacturer aren’t meaningful price comparisons simply because both are labeled 5.56.
5.56 NATO vs. .223 Remington
M193 and M855 are associated with the 5.56 NATO cartridge, but shoppers will often encounter .223 Remington ammunition alongside them.
The cartridges are closely related, but their specifications are not identical. Firearm manufacturers provide specific guidance regarding ammunition compatibility, and users should follow the firearm manufacturer’s instructions.
For ammunition shopping, the important point is to verify that the ammunition is appropriate for the firearm and that it complies with the range’s rules.
Is M193 or M855 Better for Range Training?
There isn’t a universal answer.
For a particular range, the deciding factor may simply be ammunition policy. If a facility prohibits steel-penetrator ammunition, M855 is not an option there regardless of its other characteristics.
If both are permitted, the comparison becomes more about the specific ammunition load, price, availability, and what the shooter prefers.
M193 offers a conventional 55-grain FMJ projectile and is broadly associated with range ammunition. M855 provides a heavier 62-grain projectile with a steel penetrator and has its own long-standing military and civilian presence.
Neither designation needs to be treated as inherently superior for general range use.
What to Check Before Buying 5.56 Range Ammo
Before purchasing a large quantity of ammunition, check a few basic details:
- Range ammunition policy: Confirm whether the facility permits the exact ammunition type.
- Caliber designation: Verify that the ammunition matches the firearm manufacturer’s specifications.
- Bullet construction: Don’t rely solely on the color of the projectile tip.
- Bullet weight: Check whether the load is 55 grain, 62 grain, or another specification.
- Manufacturer: Buy from an established ammunition manufacturer or reputable retailer.
- Cost per round: Compare equivalent package sizes when evaluating price.
- Product specifications: Review the manufacturer’s description for the exact load.
These checks can prevent the common mistake of buying ammunition that is technically available but unsuitable for the intended range.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between M193 and M855?
M193 is traditionally a 55-grain FMJ 5.56mm cartridge, while M855 is a 62-grain cartridge with a steel penetrator. Their projectile construction is the primary difference.
Is M855 the same as green tip ammunition?
Traditional M855 ammunition is commonly identified by its green-painted projectile tip. However, “green tip” should not be treated as a complete technical description of every commercial product. Check the manufacturer’s specifications.
Is M193 FMJ?
Yes. Traditional M193 uses a 55-grain full-metal-jacket projectile.
Is M855 FMJ?
M855 has a full-metal-jacketed projectile incorporating a steel penetrator. It is commonly described as a 62-grain FMJ load.
Can you use M855 at any shooting range?
No. Some ranges restrict M855 or other ammunition containing steel penetrators. Always check the specific range’s current ammunition policy before purchasing or bringing it to the facility.
Is M193 cheaper than M855?
Pricing varies by manufacturer, retailer, package size, and market conditions. Compare the actual cost per round for equivalent products rather than assuming one designation is always cheaper.
Is M193 or M855 better for range training?
Both can serve as range ammunition where permitted. The practical choice depends on the range’s ammunition rules, the exact commercial load, availability, and price.
Final Thoughts
The M193 vs. M855 comparison is ultimately less complicated than it may first appear.
M193 is the familiar 55-grain FMJ option, while M855 is the heavier 62-grain load distinguished by its steel penetrator. Both have long histories and are widely encountered in the civilian 5.56 ammunition market.
For range training, compatibility should come first. Check the range’s ammunition policy, verify the exact product specifications, and then compare factors such as bullet weight, construction, availability, and cost.
That makes the buying decision much more straightforward than simply assuming that one military designation is better than the other.