The History Of The M855 Round: The Story Of Green Tip
Born in the Heat of Need
The development of the M855 round traces back to the late 1970s, designed primarily for the U.S. military to enhance their capabilities with the M16A2 rifle. The original goal? To have a round that could effectively penetrate Soviet helmets and light armor at distances of up to 800 meters. The M855 entered official service in 1982, marking a significant upgrade from the older M193 round used during the Vietnam War era.
A Cut Above: The Design Genius
Developed by FN Herstal, a name synonymous with military-grade weaponry innovation, the M855 is a 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge with a twist. It features a 62-grain projectile with a steel penetrator tip and a lead core, housed in a copper jacket. This design is engineered to balance penetration capabilities with accuracy, optimizing the round for both close-quarter and long-range engagements.
Ballistically, the M855 is designed to be fired from a 20-inch barrel, reaching a muzzle velocity of approximately 3,100 feet per second. The steel penetrator is not just a gimmick—it's engineered to pierce through a standard NATO helmet at 600 meters, making it a formidable component of the U.S. and NATO arsenals.
In the Field: Where It Counts
The real test of any ammunition is its performance in battle. The M855 has been the go-to round for NATO forces in numerous conflicts since the 1980s, including the Gulf War, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and various peacekeeping missions around the globe. Its reliability and effectiveness have made it a standard issue, favored for its ability to perform under diverse and challenging conditions.
Why It’s Iconic: More Than Just Ammo
The M855 has carved its niche not just in military storerooms but in popular culture and among civilian shooters. Its distinctive green tip, a marking used to differentiate it from other rounds, signals its prowess and specialized design. This round isn't just about specs; it's woven into the fabric of over four decades of military and shooting history.
The M855 isn't just ammunition; it's a part of history.
Wearing that subtle green tip t-shirt isn’t just about style; it’s about nodding to those in the know, those who respect the past and shoot towards the future. So, whether you're out there doing cool guy stuff or just shooting trash, remember: this isn’t just gear. It’s a statement.