What Makes Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models Stand Out?
The Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models represents a sweet spot between affordability and reliability in the .22 LR ammunition market. Marketed in bulk packs, it promises cost-effective shooting for various activities, including target practice, plinking, and small game hunting. Winchester, a name synonymous with American ammunition, leverages its reputation to deliver a product that aims to balance value and performance. The copper-plated bullets are a key feature, intended to minimize fouling and maintain consistent performance across extended shooting sessions.
My journey to trying the Winchester 555 stemmed from a persistent need for affordable and reliable plinking ammo. I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank during long range days and could consistently cycle through my various .22 rifles and pistols. The promise of reduced fouling was also appealing, as cleaning .22 firearms can be a tedious chore.
Opening the box, I was immediately struck by the sheer quantity of ammunition. The rounds appeared clean and well-made, with a bright copper plating that exuded quality. The cartridges felt substantial enough, dispelling any immediate concerns about cheap construction. The bulk packaging, while practical for storage, didn’t feel particularly premium, but that’s expected at this price point.
Compared to other bulk .22 LR options like the Federal AutoMatch or Remington Golden Bullet, the Winchester 555 stood out due to its copper plating and Winchester’s long-standing reputation. I had previously experienced inconsistent performance with Remington Golden Bullet, and the Federal AutoMatch, while reliable, can sometimes be difficult to find in stock. I was hoping the Winchester 555 would offer a better balance of availability, reliability, and cleanliness.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the Winchester 555 lived up to its promise of reduced fouling and consistent performance at a reasonable price. The sheer volume of ammunition was definitely exciting, promising many hours of shooting fun.
Real-World Testing: Putting Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Winchester 555 at my local outdoor shooting range, using a variety of firearms including a Ruger 10/22 rifle, a Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 pistol, and a Marlin Model 60 rifle. The weather was mild and dry, ideal conditions for testing ammunition. I shot at paper targets placed at distances ranging from 25 to 100 yards with the rifle and 15 to 50 yards with the pistol.
The ammunition performed well across all firearms, with consistent cycling and minimal malfunctions. I observed good accuracy, achieving tight groupings at 25 yards with the pistol and respectable groupings at 50 yards with the rifles. There were a few misfires, perhaps 2-3 per 100 rounds, but this is relatively normal for bulk .22 LR ammunition.
The Winchester 555 felt smooth and consistent during use. It didn’t seem excessively dirty, and the copper plating appeared to do its job in reducing fouling compared to non-plated .22 LR rounds I’ve used in the past. The only surprise was the slightly louder report compared to some other .22 LR brands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Winchester 555 has proven to be a reliable and cost-effective choice for recreational shooting. I’ve put thousands of rounds through various firearms with consistent results. There haven’t been any significant issues with reliability or performance.
The ammunition has held up well over time, stored in a cool, dry place. I haven’t noticed any signs of degradation or corrosion. Cleaning the firearms after using the Winchester 555 has been noticeably easier compared to when using cheaper, non-plated .22 LR rounds.
The Winchester 555 definitely outperforms cheaper, bulk .22 LR ammunition in terms of reliability and cleanliness. It may not be match-grade ammunition, but it’s a significant step up in quality while remaining affordable. Compared to higher-end .22 LR rounds, the Winchester 555 offers excellent value for the money, even if it doesn’t provide quite the same level of accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models
Specifications
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle. This is the standard rimfire caliber for a wide variety of rifles and pistols.
- Bullet Weight: 36 grain. The 36-grain weight strikes a balance between velocity and stability, making it suitable for various shooting activities.
- Bullet Type: Copper Plated Hollow Point. The copper plating helps reduce fouling, while the hollow point design promotes expansion upon impact, making it suitable for small game hunting.
- Packaging: Bulk Pack (222, 333, or 555 rounds, depending on the specific pack). Bulk packaging offers affordability for high-volume shooters.
- Velocity: Approximately 1,280 fps (feet per second). This is a standard velocity for .22 LR ammunition, providing sufficient energy for target shooting and small game hunting.
- Use: Target Practice, Small Game, Varmints, Plinking. This ammunition is designed to be versatile enough for a variety of uses.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the performance and usability of the ammunition. The copper plating contributes to cleaner shooting, while the hollow point design enhances its effectiveness on small game. The bulk packaging makes it an economical choice for those who shoot frequently.
Performance & Functionality
The Winchester 555 performs its intended job admirably, providing reliable and accurate shooting for a variety of applications. It cycles consistently through most .22 LR firearms, with minimal malfunctions.
The strengths of this ammunition lie in its affordability, reliability, and reduced fouling. The weaknesses are the occasional misfire and the fact that it’s not match-grade accurate. Overall, it meets expectations for bulk .22 LR ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
The Winchester 555 features a standard .22 LR cartridge design with a copper-plated bullet. The cartridges are easy to handle and load into magazines. The build quality is adequate for the price point, although not exceptional.
The bulk packaging is practical for storage and transport. There’s no real learning curve associated with using this ammunition; it’s as simple as loading and shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Winchester 555 is designed to be used and consumed, so durability isn’t a primary concern. When stored properly, it will last for many years without degrading.
Maintenance is minimal, as the copper plating helps to reduce fouling. Regular cleaning of the firearm after use is still recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no specific accessories designed for the Winchester 555 ammunition itself. However, the ammunition is compatible with any firearm chambered in .22 LR, allowing for a wide range of customization options related to the firearm, such as different optics, grips, and triggers. You may choose different magazines for your firearm to accommodate the bulk nature of the packaging.
Pros and Cons of Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models
Pros
- Affordable: Excellent value for high-volume shooting.
- Reliable: Consistent cycling in most .22 LR firearms.
- Reduced Fouling: Copper plating helps keep firearms cleaner.
- Versatile: Suitable for target practice, plinking, and small game hunting.
- Readily Available: Typically easy to find in stock at major retailers.
Cons
- Occasional Misfires: Some users may experience a higher-than-average misfire rate.
- Not Match-Grade: Accuracy may not be sufficient for competitive shooting.
Who Should Buy Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models?
The Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models is perfect for recreational shooters, plinkers, small game hunters, and anyone who enjoys high-volume shooting without breaking the bank. It’s a great option for introducing new shooters to the sport, as it provides a cost-effective way to practice fundamental skills.
Those seeking match-grade accuracy or who prioritize absolute reliability above all else should consider other options. Competitive shooters may find the accuracy insufficient for their needs, and individuals who rely on .22 LR for survival situations may prefer ammunition with a lower misfire rate.
A must-have accessory would be a quality .22 LR magazine loader to make loading magazines easier and faster, especially when dealing with bulk quantities of ammunition.
Conclusion on Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models
The Winchester 555 .22 Long Rifle 36 grain Copper – 1 out of 4 models strikes a commendable balance between affordability and performance. It offers a reliable and relatively clean shooting experience, making it an excellent choice for recreational shooters and small game hunters on a budget.
The price is definitely justified, considering the quantity of ammunition provided and the consistent performance. While it may not be perfect, the Winchester 555 delivers on its promise of value and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who enjoys shooting .22 LR.
I would personally recommend the Winchester 555 to anyone looking for a cost-effective and reliable .22 LR ammunition option. Stock up now and enjoy hours of shooting fun without emptying your wallet!