First Impressions of Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off
For over a decade, I’ve been the go-to guy for outdoor and tactical gear, and I’ve seen trends come and go, but the need for reliable ammunition remains constant. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off. This isn’t just any ammo; it’s the green-tipped M855, known for its enhanced penetration and consistent performance.
I was looking for a reliable, general-purpose round for training and potential defensive use, something with a bit more punch than your standard M193. The M855’s reputation for barrier penetration was a key factor in my decision.
Unboxing the Winchester case was straightforward. The ammo came neatly packaged in boxes of 50 rounds, stacked securely within the case. The green tips are immediately noticeable, a visual confirmation of its intended purpose. I felt a sense of reassurance seeing such a large quantity of ammo, ready for serious range time. Compared to other bulk ammo options I’ve used, the Winchester packaging seemed more robust, offering better protection against the elements during storage. I picked this over some cheaper alternatives because I trust Winchester’s quality control.
Honestly, I was excited. I’ve always respected the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant’s output, and having a case of their M855 felt like a solid investment in preparedness.
Real-World Testing: Putting Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I first took the Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ to my local shooting range, a controlled environment where I could accurately assess its performance. I primarily used it with my AR-15 platform, zeroing my optic at 100 yards. The ammo cycled smoothly, with no failures to feed or eject. The recoil felt slightly more pronounced than with lighter rounds, which I expected given the 62-grain bullet weight.
During that initial range session, I experienced a brief but heavy downpour. The Winchester ammo continued to function flawlessly, even after being exposed to the moisture. There were no noticeable changes in accuracy or reliability despite the wet conditions. This was reassuring, knowing that the ammunition could withstand challenging environmental factors. After about 200 rounds, I was consistently hitting within a 2-inch group at 100 yards.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve now put over 800 rounds through various AR-15s, and I haven’t experienced a single malfunction attributable to the ammunition itself. The brass casings still look almost new after firing, showing only minor signs of wear and tear. This reflects the quality of materials used in the construction.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent, as with any centerfire ammunition. I simply wipe down my firearm after each range session. Compared to some cheaper, imported ammunition I’ve used in the past, the Winchester performs leagues better. It’s a noticeably cleaner burning round, which means less time spent cleaning my rifle.
Breaking Down the Features of Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off
Specifications
The Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ boasts some key specifications that make it a popular choice among shooters. It features a 62-grain full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet, making it heavier than the standard M193 55-grain rounds. The caliber is 5.56x45mm NATO, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of modern sporting rifles.
The brass cartridge case ensures reliable feeding and extraction. It also contributes to the reloadability of the ammunition. With a muzzle velocity of 3060 ft/s and a muzzle energy of 1289 ft-lbs, this round packs a considerable punch. These specifications contribute to its flat trajectory and effectiveness at longer ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable cycling in my AR-15. The slightly heavier bullet provides a noticeable increase in stability, especially in windy conditions. It allows for tighter groupings at distances beyond 100 yards.
One slight weakness is that the M855 is known to sometimes exhibit over-penetration in soft targets. This is due to the steel core penetrator. However, the enhanced penetration makes it a good choice for engaging targets behind light cover. It certainly meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations for a general-purpose round.
Design & Ergonomics
The Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ is a standard-looking cartridge, but its design is rooted in proven military specifications. The green tip is an immediate identifier, indicating its M855 designation. The brass casing is clean and polished, ensuring smooth feeding into the chamber.
There’s no learning curve when using this ammo; it’s straightforward and reliable. Its weight and construction provide a familiar and comfortable experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its high-quality construction, the Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ should last for many years if stored properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Minimal maintenance is required other than safe handling and storage practices.
The brass casings can be reloaded, extending the life and value of the ammunition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ is compatible with any AR-15 or other firearm chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. There aren’t really “accessories” for ammunition itself, but the performance can be enhanced by using quality magazines and optics. The consistent performance of the round ensures that your chosen accessories, like sights and scopes, will function optimally.
Pros and Cons of Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off
Pros
- Exceptional Reliability: Consistent performance with zero malfunctions in my testing.
- Enhanced Penetration: The steel core offers improved barrier penetration compared to standard FMJ rounds.
- Consistent Accuracy: Provides tight groupings at various distances.
- Clean Burning: Reduces fouling and makes firearm maintenance easier.
- Reloadable Brass Casings: Adds value and extends the lifespan of the ammunition.
Cons
- Over-penetration: Can be an issue in certain self-defense scenarios, posing a risk of collateral damage.
- Slightly Higher Recoil: Noticeably more recoil than lighter 55-grain rounds, which may be a concern for some shooters.
Who Should Buy Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off?
The Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ is perfect for shooters looking for a reliable, general-purpose round with enhanced penetration capabilities. It’s excellent for tactical training, target practice, and scenarios where barrier penetration may be required. It would also be an asset to preppers needing to stockpile reliable ammunition.
This ammunition might not be the best choice for home defense in densely populated areas where over-penetration is a major concern. Those sensitive to recoil might also prefer lighter grain options. A quality optic and reliable magazines are must-have accessories to maximize the potential of this ammunition.
Conclusion on Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off
The Winchester Lake City 5.56 MM M855 FMJ WIN 62 GR 50 Green Tip WM855K Case $24.30 Off offers a compelling combination of reliability, accuracy, and penetration. The price is justified by the Winchester brand name and the quality of the ammunition. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable, all-around 5.56 NATO round.
If you’re serious about your shooting and want ammunition you can rely on, grab a case of this Winchester M855. You won’t be disappointed.