PMC X-TACT 5.56 (Green Tip, 62 Grain): Experiences?

[JQP]

Who here has run any of the PMC X-Tact Green Tip 5.56 through your ARs, and what was the accuracy and reliability like?

They had a sale at Palmetto Armory on this stuff lately.

It also says 'semi-steel' penetrator.

When I did a little research, it seemed that most of the feedback was that this ammunition is of much better quality than Lake City's value brand, but that it isn't the most accurate (obviously).

 

[Z-Michigan]

It's basically M855 ammo and seems to chrono about where M855 should.

I've shot a little with zero problems. It's loud, as it should be for M855. I have not done any serious accuracy testing with it, but I wouldn't expect better than 2 MOA or so, tops. You must have a 5.56 NATO chamber (or compatible like SAM-R or Wylde) to use this stuff.

 

[JQP]

Thanks, Z.

So I'm estimating about 3100 fps out of a 16"+ barrel?

Why does PMC emphasize the steel core in this ammo? I know it's not true steel core, as in AP, but their marketing of it is awfully suggestive.

I've heard it's quality ammunition, with better case and primer quality than a lot of value brand Federal.

And yes, I plan on using it with a MP NATO 5.56 stamped barrel, so all should be fine.

 

[Z-Michigan]

So I'm estimating about 3100 fps out of a 16"+ barrel?

Only if you're in Remington Country.* In the real world I would guesstimate about 2950 fps out of a typical 16" barrel, and perhaps 3050 to possibly 3100 from a 20" barrel. Your velocities could be less than these guesses, and probably won't be more. Many cartridges provide lower real-world numbers than the commonly mentioned numbers, and .223 seems to be a particular offender for that. FWIW, IMI tends to load the hottest M193 and M855 ammo, which is available from time to time as certain Winchester branded loads.

Why does PMC emphasize the steel core in this ammo? I know it's not true steel core, as in AP, but their marketing of it is awfully suggestive.

I haven't seen that they emphasize it, but a tiny little steel penetrator is an integral part of M855 ammo (using the SS109 bullet) so they're probably just trying to make it clear that this is M855.

* Remington seems to have a particular knack for advertising velocities that can only be recreated under laboratory conditions with meter-long barrels. Witness the 3000fps rating on their 69gr .223 match load, and the original (since revised) 2800fps ratings on several 6.8 SPC loads.

 

[JQP]

Z, thanks for the fast info.