M193 is, when loaded properly, nearly all the same from manufacturer to manufacturer. That said, we do have our favorites. Find out what we recommend most in this guide.
M193 is the primary ammunition for the military’s M16 rifle, but, being a 5.56x45mm cartridge, it’s also a popular choice in the AR15 platform. Packing a 55-grain full metal jacket round, this 5.56x45mm ammunition has been used since the Vietnam Conflict and remains a staple for U.S. and NATO forces.
M193 is standardized, with exact specifications (most noteworthy, the 55-grain FMJ round) and precise propellant loads. Because it’s one of the standard rounds for various military groups, it’s also made by numerous manufacturers, including Winchester, Fiocchi, Federal, Prvi Partizan, Hornady, and more.
Best M193 Ammo Picks
Best Overall: PMC X-TAC 5.56
Top for High Volume: Magtech / CBC M193
Good for Long Range: Hornady Frontier
Best Overall M193 Ammo Choice
PMC X-TAC M193 5.56 Ammo
Muzzle velocity: 3,120 fps
Muzzle energy: 1,189 ft-lbs
Advantages:
- Consistent Accuracy
- Trusted Manufacturer
- Reliable feeding/performance
Disadvantages:
- Foreign Made
When you’re looking for a good M193 option, there’s a bit of peace of mind that comes from knowing it’s actually used by the military. In the case of PMC and specifically their X-TAC line-up of military-spec rounds, we can check that box quickly. PMC produces ammo for not only South Korea’s military but also our NATO allies in the Pacific. (I mean, if North Korea were at my backdoor, I’d be sure my ammo was good to go too!)
PMC’s X-TAC doesn’t do anything remarkable. It’s incredibly consistent and reliable. That’s a good thing from a ball ammo that you’re looking to stockpile or train with.
There is no such thing as a “premium” M193 round. But if you are looking for a round that delivers mil-spec performance at a hair cheaper than what our domestic producers can offer, PMC is our pick.
Other Top Contender: Winchester M193 Ammo
Best for High-Volume Shooting
Magtech/CBC 5.56 Ammo
Muzzle velocity: 3,265 fps
Muzzle energy: 1302 ft-lbs
Advantages:
- Low price
- Excellent speeds
- Boat tail enhances flight trajectory
Disadvantages:
- Lacks advanced features
When choosing ammo for high-volume shooting, price is an important consideration. After all, the difference of a mere five cents per shot can add up to hundreds of dollars over the lifetime of shooting your AR-15 rifle. Quality, of course, matters too, but having a low cost is critical when you spend a day at the range.
These rounds from Magtech and CBC are excellent for your shooting hobby. They come at a low cost, which makes shooting easier on your wallet, but they also deliver excellent ballistics and accuracy so you can hit the target over and over (and over and over) again. In fact, these are some of the fastest M193 rounds, boasting a muzzle velocity of 3,265 fps.
Magtech is not the most famous ammunition company on the planet, but they have a reputation for reliability and functionality, with consistent defense and target ammo for a variety of pursuits. They are a member of CBC Global Ammunition, a company with numerous top-quality products and brands.
Best for Long-Range Shooting
Hornady Frontier 55-Grain 5.56 Ammo
Muzzle velocity: 3,240 fps
Muzzle energy: 1,282 ft-lbs
Advantages:
- Known for precise accuracy
- Fast muzzle speeds
- Reliable feeding and functioning
Disadvantages:
- Somewhat Higher price
Hornady’s Frontier line of ammunition was made for versatility and reliability at the range and in the field. While M193 ammo is rarely used for hunting, the company actually advertises this FMJ ammo for varmint and predator control, creating a new level of use for your AR-15.
With a muzzle velocity of 3,200 fps, this ammo brings a higher level of accuracy to your shooting hobbies. How well can it perform at a distance? Much depends on your skills and preparation, but at 500 yards, these rounds move at 1,540 feet per second and deliver 290 ft-lbs of energy.
These rounds use a non-steel core bullet wrapped in a top-quality copper jacket. The brass cases, military-grade primers, and top-quality primers create consistent performance. For long-distance M193 shots at the range or in the field, this is the ammo you need.
Why Use M193?
M193 ammo is popular among the shooting community for a variety of reasons. Most important, however, is the price. These rounds come at a price that is extremely affordable compared to other rifle ammunition; it’s cheap because the ammo is made in bulk for numerous countries, so manufacturers essentially sell the round at bulk pricing to consumers.
It’s also popular because of its speed. While other 5.56 rounds (like heavier M855) range about 2,800 to 3,000 fps for muzzle velocities, M193 ammo is usually 3,100 to 3,200 fps. It’s not a massive difference, but it helps the M193 maintain bullet stability, range, and accuracy.
While M193 ammo is highly standardized, there is minor variation in performance and cost; some are slightly faster, more powerful, more accurate, or more affordable than others. To help you make the right choice, we’d like to provide the best options when choosing M193 ammunition.
