M855 to be replaced in 2009

[DocGKR]

As reported by Army Times, current M855 is to be replaced by a new lead free load called M855 LFS. The new ATK/Lake City projectile uses a bismuth-tin core and as discussed on pages 5-6 of the new PEO ammo article the cartridge uses an improved propellant, has reduced flash, increased velocity, and better aerodynamics. The new M855 LFS projectile does not use conventional FMJ construction. Unlike current M855, the dark grey steel penetrator of the new M855 LFS extends THROUGH the jacket nose, reminiscent of the old Remington Bronze Point.





Unfortunately, according to LTC Christopher Day, the U.S. Army’s plant commander at Lake City:

"The lead-free cartridges will display the same performance as cartridges with lead...""

Given the substantial costs associated with the new lead free cartridge's development, as well as the increased cost per unit, it would be nice if M855 LFS offered substantially improved terminal performance over current M855...

Finally, while aerosolized lead from primers and exposed bullet bases is a significant cause of lead pollution on ranges, the elemental lead in projectile cores has NOT been proven to be a source of environmental lead contamination.

[markm]

Matching the mediocre performance and accuracy of the SS109 bullet shouldn't be hard!

[Littlelebowski]

This is probably a move to appease the tree huggers and Al Gore.

[Jay Cunningham]

It's amazing what they will and what they won't spend money on.

[LOKNLOD]

Will the steel penetrator be exposed, then? If so, any possible issues with chewing up feed ramps?

[dtibbals]

Lets hope that means a lot of surplus of the "old" stuff hits the streets!!!

[FromMyColdDeadHand]

Is this mainly because of training here in the states, or are really worried about lead contamination in foreign countries as we shoot the people that live there? I'm sure they will be thrilled that we are so thoughtful.

I'm not up on all the CA laws, but will this give them some options out there?

[ddemis]

Just something else to spend OUR money on. I wish they would just switch to a better round like the 6.8 or 6.5 and give a soldier what his heart really wants, KILLABILITY!

[Telperion]

The technologically advanced, environmentally friendly M855 LFS 5.56mm cartridge will enhance shot consistency and eliminate approximately 2,000 metric tons of lead currently left in theater or on training ranges each year.

I never imagined we'd have the first army in history that actually cared how much lead it left behind in theater.

Does anyone know how much the projectile weighs?

[DocGKR]

It is reportedly 62 gr.