Opinion on Fed T223A TRU?

[.30kal]

Saw some Federal Tactical TRU T223A 55 gr for sale. What is the consensus on use for Home Defense (i.e. fragmentation through stucco and sheet rock). TIA

[DocGKR]

How do you feel about T223A, based on the published results: http://le.atk.com/pdf/223RifleDataBook_vol-1.pdf?

[.30kal]

Interesting that the penetration in bare Gel is only 7.75". Am I read this correct that it loses a lot of energy through wall board and plywood?

[msstate56]

My opinion- don't do it

[.30kal]

My opinion- don't do it

Can you elaborate? I'm new to reading the results of ballistic gel testing. My goal is finding something that is close to 55 gr practice ammo (so I don't have to worry about change in point of impact) and has good ballistics without over-penetration through walls (or at least breaks up after a wall or two).

[DocGKR]

How far do you plan on shooting for self-defence? A large metropolitan SWAT team here uses Hornady 75 gr OTM for entries, but trains primarily with 55 gr FMJ--trajectory and POI is virtually unchanged out to 100 yards...

Virtually all .223/5.56 mm projectiles penetrate less than service caliber handguns, shotguns, and larger caliber rifles projectiles in both unobstructed shots, as well as after first penetrating intermediate barriers.

[.30kal]

Definitely less than 100 yards, likely within a dwelling. Just so I am clear, however, why are the results of the T233A not ideal. Thanks.

[DocGKR]

Then you don't have to worry about POI shifts at all. Pick a reasonable load from those listed here: https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=19881. Then get good training and periodic practice; personal skills and mindset are FAR more important than equipment...

Does T223A meet the requirements discussed here: https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=34714

and here: https://www.m4carbine.net/showthread.php?t=22323?

[RPD03]

FWIW, I would follow Doc's advise. Our enrty team uses Hornady 75 gr OTM (T2) and trains with 55 FMJ. Patrol uses Federal TBBC 62 grain and also trains with the 55 FMJ. We have never had any problems.
Our old boss mandated the Fed 223A, he just wouldn't listen. New boss listened and ordered new ammo on his first day in office. Doc's research was key to us getting better ammo.

[msstate56]

My opinion- don't do it

If you read all the excellent info Doc has provided, you will see that the round in question does not meet the required 12 inches of penetration. Any round, be it pistol, rifle, shotgun, crossbow, spear, throwing star, etc., needs to penetrate at least 12" of gel to be sufficient for self defense (among other factors).