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.