Help get me started with my new rifle

[Tom Threetoes]

Need some ammo ideas to test the potential of my new AR. It's a Eagle Arms M15, 223-5.56, 1 in 8 twist, and 16 inch barrel, something in the 50 to 55 grain range. there's so many different brands and weights a starting point would be very helpful. I know no two rifles are the same but there should a good starting point. This will be mostly used for varmints. Thanks

 

[jd4320t]

I believe the 1:8 barrel should shoot the heavier bullets well.

 

[padawan]

Are you looking for factory or hand load ideas?

 

[Tom Threetoes]

Right now I'm looking at factory just to get an idea of what the rifle will do. I will most likely reload at some time. I reload several calibers now.

 

[NyleRN]

I think federal loads a 50gr varmint round that people say is incredibly accurate for what it is. Also try Hornady 68gr match or federal 69gr match using the SMK

 

[ckcollins2003]

Any reason you're sticking to 50-55 g range?

The PMC X-Tac shot really well this last weekend out to 550 yards. It's basically M855 ammo, which I've always had good experiences with.

 

[Tom Threetoes]

This rifle will be multi purpose, but will be used mostly as a varmint getter. That's the reason for the lighter bullets.

 

[padawan]

I've seen good luck with Wolf Gold as a plinker and general purpose. Aim usually has it.

 

[johntheplinker]

Wolf Gold and Geco are my 2 favorite general purpose rounds, the Wolf is a bit faster but the Geco is a little more accurate. Both are relatively cheap also.
In addition to the Federal 50gr varmint tipped round I've had real good luck with the Fiocchi 45 gr load for pest cpntrol

 

[jgressley2003]

Just buy a box or two of different brands and give them a try. American Eagle and Wolf Gold are a couple good plinking options.

 

[Mgderf]

Most any factory offering will give you minute-of-coyote results.