Federal 7.62x51mm NATO 149gr FMJ Ammo: A Review
As a firearms enthusiast, I was excited to try out the Federal 7.62x51mm NATO 149gr Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammunition for my rifle. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this product, highlighting its pros and cons, and provide an overall evaluation of its performance.
Product Details
- Manufacturer: Federal Premium Ammunition
- Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO
- Bullet Type: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)
- Weight: 149 grains
- Packaging: 20 rounds per box
- Price: $23.99 per box (approx. $1.22 per round)
Unboxing and Handling
I received a box of 20 rounds of the Federal 7.62x51mm NATO 149gr FMJ ammo, which was packed tightly in a compact box. The packaging was simple yet effective, with a clear label identifying the product. The bullets themselves were neatly arranged in the box, ready for use.
Range Performance
I took the ammo to the range to put it through its paces. The first thing I noticed was the accuracy of the load. Despite using a service rifle with a standard issue barrel, I was able to achieve sub-MOA groups at 50 yards with minimal adjustments to the zero. This was impressive, considering the rifle’s inherent accuracy limitations.
Here are some specifics on the shooting experience:
- Accuracy: Excellent, 1.25 MOA (Maximum Observerable Angles) or less
- Shell casing ejection: Consistent and smooth
- Terminal performance: Predictable, with minimal over-expansion
- Clean-up: Easy, with no residue or residue build-up
Surprises and Disappointments
While the Federal 7.62x51mm NATO 149gr FMJ ammunition performed admirably in terms of accuracy and terminal performance, I did experience a few surprise issues:
- Muzzle flash: More pronounced than expected, which may be a concern for tactical or low-light shooting
- Noise: A bit louder than expected, which may be a factor in sensitive environments
- Primer sensitivity: Some inconsistent ignition with older or worn-out primers
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of the positives and negatives:
Pros:
- Excellent accuracy (sub-MOA at 50 yards)
- Smooth shell casing ejection
- Predictable terminal performance
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- More pronounced muzzle flash than expected
- Louder-than-expected noise
- Some inconsistent primer ignition
Conclusion
The Federal 7.62x51mm NATO 149gr FMJ ammunition is a solid choice for target shooting, hunting, or defense. Its accuracy and terminal performance are impressive, and the price point is reasonable. However, shooters may want to consider the following:
- Those sensitive to noise and muzzle flash may want to opt for a quieter or less flashy option
- Those with older or worn-out primers may experience inconsistent ignition
- This ammunition may not be the best choice for ultra-low-light or extreme noise-sensitive environments
Summary
The Federal 7.62x51mm NATO 149gr FMJ ammunition is a reliable and accurate choice for many shooters. While it may not excel in every aspect, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly, yet effective, 7.62x51mm load, this Federal ammunition is definitely worth considering.