Quoted: I've been curious about this myself, is M855 as accurate and effective as M193 in a 20" 1:9 Bushmaster barrel? I am looking to buy around 500 rounds and I'm debating between XM193 and XM855. Thanks.
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Again, check the ammo oracle, lots of neat and interesting stuff there.
As for what round would be better for you, you should first consider your application. Plinking? SHTF/Zombies? Target?
It seems like the general consesus here is that M-193 is better at just about everything than M-855. Longer frag range due to higher velocity, greater accuracy because of a solid core (as opposed to the composite lead/steel core of the M-855), sometimes cheaper, and easier to find.
However, M-855 does have a few advantages over m-193. It has better long range performance and penetration. This advantage may not be that important, depending on the ranges you are planning on shooting at. Most combat, for instance, occurs at 100 yards or less. You may be better off with a .308 if you are looking at medium or long range shots.
As for the 1:9 barrel, that's actually the ideal barrel twist for the M-855. Many NATO rifles were initially issued with 1:9 barrels. Our military went with the 1:7 twist as a compromise between the M-855 ball and the M-856 tracer round which is much longer. The NATO countries later followed our lead (again).
I would consider your requirements and then try both in your rifle to see which it likes best.
-K