The Truth About Using the Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off
The Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off is designed as a hunting round, promising reliable expansion and deep penetration for medium game. Coming from Federal, a trusted name in ammunition, it aims to deliver consistent performance in a compact package.
My journey to this particular round stemmed from a persistent problem: inconsistent terminal ballistics with other .223 hunting loads. I needed a cartridge that would reliably put down whitetail deer with a single, well-placed shot out of my AR-15.
The packaging was standard Federal fare – a sturdy cardboard box containing 20 rounds of ammunition. The rounds themselves looked clean and well-made, with a noticeable soft point on the 62-grain bullet.
Compared to other .223 soft points like Remington Core-Lokt or Winchester Super-X, the Federal Fusion stood out due to its bonded core construction. This promised better weight retention upon impact, theoretically leading to deeper penetration and more reliable expansion.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the reputation of the Federal Fusion line preceded it. I was eager to see if it would live up to the claims of being a premium hunting round.
Real-World Testing: Putting Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at my local shooting range, zeroing my AR-15 at 100 yards. The conditions were mild, with a slight breeze, providing a decent environment for assessing accuracy.
The Federal Fusion performed admirably, grouping within 1.5 inches at 100 yards out of my 16-inch barreled AR. Recoil was manageable, and cycling was smooth with no malfunctions experienced during the initial 60-round test.
I appreciated the consistent feel of each round loading and firing, inspiring confidence in its reliability. I was pleasantly surprised by the initial accuracy and the smooth operation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a full deer hunting season, the Federal Fusion has proven to be a reliable and effective round. I put approximately 200 rounds through my rifle and also tested it through a friend’s bolt action .223.
I experienced no failures to feed, fire, or eject across both platforms. The ammunition remained clean and corrosion-free, stored in its original packaging within my ammo can.
This ammunition has outperformed cheaper, traditional soft-point ammunition that I’ve used in the past, particularly in terms of terminal performance on game. The bonded core construction appears to be the key difference, providing more consistent results.
Breaking Down the Features of Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off
Specifications
The Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off boasts the following specifications:
- Caliber: .223 Remington
- Bullet Weight: 62 grain
- Bullet Type: Soft Point (SP)
- Case Material: Brass
- Muzzle Velocity: 3000 ft/s
- Muzzle Energy: 1239 ft-lbs
- Primer: Centerfire
- Ballistic Coefficient (G1): 0.31
- Lead Free: No
These specifications are critical for understanding the round’s intended purpose and performance envelope. The 62-grain weight provides a good balance between velocity and sectional density, while the soft point design promotes expansion upon impact. The brass casing ensures reliable feeding and extraction, and the centerfire primer provides consistent ignition.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition is designed for optimal terminal performance on medium game. Its key strengths lie in its accuracy and reliable expansion.
The round consistently grouped within acceptable hunting accuracy at 100-200 yards in my rifle and others tested. The bonded core design effectively retains bullet weight, leading to deep penetration and significant tissue damage.
One area for potential improvement would be a slightly higher ballistic coefficient for flatter trajectories at longer distances. Nevertheless, within its intended range, the Federal Fusion performs admirably.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Federal Fusion is straightforward and functional, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. The brass casing is clean and well-formed, and the soft point bullet is precisely seated.
The ammunition feeds smoothly from standard AR-15 magazines with no noticeable issues. Handling the rounds inspires confidence in their overall quality and consistency.
The rounds are easy to load and cycle, and the overall design is simple and effective.
Durability & Maintenance
As a centerfire cartridge, the Federal Fusion .223 is inherently durable, designed to withstand the pressures of firing. Proper storage in a cool, dry environment is essential to prevent corrosion and degradation.
Maintenance is minimal, as the ammunition is designed for single-use. Keeping the rounds clean and free of debris will ensure reliable performance.
I have not observed any signs of degradation or instability in rounds stored for extended periods under appropriate conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition is primarily designed as a standalone product. However, its performance can be enhanced through various rifle accessories.
Optics, such as scopes or red dot sights, can improve accuracy and target acquisition. Upgraded triggers can also enhance shooting precision.
The Federal Fusion ammunition is compatible with any AR-15 or bolt-action rifle chambered in .223 Remington/5.56 NATO.
Pros and Cons of Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off
Pros
- Reliable Expansion: The bonded core and soft point design ensure consistent expansion and effective energy transfer on target.
- Excellent Accuracy: The ammunition consistently groups within acceptable hunting accuracy at reasonable distances.
- Deep Penetration: The bonded core construction promotes significant weight retention, resulting in deep penetration through vital organs.
- Smooth Cycling: The brass casing and consistent dimensions ensure smooth feeding and extraction in various rifle platforms.
- Trusted Manufacturer: Federal is a reputable ammunition manufacturer with a long history of producing high-quality products.
Cons
- Ballistic Coefficient: A slightly higher ballistic coefficient would improve long-range trajectory.
- Price: The Federal Fusion is typically more expensive than standard .223 soft point ammunition.
Who Should Buy Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off?
The Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off is perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and accurate .223 Remington cartridge for medium game. This round is ideally suited for whitetail deer, hogs, and other similar-sized animals.
Those prioritizing budget over performance may want to explore cheaper alternatives. Individuals hunting larger or tougher game species may require a more powerful cartridge.
There are no must-have accessories or modifications specifically required for use with Federal Fusion, however, a quality optic is highly recommended for hunters.
Conclusion on Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off
Overall, the Federal Fusion .223 62 Grain Soft Point Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F223FS1 17% Off is a high-quality hunting round that delivers on its promises of accuracy, reliable expansion, and deep penetration. The bonded core construction sets it apart from cheaper soft point ammunition.
The price is justified for hunters seeking consistent terminal performance and ethical kills. I would personally recommend this ammunition to any hunter using a .223 Remington rifle for medium game.
If you’re looking for a dependable and effective hunting round, give the Federal Fusion .223 a try. You won’t be disappointed.
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