Deadly In The Mountains: Building a SHTF Battle Rifle

[@GruntProof]

Ah, the things you can do in the Free States

[@ericalexandre1]

And also in a free country. 😢

[@EeZ3-808]

Tell me about it! Here in Hawaii, NO NFA items at all, and 10rnd handgun mag limit. And they are trying to ban all the fun stuff we are “allowed” to have currently. FML. If I didn’t have deep roots here, I’d sell all my properties move in a heartbeat! Aloha 🤙🏽

[@ManInTheWoods76]

@@EeZ3-808 none of us have deep roots, brother. It's only how it appears, feels and based on memory. Our original colonists has deep roots, per se, in England. They still got on the boats and did the freedom adventure. Hundreds of years later, they are all dead. They lived. Try it.

[@Alaska610ish]

You need to move to Idaho. 😊

[@ManInTheWoods76]

@@Alaska610ish one of the few states I rank even higher than my own 👍🇺🇲❤️💪

[@mtnhunter5578]

OK so here we go....I spent 17 years in combat arms units and worked as a PMC for two years and this is literally the best video I have ever seen. FINALLY someone is saying this out loud what I have been trying to tell people for years.....learn to fight in the mountains 35-50 yards contact range. I hardly ever respond to these videos because they are usually filled with hot garbage and flashy BS that will get you smoked in the woodline. Master the basics, learn how to run Irons, ruck in the mounatins, condition your feet and back, basic land nav, hand and arm signals, know the terrain where you will fight.....where are the choke points, where can you get fresh water, and practice basic infantry tactics that will save your ass if / when shit goes bad. No you don't need a new piston driven rig with a 2k ATACR, an $800 battle belt, and a pistol with a $700 red dot to drive around in yourt 70K Tacoma overland bug out rig. That shit is all fine and dandy for the 13 people ( all who have books, movies, and will gladly tell you they shot Bin Laden in the face) in the world that can afford it and actually have the time behind it and skill set to run it. That shit is icing on the cake but if your basics are a steaming fukn chud all the icing in the world will not help you. None of what this man said is flashly, instgram worthy, or exciting....but I assure you it will save your life. A solid carbine, a primary and secondary aiming system, sling and a light is all you need, chest rig to carry 3 mags and one in the gun, you want to spend extra money on something go buy a 460 round case of MK262 MOD-1C and just wait for shit to pop off. Ok, jesus Im done now my fukn head hurts.....do yourself a favor take a knee, drink water and subscribe! Outstanding video you!!

[@HoocH1130]

Amen Brother!

[@theintrovertedcalifornian5047]

As an old infantry grunt I try to tell people the same thing but everyone thinks they are going to spend 3k on a rifle , take some carbine courses and now they are deadly war fighters lol.

[@mtnhunter5578]

@@theintrovertedcalifornian5047 lol exactly

[@seagray5727]

You are absolutely spot on! And I know 50yr old dudes in flannel shirts and 7mm remy bolt guns that will smoke all the tactards out there. Basics basics basics.

[@mtnhunter5578]

@@seagray5727 Thats right!!

[@DDGVET4]

Just to add. You also are not going to engage in extended contact. It's going to be shoot and scoot.

[@MrChuckwagon55]

In theatre downrange if your fighting in the military with all kinds of assets on your side 100%. But if it’s just you or a couple of battle buddies in the US, avoiding conflict is ideal. I’d only engage if presented no other choice or to scare an oncoming enemy element away from my land. Man, I wish I had an 18 Delta as a neighbor!

[@jakemalone7892]

Guerilla warfare has been the American way since it was founded.

[@Barabbas7798]

​@MrChuckwagon55 what is 18 delta

[@Fellow_Daoist]

@@Barabbas7798 18D is an Army Special Forces medic

[@Barabbas7798]

@@Fellow_Daoist thanx

[@milesmoyers]

"Get off the flatland and get into some terrain"...StokFucious

[@STOKERMATIC]

🏴‍☠️🥃🏴‍☠️

[@ottovonapps]

Some people live in a terrain that is like a flat range 😂

[@2a0wen]

Twelve years in the Navy as a mechanic. Got out in '09. No combat. Carried an M9 or an M11 in Kuwait that I barely knew how to use. Qualified sharpshooter, though, for whatever that's worth. I only got into guns about 10 years ago. First ones: M&P15, M&P40 and Mossberg 500. I fell for every trap, gimmick, fad and goofy-ass gadget for the first couple of years. Then I got into training. Joined a militia (a real one, not those crazy ones). Tore up some gear. Learned a few things: Tritium sights are stupid - especially when they're new. Observers can see a bright green, glowing hip moving through the trees. Condor gear is actually pretty decent. M81 Woodland is the best pattern. Every Camelbak is sloshy. QD sling swivels are noisy. Empty mags in a dump pouch are NOISY. Double-stack AK mag pouches on the front of a chest rig turns you into a see-saw when prone. A 5-25x scope in the woods is almost useless. There's no such thing as QD batteries if your dot dies at a bad time. Prisms! Prisms! Prisms! A2/A3 iron sights are NOT outdated. Wear clear safety glasses when patrolling through the woods at night. There's nothing tactical about Velcro. Red lights are your friend and white lights are not useless. Dudes who are all running 5.56 or 7.62X39 stick together and make better teams. The Creedmoors, Blackouts and 22LRs stay at camp. Gear commonality always wins. Lastly. PSA, Aero, Primary are all good. Everything from every company can break. I love ACOGs, but I'll stick with my PA 1x prism/3x mag.

[@bigvon6072]

Thx

[@LKaramazov]

I agree about the Velcro, and prefer zippers, but it’s hard to find pants that don’t have Velcro, but I’ll keep looking!

[@kennethmitchell2785]

You should start a blog or your own KZbin channel. That’s real world experience that would save people money and maybe save their life.

[@GideonMagoh]

And I second Kenneth lol

[@GideonMagoh]

​@@JM7284I totally agree with 300BO. I'm a fan of it. Essentially full parts-compatibility, subs with can and supers, good performance while still being compact... Can't go wrong.

[@EZ_Case]

30 seconds in and I’m subscribed. I like this guy. He makes sense without being flashy. Stay safe out there.

[@protectpersevere2030]

My poor man’s 300 blkout build is my go to home defense tool. Also in the deep thick woods a short compact weapon that can shoot both subs and supers is pretty versatile

[@ManInTheWoods76]

It's refreshing to see a credible voice selling common sense solutions and barely even mentioning brands. THIS is the right way of thinking. Thank you. Your tactical approach is spot on as well.

[@RedForman22]

How is he credible this dude has never been in a combat arms mos, he was signal for 15 years, and a mp in the marine corps…

[@ManInTheWoods76]

@@RedForman22 he's obviously not the authority on the matter. But for $25 you can buy a book and read the doctrines of any discipline. Every Marine I've ever met can shoot and knows the basics. He's credible. Not the authority.

[@ManInTheWoods76]

Fwiw, every Marine is combat ready out of training, regardless of MOS

[@RedForman22]

@@ManInTheWoods76 yeah sure lol just like every soldier is too haha

[@RedForman22]

@@ManInTheWoods76 dude was in the marine corps in the mid 90s so it’s irrelevant, then he built trains for 10 plus years so I’m sure he stayed combat ready lol

[@cripplers8]

I’m on a fixed income being on disability due to a fubar back and work PT. I built a budget friendly PSA AR and added vortex micro red dot & a vortex magnifier. Yea I do have a good STAG AR with an Eotch & all kitted out but you can build a budget friendly AR for $600-$700 with a good magnifier & red dot that’ll work.

[@MrCobb-rq8iv]

Yes you can, I did, also a Windham Machine and a DPMS panther. All good no more to add. Letter rip sir.

[@MrChuckwagon55]

@@MrCobb-rq8iv-You can even successfully problem solve out to distance with irons if you know what your doing. As long as it’s reliable, you know your dope like the back of your hand you’ll be all squared away. Paul Howe in the Mogadishu battle in ‘93 used only irons and he was a machine that put a hurting on those bastards. Your the weapon the rifle is just the tool.

[@ElectricLarry__]

The way I see it with a nice .556 build, it's all about your choice in barrel brand and trigger. My AR cost me around 1.7k to build using a CMMG upper/handguard/delta ring kit, FN CHF 14.7" barrel/BCG, BCM gas block/tube/FSB, Surefire WarCOMP PRO muzzle device (pin&welded), extended charge handle, and a Aimpoint PRO for a optic. It's all sittin' on top of a Franklin Armory bfsiii binary lower. I say this rig would make a great patrol/duty/battle rifle and built to handle extreme use

[@hisdesciples]

What’s your build list

[@GideonMagoh]

Totally agree. I think PSA is the best budget-option. I prefer the Monstrum magnifier over the Vortex, tho

[@patriot_fox]

16" 5.56 rifle with a Variable powered optic and BUIS with a flashlight can handle 90% of scenarios. Anything beyond 300 meters if you're lucky enough to see them before they see you gives you the opportunity to move away from that threat. I live in the southwest desert and do have some distance shooting available but you are right in that when the target is moving it is a whole different ballgame. Train for everything you can and then train some more. Master the basics and you will be deadly enough to survive most situations. I also own a 300 blkout and it is a very good tool for close range work. It is a more deadly round but not as available or prominent in the wild. Great video!

[@JM7284]

The idea that in a scenario of the SHTF variety that you would be in a major engagement beyond 300 is funny. There is no hospital or trauma flight or cavalry coming to your aid. You need to break contact and run...hasty ambush...run and repeat until you are out of reach and then hope you're not being chased by dogs and thermals.

[@homeinthewhiteoaks]

I have hunted for 40 years in the hills of Southern Indiana that looks a lot like the land you are on. I would say that 200 yards is about the max in the woods, but only in the late fall or winter. And that is under full canopy old growth timber with open understory. If you have beach trees in the area cut that in half. Spring and summer its about 50 yards, as you said. If that canopy has been opened up in the last 10 years its more like 20 yards of visibility if that. The issue here is farm fields, you can step out into a field and see 600 yards (when crops are harvested). However if you find a collapse of that system of farming in the future, those fields will be the thickest tangle of weeds you will ever find. Over your head in height within in a year or two. I agree with you that the Standard AR calibers are the best, and you don't need a high dollar gun. But would add that a good suppressed 10/22 may be the most useful firearm you could own in a woodland setting. It's weak on defensive work but the bee's knees for foraging, and storing ammo. The combo of that and a 300BO is about perfect for a 2 person team. Great Video.

[@richardpate4732]

I'm an old guy. I've trained with and use my m1 garand and 45 all my life. This is what I use close and closer. I ruck every weekend, note terrain features, choke points, game trails and places to avoid. And I will never be 100% prepared because I'm always learning something.

[@briancaine9130]

Makes sense. Thanks.

[@NikolaosKorelis]

If you are that old You better start learning to use an AR or a PCC or something with low recoil This is if the garand is heavy and has recoil I don't know i never handled military weapons

[@holmschmidt1754]

I used to live in SC and you are spot on . The hardest part hing is to keep the noise down with all them leaves , you can hear further mostly than see. I live out west now and the game is different you can see for miles but some one could hide within 50 yds in the sage brush. Binoculars are more important than a Gucci rifle. Nice work 🙏🏼

[@DCHobbs]

I live in the Appalachia mtns. I work at the LGS, You are absolutely correct about a good majority of shooters buying the long range rifles/optics/chamberings. I say all the time "why? We're in handgun and carbine country". A bit more distance during the winter, but the rest of the year when the trees are fully leafed out, we're looking at a long shot being 50yds +/-. Great video. By the way, anyone notice the copperhead in the dead leaves by the target?

[@patfetizanan5055]

I have a high Daniel Defense AR15 with an ACOG has been outstanding. Built a PSA Mid length with Holosun AEMS. All rifles have BUIS because Mr. Murphy loves to show up even with proven equipment. I also have a the latest Primary Arms latest 3x prism to for PSA which has been reliable in many scenarios including training in the rain. I agree 100% with your training philosophy. One thing I don’t see many training shooting from cover in different positions and in the rain. Weather can test how well your gear will work. And, regarding taking longer shots. True of you are in the woods. But, if SHTF while you are driving on the interstate, that magnification will help to identify targets and make precision shots so you don’t blow thru ammo like many KZbinrs do with shot timers. Keep up the great content!

[@jonbarker2769]

Those shots were so slow, you were able to run down and film the hits! Incredible! Great video and makes me happy knowing I am building similar capabilities.

[@STOKERMATIC]

🤣😂

[@lonewolf77782]

I live in the woods as well. my last three deer shots were 50 Yards, 20 yards and 80 yards across a small meadow. He's absolutely right. Your engagements will be close...it also means that they might not see you and walk right on by.

[@lucasrome2301]

Really depends where you live. All deer I’ve shot in the Sierra Nevada have wide open ranges. Nothing less than 300 yards in my experience

[@Red-vn4xq]

This happens frequently, they walk right by and never see. Both deer and people.

[@hugeslacker]

I always tell my friends, spend more time at 5-25 yards than you do at 100-200 yards. Also, one thing you touched on but should be talked about more is physical conditioning. Spend more outside, walk at least 2 miles a day. Be physically prepared to defend yourself because shooting skills are a small piece of it.

[@cliffkirby8570]

I have an M4A1 with an EOTECH... It's a lot of fun to work steel targets from 50 to 400 yd with that rifle. Stupid easy out to 300 yd. We have a awesome rifle range here in North Carolina with a lot of rolling hills... However no trees to deal with but not necessarily considered a flat range.

[@ironmike7339]

That’s why I hunt with a 45-70. The woods I hunt in look like yours, even in the city most will be close shots.

[@RedDevil5081]

Sure as fck don't want to get hit by one those. 🤣

[@dw6090]

100 yards shots hunting is common sometimes more and lots more less. , but I seen were someone mentioned Penns woods, there are still long range hunters that shoot mountain to mountain, they sit glassing all day. There is no one size fits all when u get to optics, but caliber if u can shoot long range then u can shootshort range . Know your ballistics for the caliber.

[@jbeckjb76]

Great advice. Thanks. I'm still trying to find my battle rifle. Don't have a real good one yet.

[@Brett235]

This isn't a popular opinion but you can find good bolt guns for under $300 with a good optic at pawn shops. PSA has some good options as well. You can never go wrong with a lever action in 30-30 but they're pricey, even the rough and rusty ones are $400 and higher.

[@KevinPlemons64]

Great points. I live in East Tennessee with lots of hills and hollers. My rig is a generic off the shelf AR with a 4X fixed power scope. I've upgraded the bolt and carrier, buffer and trigger. From my front porch the longest, unobstructed shot i would ever have to take is 130 meters. I practice 100 meters and under since thats my "zone".

[@MiClLC]

Yep it all depends on your environment. If you're one of those mid west boys you might wanna spend the money. As for me out here in Penn's Woods, visibility is 50 meters at best.

[@carlyellison8498]

Yes! Out in the desert, too, long range sniping has its place.

[@cripplers8]

Definitely here in the Penn’s Woods mountains it gets thick very soon

[@STOKERMATIC]

Even in the deserts of my youth I don’t think I would advocate it. Certainly not for everyone, and certainly not for a “battle rifle”. But - good food for thought

[@Michael-z6f]

I am in the mountains of Idaho. And yes, across canyon shots are likely. Through the woods, where the forest service have done prescribed burns, 250 yds is possible. AR 15 AND an AR 10 for elk

[@dn88s]

I've been in Idaho and you can see a mile or you can see a yard. Just depends on how stupid your quarry is. Sadly for me the bears weren't dumb enough to make it a mile. Except for one I saw moving too fast.

[@STOKERMATIC]

Worst part of taking a long shot, is going to get your meat.

[@GothmogLives_G40]

I live in Canada, so our choices are severely limited. There are a couple of Canadian manufactures making 180 variants which are.. not so good. My go to at the moment is a SKS. Old as sin but works.

[@ElectricLarry__]

Still a great battle/hunting/sport rifle. I'd be happy and would trust it with my life if it's all I got

[@doghouse916]

In Canada I would probably go for a Tikka 308 with a 1 - 8 optic.

[@cobra1995xx]

way better than throwing rocks lol

[@sa-amirel-hayeed699]

If you get a kodiak and do some work on it yourself you'll find they're very reliable. If you can get your hands on a TNA lower for the original wk180 and an original wk180 upper, get the brass bushing and install it, change the buffer tube and stock and buffer plate to something serious, get a better handguard and it's actually a serious rifle. Ive got about 3-4k rounds on mine and the only issues I've had were the firing pin retention pin JUST broke on me last time i went shooting but its a symptom of my return springs getting weak because I've used it a lot. Replace the springs and the pin takes a minute, these are normal parts breakages over use. Ive also had the roll pin that holds the extractor in place snap causing intermittent bolt issues but I also immediately replaced the part and it ran excellent. Piston breakages are a problem that is induced by the shooter, who attempts to take apart his gun and rebuilt it incorrectly. The piston must freely move when installed properly. If you're even a little bit offset it with explode. You have to slowly tighten the bolts for the gas block and continuously verify that the piston can move freely with even low pressure, it should be able to move while lubed with just your index and thumb lightly pressing on it. It also stays remarkably clean due to the piston setup instead of the DI set up.

[@Dan.50]

IMHO, the SKS is the perfect SHTF tool...

[@clanwatkins]

There are a few areas around me that are cleared but mostly pine and hardwood trees and brush, similar to what you showed. I do have a bolt gun for my spot looking down the road, roughly 3/4 mile line of sight. But surrounding my home the best you can see is a 100 yds. In your video the camera view looked farther than 50m , but the camera can lie and looking downhill will fool u. Thanks for your work, appreciate it

[@dn88s]

Yeah I guessed 75. Camera makes it weird but I knew by experience it wasn't longer than 100

[@John77787]

Stoker always always always with the honest truth. Damn this is so great.

[@Brett235]

One of my 30-30 rifles will do just fine. They're time tested and reliable. I have several 5.56 rifles and one 6.5 Grendel Son's of liberty rifle but I would grab my old glenfield 30-30. We live very rural with dense woods and low wet areas.

[@Georgia4Low]

my battle rife is an Ruger 556 AR with a 1x8 Bushnell 1X8 LVPO an a tactical light. I may have $1200 in the whole set up and it runs great. I also live in the southeast and you are correct about engagement or contact distances. for me my battle rifle is for anything from 200 yards (fields, farms, and clear cut) and anything inside that. I hunt in the southeast as well and with our woods you are spot on with distances and line of sight. likely if I have targets beyond 200 yards I feel that gives me the advantage to change my location and elude the targets. great video

[@PhaggyJames]

A battle rifle is 308. A 5.56 isn't a battle rifle

[@JohnRodriguez-si9si]

1SG Bill Stoker ( USMC and US Army, Ret. ) : The videos that You Yourself put out are , overall , good to go, chocked up with practice, experience, and common sense. However, I Myself, prefer to watch Your Videos , with a few selected other KZbin Channels, as well as old fashioned reading and research , as well as Training, when I Myself AM NOT working as a Construction Laborer , relying on what Both the Marine Corps and Army taught Me. Semper Fidelis and This We'll Defend, Top Kick. SGT Rodriguez, Amen and Roger Out.

[@PatriotsArk]

Well said,I know that hill 😆 it ain't no joke. Your spot on about the AO not requiring a multi thousand dollar platform, Reliability and practice is everything. The Appalachia has little need for long range scopes or long range platforms,Im liking the 2x dot but have a dmr upper ready with 13x and 20"223 wylde if needed.

[@codypedersen55]

I've loved watching the progression of your channel! Started watching your channel to pass the E5 Board, Then to stay up to date on Army Changes, and now I'm right along with you in your Preparedness and Freedom videos. I ETS In a year, and your channel has great info and motivates me to get out and live a more prepared and self-sufficient lifestyle.

[@STOKERMATIC]

🫡🥃

[@johnsladovnik8256]

I see several comments about opting for 5.56 instead to get that longer distance. The great thing about the 300 blackout is you can EASILY stow your 4lb 16" 5.56 upper with the LPVO in your pack. Literally pop out 2 pins and swap uppers and a quick mag change. Run 20 round mags for the 300 BO and 30 round mags for your 5.56 for safety. Run a 30 cal can and you can even use the same can on both uppers.

[@trentenloe3186]

People act like 300blk is only good for 50m shots but i've been pushing 110-120gr ammo up to 450m for alittle over a year now. Its a great caliber but its less understood.

[@PotionSlammerGaming]

Yeah but the problem with 300 is that it’s much less common than 556. Once you run out of ammo for your Blackout you’re picking someone else’s gun up. 9mm and 556 are the optimal SHTF ammo types because damn near everyone has it. 5.7, 5.45, 30 calibers, etc aren’t really feasible. It’s not sustainable.

[@lofton9959]

@@trentenloe3186man by the time that .300 hits me at 450 yards I’ll be eating dinner! Just kidding. I’d love to hear the delay from shot to impact though!

[@brotherbrovet1881]

That's my set up but with a 12.5" 5.56. It fits in my pack nicely. 5.56 is for when I'm working as part of a team and we all have 5.56.

[@brotherbrovet1881]

​@SlimHadey you don't reload? .300 blk lets you use .30 cal bullets in 5.56 casings. You can pull bullets from AK, .30-06, .300 win mag, 7.62x54, etc... and load them into 5.56 casings. A .300 blk upper should be in every serious rifleman kit. And if you don't reload, make friends with someone who does.

[@Goldenwithaleash]

I live in semi-rural MI where there are lot of woods and farm fields BCM 14.5” EXPS3 with qd 3x magnifier BUIS Scout light Suppressor 2 point sling

[@halledwardb]

Dude, im probably finally getting old. but I mounted a 1-8x24 lpvo on my 5.56. Yeah I know, but it helps me even at 100 yards get quick hits. It's probably just me. Great video.

[@sa-amirel-hayeed699]

2x zoom is cracked, its like cheating with an lpvo.

[@halledwardb]

@sa-amirel-hayeed699 Rule #2 of a gun fight, CHEAT

[@chizorama]

Gettin old too, damn eyes, lvpo is pretty much a must, but I prefer my 1-4 for the fov when maxed, my 1-8's fov is smaller at 4x.

[@AaronWest-zo5gh]

Should do the same test this winter! Would be super interested to see how the engagment distance and target ID distances change signifigantly if at all.

[@acerrubrum5749]

PNW rain forest, between the terrain, trees, undergrowth, not only are you not making the longshot, you are probably not using the radio either. As always, excellent content.

[@STOKERMATIC]

So true!

[@Runandgun13]

Kansas, AR-15 was roughly 800 a couple years ago, now retails at just over 1,000. LPVO 1-6 with RMR. Mostly shooting coyotes now. I agree with you. Flat is for fundamentals. The learning comes when you get out in the sticks and vegetation.

[@sandsock]

We jad some youth come out yesterday with some 3 LMT's. psa, ruger. W.ehad them making hits out to 300 yards. 600 yards is max around here. The psa and ruger went down and the ruger we couldn't get going again. I brought out a home build at $445 and it was doing everything just as well as the LMT 's .

[@alitmas1390]

As someone that lives in the mountains in Tennessee this is spot on. My primary rifle is just a holo with a magnifier because it fits every function I need for my surroundings.

[@kennetholsten5468]

Love it here in East Tennessee too. Many places when the leaves are on I can't see 50 yards away.

[@ontariopreparednessbushcra8796]

I’m currently running a Mossberg MVP Patrol in 5.56x45. Bolt action less to going on to fail

[@surfingtothestars]

i'd rather still pick an AR over a bolt if they're the same caliber.

[@timothyellis596]

That’s all Canadians can have, lol. No one chooses a bolt action over a good semi auto rifle.

[@utubegeneric]

Appreciate the honesty. Too many of the younger generation are being misled and taught incorrectly about how things work in the "real world". The one outside of a cell phone or tv screen. It would probably surprise many to learn that a lot of folks are able to, and regularly take deer and fill the freezer with nothing more than a 357 or 44 or 10mm handgun/pistol calibers. If you are in an area where you are "close range" that can get handgun shots, you don't need a fricken' cannon to hunt with. Good luck trying to shoot a deer at 18 yards from a tree stand with a 20x scope with that 338. All you'll see is a big tan blur in your optic. Listen to this guy. He's spot on with the area in which he and I lives.

[@michaelnasser8697]

Yep, feel the same way

[@victorchinchillvas]

Thank you, Stoker!🙏🏽🤘🏽🔫🗡️

[@nickminderman7380]

I love your take on this. And as all of my AR platforms are relatively high-end, I purchased more high-end stuff for thinking about the longevity of my firearms if I have to take them with me in the woods when SHTF, I want them to stay reliable for as long as possible. So it's not just the expensive stuff to make a more precise shot but what you are saying is absolutely true. Great video

[@ChrisDavis77]

I'm glad someone in the 2A space is saying this. I've had issues with all the gucci gear, etc. being touted by the big guys. It's cool an all, but didn't seem practical in a lot of scenarios. It's a larger conversation than for the comment section of KZbin for sure, but I'm happy to hear I'm not crazy for wondering about what you "need" in most scenarios. Also, I've been wanting to get a .300BLK upper and you're not helping things Stoker... ;)

[@michaelnasser8697]

Well said and agree, too much BS out there saying you X, Y and Z to survive

[@dogevanzandt2889]

Poor person cope

[@delta7087]

I agree with you. I’ve always based my hunting in the south on this concept also. Hundred yards or less. Great info gunny. Keep it up.

[@rotgut14]

But as I'm in the mountains as well, and well aware of the engagement distances in these hills, long range is also very viable as well. I'm in PA, and we have our many farms spread out through the lands here, also roads and highways, and when shit spills out, long distances engagements will be necessary as well. Look at our own war of independence, the preferred fighting longarm of professional armies was the musket due to it's quick loading, but the long rifle decimated them in engagements like Lexington/Concord when we could accurately engage them where their muskets had little effect, not to mention it was a rolling ambush on their retreat to Boston as well...

[@utubegeneric]

Absolutely. This is where you need to know and manage what is likely for YOUR particular situation and area. There is no universal guideline for choosing a weapon. You have to choose what works for where you are.

[@chizorama]

Fellow Keystoner here, my thoughts exactly. The woods get thick after May, but when fall hits they open up, I'm in a valley, surrounded by farmland & a lot of open terrain. I figure an AR in 5.56, 16" barrel with an lvpo would be a decent all around choice. I can see 350yds out my back door.

[@StrategicSelfRelianceDefense]

Correct my brother. In the tactical tracking classes we run we stalk within 20 meters undetected to the hostile. In our region woodland you do good to visually reach beyond 35 to a hidden threat. Conducting range of detection measurements in your environment prior to deploying changes the game and tactics. Whether looking for lost persons or apprehending or eliminating threats, SAR tactics meets Tactical operations meets success afield. Stay safe my brother!!

[@toddak47]

My area of Alaska I can get those long range shots so a 308 battle rifle is what I run . But also have a 300 win mag if I need to really reach out .

[@jackvandenberg4708]

I was in the woods a couple nights ago doing a night walk with my pvs14 and at times decided to use my Steiner DBAL D2 for illumination. It was rare I encountered an open area more than 25 yards, and although I am very happy that I have it. Part of me wondered if I would have been served just as well with my old Holosun LS321g... It really only saw its full potential at the shore, where I could easily see with illumination out to 400 yards on the opposing shore.

[@soonerfrac4611]

“You’re never gonna see 600m…” Walks outside in western Oklahoma… and sees 3 miles in all directions. Yeah, I get it. It’s not the mountains. The point is not everywhere that we will need to defend/seek refuge is in the mountains. Even the Ozarks in Oklahoma can go from 50m shots to 4-500. Spent time in the Rockies. Very realistic to have both short and long range engagements.

[@soonerfrac4611]

That said, my setup isn’t much different. Cheap receiver set, 8.5” 300blk, light, small RDS, and a can. But I also have its bigger brother. 16” 30hate on a heavy receiver set with a middle of the road 4-12x optic.

[@tomreid5002]

Yep. You need long range also. A lot of people forget about late fall through early spring when the vegetation isnt thick.

[@dougbond6007]

I mean no disrespect to anyone but first I'm a okie I talk feet and yards not meters and klics its Oklahoma also under 100 yards is defensive over 100 yards is offensive and your not defending your killing and looking for trouble that means you are the aggressor and you are no longer defending your life or your family if it is long range you most likely do not have the equipment for it even with a long range rifle and you are jeopardizing your self and or family for no reason except to be macho and that will get you killed

[@bigtrev761]

🇦🇺😎👍You looked like 100 yards away on camera. Great video🏁🇺🇸

[@politicallyincorrectmechan7989]

Good content saying what needs to be said. In most of the CONUS especially a woodland environment as shown 99.9 percent of your shots will be under 300m, 90 percent will be under 100. Generally speaking, it's futile to set up a rifle with the ability to shoot farther than you are able to train. Magnification over 2X on moving targets in the brush , no joy.

[@bradlysutton7793]

I have a 10.5 300 blackout but I just built a 12.5, 5.56 upper with a Rosco barrel. I would actually use this one because I live in the urban area… which means I may need to reach out to 400 meters… if I was to do that with the 300 blackout I would be stressing about the bullet drop factor

[@edwardhawkey5714]

$420 SKS, $600 AK47 and $1000 FN FAL. Never needed more in Rhodesia, Never contacted beyond 100m, mostly 5m to 50m, cheers.

[@Keepinitmovin-tw7dr]

PSA 15

[@peternorth1721]

Lmao interesting cause those all cost alot more now.

[@darlsbarkley3493]

All of those rifles will cost more than a decent AR these days.

[@jd43tv56]

Throw a red dot on a zastava and forgetabout it... or bring plenty of lube for that .223 and pray the brush is thin! ​@darlsbarkley3493

[@edwardhawkey5714]

That's the thing with the 223, if you are in dense bush, it's an issue, the AK and FN FAL doesn't have that issue.

[@THERESISTANCE762]

My battle rifle is a M1A I bought with my enlistment bonus, I was gonna buy an AR but my shipmate talked me out of it. Glad I made the decision I did because they are way more expensive now and ARs are cheaper then back then. I only listened to the video and I guessed 150, based on the shot to time on target. Those 300 blackouts must not be moving very fast.

[@bicyclerider3978]

A 10/22 does well in the woods. Not as lethal but light, concealable, and quiet.

[@vittoriovuocolo2438]

Man ,please . .22 has its uses but no. I'll stick with my 300 blackout.

[@eagleflownsouth7728]

​@@vittoriovuocolo2438 Good luck finding ammo

[@wasntme3651]

Have fun trying to carry 500 rounds of Blackout. Or thousands of rounds haha.

[@joealyjim3029]

@@wasntme3651why tf would you be carrying that many rounds in a shtf scenario? Max youll carry is 5 mags.

[@wasntme3651]

@@joealyjim3029 If you’re in that situation and let’s say your spot gets got and you have to go. The first thing most people are gonna grab is their weapon and their ammo imo. In that scenario have fun trying to take 500 or more rounds. Regardless of who or where you are if there was a total collapse you would have to leave and move on from where you are eventually.

[@lazylibrarian8248]

I also live in N GA. 10.3" ballistic advantage 300 with Omega 300 supp. Impossible to know direction on subs, & would be quite hard with supers as well. Love your content - started watching after i binged the first SERE Challenge with Grunt Proof. So few people ever think the 300 is good for anything but CQB/home defense. Grand Thumb has a short where he's sitting in cover with a 300 being shot over him, & he says he doesn't know what he would do bc the only sound is the bullet flying over. I am so glad to finally see someone that understands my backyard & that I'm not in the open desert of Texas or Arizona. Thank you for this video...I will be contacting you about some 1 on 1 training shortly. Thank you for taking your time to make these videos. God bless you. I watch yours & GP videos over & over. I know how painful it is to not have your buddy there following you around, & causing mischief off screen. I lost my best friend at the end of last year that followed me everywhere. Seeing Riggs reminds me of my companion Duke. Thank you for everything you have done for our country, & the ways you continue to serve through education here.

[@guysavard5090]

This is great advice…for Americans and any others who have access to affordable and reliable AR pattern rifles. Where I am, CZ Bren 2 has been my go to, due to the lack of reliable semi auto rifles. 300 blackout will be possible with the Bren thanks to some companies that are providing barrels and other parts. Sadly, no suppressors.

[@nathanielmilam75]

X95 very short with the 16 inch barrel. Good for even inside the car and can even use on longer range of several hundred meters. 3X optic on top. Snap shooting at anything under 200m shots are good.

[@fanman8102]

I gotta say it. 300BO got a really bad reputation because of certain individuals on KZbin. The fact that their opinion was inaccurate just didn’t matter. And, yes, my go to is a 10.5” 300BO with a red dot and magnifier. Love it!

[@MrChuckwagon55]

It’s a phenomenal round for suppressed CQB and 100 yards and in. It’s derived from the .300 Whisper and was built for Delta. 5.56 is great because you can find it anywhere, I’d affordable and you can do a lot with it (avoid green tip). .300 blackout is too expensive for me personally but is outstanding for what is does. You can have two uppers based on your needs.

[@ElectricLarry__]

​@@MrChuckwagon55What's wrong with m855's (green tips)? I would rather have an ammo can full of those than m193's any day

[@MrChuckwagon55]

@@ElectricLarry__ - Because they over penetrate and zip through the enemy instead of yawing and tumbling like they were originally designed to do. A far superior round is the MK 262 MOD 1. Even 55gr M193 is better than green tip. Green tip will work, but you have to land way more rounds on target.

[@michaelcostanza3483]

You Sir are a breath of fresh air with every video you put out. God Bless.

[@dylanfrasier4054]

556 and 300 blk are underpowered idk why we cant skip308 and just run a 12ga ar w slugs.

[@STOKERMATIC]

I’m a fan of #8. It’s cheap, and you ain’t gotta be accurate. #8, #8, #8, slug, 00, slug, 00 slug

[@northjerseykevin409]

Thanks for the video. I need to get my act together and get something set up

[@DavidDeshane-ic4cg]

My 30-30 fills the bill. Great for hunting anything under 100 meters.

[@MagicPrepper]

I wish I had trees or cover in my environment. I'm in one of the few places where that longer range capability, especially regarding PID, is actually relevant. And, it has actually begun to become more apparent from leaving the flat range. North Dakota is desolate. It's the end of April and my trees still don't have leaves. The only cover is farm equipment. However, I still appreciated this advice and thought process.

[@arnoldestipona2244]

Same opinion of sgt. York. He mastered shooting accurately from 50 to 65 meter. Same skill he snipe the German battalion until it gave up. He awarded Medal of Valor in 1918.

[@dannyhayes664]

Alvin York was awarded the Medal of Honor.

[@SlickPlayss]

I like this. Im from the north-east and its very similar to where you are. Me and my boys, or "team" are pretty much low budget, but I can guarantee we can put some work in the ranges that we do have. Everything is mostly 150 yards and in. Ive been tossing around the 300 bl, idea because of this and this just justified that. Appreciate the knowledge!

[@WhiteBreadThunder-op6in]

Nailed it.

[@ARY709]

Best video I have seen in a while. Thanks for dropping knowledge. I am into my rifle with a solid red dot, solid light for around $1400. I need a can and I am saving up for that. You don’t need a 5K rifle and $15k worst of NVG’s and a ton of kit to be deadly in a rural environment and even in most urban environments. I wish I lived in a state that wasn’t soo flat and I wasn’t in such a densely populated area. Thanks for the knowledge.

[@dn88s]

If I'm setting up for a deer (which can't shoot back) then 50 yards is a long shot. When the leaves are off (half the year where I live) 100-200 yards is well within possibility for shooting. Yes branches will get in the way possibly. Now start talking about roads, power lines, openings, and lakes (ie where people hang out) 300+ can definitely happen. 600 is very rare but I know several reasons it might happen. I've considered the .300 hamr similar to the blackout as it's similar to the famous 30-30 woods gun. But, IMO, I've killed a few bears and a few deer from

[@alphabears6342]

Smith & Wesson AR sport 2 with a DD Dagger Defense and a sling. With this, I use the 1974 Chinese type 56 chest rig and a Chinese Chicom type 56 magazine holder. All of those cost me less than $700.

[@DirtMvGirt]

School was in Session Today.

[@78tooth83]

I agree with you on distance in the woods. But since we are talking about being lethal. I think I’ll stick with 556 or 7.62x51. Only because if things do go south, most of the folks I run with use those calibers. Plus I can not say wooded areas is where I’ll always be. There are several places in my area that have been cleared for farming and ranching. So getting to the thick woods is going to be a task for most in my area. But you do make a solid point.

[@tomreid5002]

Agreed. And there is also this thing called "winter" where you can see a heck of a lot farther.

[@mikemike7688]

The standard infantryman struggles at 300m and plus. A standard civilian will struggle at 200m. Most engagements happen within 100m. If you are in a far ambush, you break contact. The smart ones will learn and stay alive. The not so smart ones will be cannon fodder.

[@EngineersQuest]

👍👍

[@dn88s]

Whenever anyone tells you that their .556 is good to 500 yds anyways invite them to a 500 yard range. Yes, plenty can hit from 500 yds with an ar-15 but few of them will say they'd just assume have an ar-15 from 500 yards. Experience speaks I guess.

[@arlenlittle9200]

Got a couple setups depending on situations I use 458 socom suppressed for the situation in woods and clearing apartment buildings

[@klostinspace]

Where i used to live that set up would work. Ran a 10.5in 5.56 due to what rest of people i worked with. Did a lot of training in the woods. Longest shot would be maybe 100-150 yards. Recently moved, lot of open area. Talking fields and hills with no trees. Less than 30 min away mountains where shots are back more familiar training. Thinking need to step up to 16inch for better all around for the area. Your thoughts?

[@RRT7265]

This video is amazing. I ought to say to those who are building budget rifles for whatever reason; and brand and price will shoot. Whether you have an expensive build or budget build it can jam and/or break. Before trusting it with your life, go out and train with it. See where it works and where it doesn’t and fix those issues for your terrain/environment. Also test different ammunition to see what it likes. You’ll be glad you tested your equipment. Budget or Gucci.

[@nipsy_lafett]

I live in South Texas. Lots of open land. Lots of brush I have 11.5 556 with suppressor, 1-8x and red dot on top.

[@rotgut14]

If you have lots of open land, wouldn't a longer rifle barrel be more of use to you?

[@echosr2139]

@@rotgut14I was thinking the same thing

[@WEST559SIDE]

I’m in central California and all we have here is open land for a hour and a half in all directions all ranges are indoor except 1 and it maxes out at 50 yards

[@colton72395]

It depend on where you here in Washington state most of our woodland has been logged so in areas yes you can make a mile shot my farthest shot on black tail deer was 986 yards with a 30-06 so my point is it depends on where you are

[@RussellMadeHolsters]

Im in East Tennessee, we have a 50 acre farm that Ive hunted all my life. There is nowhere on the whole property that you can see consistently over 90 to 100 yds. I agree with you completely. Ive got a .300, and Ive killed deer with it. I have several options but the 300 would be one of the top picks for me too! I have a few further distance options as well if the need arises! Great video! Subscribed!

[@JimHalpert-v5v]

I have a PSA 16inch barrel freedom kit ar15. Flashlight, red dot, Magpul furniture, rattle canned for the woods. Nothing crazy. Hasn’t failed me yet. Good out to 300 for my needs. Anything further in a Shtf scenario and I’m not getting involved. Just walking away or hiding or gtfo of dodge.

[@eddieb1766]

This is why I love my 20 inch lever gun in 45 colt. I can sling a 230 Grain hollow point at 850 fps and really do some damage. It isn't silent, but it's surprisingly quiet. I'm running a Marbles Bullseye rear sight and I can bang 8 inch steel at 100 yards all day. 4 inch steel at 50 is easy too.

[@Larry537]

First time watching you and I guessed 60 yards. Lots of very good info and thought process.

[@PANG_671]

A lot of trees you got there around the desert alittle different many ridge lines and small brush to lay prone

[@Dudemanroman89]

Just started building my first cheap AR, bought an Anderson stripped lower. PSA magpul lower parts kit and a charging handle and bcg so far I’m in around, $280. Now for the upper and some stuff on it see how much it puts me up in price. Appreciate the video!

[@ericorasi6837]

I hunt in the mountain terrain of VA and mostly bow hunt because mostly 50yrd shot is all you can get. In the winter it's a little longer but the little twigs will always be a challenge.

[@RandySavage50]

My go to is a Colt LE6920 with a Romeo 5 red dot, weapon mounted light, and a sling. All stock internals. That's it. Practical and effective.

[@thomassmestead9905]

I live on the wet side of the Cascade Range, except for winter temperatures, this country could pass for the highlands of Vietnam. Thick, dense, brushy country. With the exception of agriculture and clear-cuts, 100-150 yards at most and 50 yards at closest. I hunt blacktail here. Never had to exceed 100 yards when still hunting. I use a shotgun, or my model '94 Winchester, depending upon the density of the understory, UNLESS I'm sitting up top of a big clearcut in ambush mode. Then I will switch to a .308, or .30-'06, ( scoped ). Since I fought in Vietnam, my overall plan if SHTF is to go VC. Charlie and the NVA taught me some pretty nasty tricks about jungle warfighting, that I surely haven't forgotten.

[@sapperjlm]

Finally a no nonsense, common sense video! Thank you! I bought all budget stuff for my go to rifle! PSA Lower, BCM blem upper w/BCM 8“ hand guard 8.5” PSA barrel sb brace and a holo sun red dot with magnifier, in .300 B/O haven’t gotten my suppressor yet, looking at a yhm resonator 2! It’s not top of the line but it’s all solid stuff. It suits me just fine!

[@Anonymous_joe445]

My go to recommendation for a do all rifle is a 14.5 psa Sabre 223 wylde for both cartridges with a optic lpvo or a a scope , flashlight and that’s it

[@remo_williams]

Acog with rmr is my preference 4x magnification. It let's me see through the trees and I.D. targets.

[@austyncaryl5801]

I in Arizona where hunting is a mix of dense brush, pines and flat deserts. I have built several rifle / shot gun combinations that I use in different vegetation and brush for effectiveness with my shooting lane distances. In the high country juniper flats its not uncommon to take shots at large game pushing that 1000 yard barrier and in the same design country use a shotgun to pop coyotes at 30 yards or a rifle for 200 yard coyotes that get hunt up. The AR platform I used before my bolt gun had a 4-12 vortex scope but I think a LPVO 1-6x would preform better for the lower end magnification over a holographic. because those yotes could charge in at 20 yards or get hung up at 300. I Like what you're showing in the thicker brush and denser forest. This landscape, for specifically hunting, bows definitely fit the visibility / shooting distance very well. In this thick forest its hard to find areas where you can see critters that are too far to shoot with a bow.

[@paladin11C40]

I have a Frankengun, it started out life as a M&P15, I bought it around 2008. Since that time I have spent some money to upgrade just about everything. Right now I have replaced the BCG, trigger group, buffer spring and tube. In the last few months I changed out the entire upper, it now has a PSA upper housing, a FN barrel, and Geissele gas system and rail. With all of what I had done to this rifle, I have a great grouping at 50 and 100 meters. All said, I probably have maybe 1200-1400 into this rifle over that last decade. The best part of using an AR platform, these things can be modified by anyone.

[@butterfinger1171]

My battle/ hunting/ target rifle is a Remmington 270 bolt action because that's all I have. But I have my goal set on getting a Tikka .243

[@Kalashnikingz47]

You make some good points sir! My primary shtf gun is my vepr rpk. Despite what ppl say she is very accurate. 50yds 5 shot group all in one hole with irons and barnaul ammo. Back up is my C7a2 clone both in my profile pic.

[@joeminton105]

Great video. My first was DPMS 5.56. Loved it. Research a little more and moved to 6.8 SPC II. no need for 300 or 308. 6.8 is a 400 to 600 meters killer at best. Accuracy is not an issue. It's also a Daniel Defense rifle to make it Totally a dependable gun. 🎉🎉🎉

[@J.O.E.B.A.S.S.]

Just joined the team, information was 100%