Ditching 5.56 - Why it no longer makes sense for me.

[@DasGoodSoup]

Alright let me have your ammo

[@sway696]

Yep I’ll take some too.😂

[@slavsupreme5129]

Thirds here

[@vicdiaz5180]

My ammo cans are saying hello 👋

[@joshcarlson9352]

Molon labe?

[@bossboydeuce]

Lol

[@moicus29]

"How I rationalized buying a .308 spear to add to my amazing collection", by Tim.

[@dilldowschwagginz2674]

The Ruger SFAR has been good for me so far

[@frankcastle4435]

And you Sfar is just as good as the Sig Spear and half the cost. I like Mac but most folks can’t afford an Sig Spear. I take the Sfar all day

[@stevem4783]

@@frankcastle4435 Half? It's like 1/6th the cost. Sig is ridiculous. Big time QC issues, but hey, at least you pay a crazy premium for it.

[@akilfahd]

😂😂

[@walk_spin_glide]

That shit would make them trynto take weapons away again

[@tyleryork6071]

Like others have said, it isn't like I'm attached to 5.56 but for the cost, it's great. I'm not about to buy 1000 rounds of anything else.

[@Fadaar]

It's slowly getting to the point that buying 300 by the case isn't absurdly expensive. The problem is you'll be getting supersonic rounds for those prices ($0.45-0.50 per). Subsonics are still twice the price of the cheapest 5.56/223.

[@mattwalters6834]

The cost and performance ratio, it’s great for me; the tests that they’ve done on it are very impressive!

[@davelpz3340]

7.62x39 is not that expensive.

[@TheDiameter]

@@Fadaar.300blk? Disgusting.

[@davidhartley6232]

​@@FadaarThe problem with the "bulk" 300BO is that it's the 308 150g pills in them. The 150g bullet is crap for 300BO. You want the 110~124g for supers and 220g for subs... Secondly; subsonic 300BO out of a 16" bbl goes supersonic, and supersonic 300BO out of a 9" bbl has crap ballistics.

[@basedautism2283]

I never understood this just one gun argument. It’s like telling a mechanic he must choose only 1 wrench.

[@NORTHSTARLOGISTICSLLC]

Nice counter argument.

[@slavikarlov]

A wrench cost $5

[@sword-and-shield]

Yeah, its just another tool. There is no "VS" just different tools with strength's and weaknesses. Knowing the what, when, where, and why for tool choice is the key, like most jobs needing tools for that matter.. The vid makes strong points for the improper decisions concerning the main purpose of 5.56

[@10essee10titans]

they're expensive? lol. and someone trained well on one gun will be better, regardless of gun, on the average person with multiple. ultimately it comes down to a hobby and what are preferences

[@sword-and-shield]

@@10essee10titans Mastering one tool is far easier, for acquiring mastery of said tool, but one thing life has reinforced to me many times over is, having one damn tool never gets ALL of the jobs done in life, regardless of mastery.

[@magaman3048]

Yeah but for 99% of us the 5.56 is the most economical and practical general purpose cartridge. Just buy a bolt action .308 for taking deer and keep the light weight, universal standard AR15 handy for SHTF.

[@freethinkingamerican80]

Hard to argue with this

[@elcidgranada3549]

@@freethinkingamerican80 true xD

[@steelwall99]

Why a bolt .308 when you could get a pa10 for not much and have a semi auto .308.

[@PMMcIntyre]

@@steelwall99 Accuracy. My CZ 550 American is much more accurate than any semi-auto at 400-800 yards. With the scope that I have and the set trigger, I can achieve sub-MOA at those distances that are just not possible in a semi-auto platform without spending a ton of money.

[@boomerisadog3899]

​@@steelwall99 I'm with you on the semiautomatic .308 over a bolt gun. The PA-10 is an awesome low cost option but they are pretty heavy compared to most hunting oriented bolt guns. The Ruger SFAR, if it holds up well over the next few years, may end up filling that battle rifle sized hole in my safe.

[@markknivila8383]

Back in the mid 80's, I invested so heavily in the .308 and 5.56, that now, it would be financially crazy to me to switch to anything else! And to be honest, both calibers have served me well. Great video, brother!

[@michaelball760]

A family member did that with .308 in the 80's and 90's. With today's prices, he could possibly retire a millionaire selling it 😂

[@solidrockofjesuschristmini2423]

I can't go anything else bc that's what I got 5.56, it's good all around and hasn't failed me, I get the quiet part with .300 sub but after that I can't justify switching from 5.56

[@JT15C]

@@solidrockofjesuschristmini2423throw a $200 300blk upper in your arsenal… prob solved

[@aintchorrollmodel182]

@@JT15C and a reloading press

[@Rick-ux5ku]

@@JT15C prefer a 300 hamr.

[@ChairmanKimchi]

I wish I was financially rich enough where I can even consider paying for something more expensive than 9mm or 223/556.

[@phillipcraddock8248]

AMEN my thoughts also

[@DasGoodSoup]

Im thinking of a bolt 308 24" barrel but that would be a real wrench in my logistics atm

[@richb.4374]

Exactly.

[@bintjbeil7892]

7.62x39: 😭

[@angrygnome6913]

Yeah this was literally just a bragging video

[@donw2105]

5.56, 300 AAC, and .308. My holy trinity for reloading and stock piling. 5.56 brass feeds the AAC (I convert it) and I get most for free at the local range. The 110 -150 grain .308 bullets feed both the 300AAC and .308. Same 30 caliber cans for all 3.

[@x0xCRUSHERx0x]

BIG SMART!

[@burtonkephart6239]

Daaaang didn’t think of that!! I have 308 in bolt action , 300 BO in AR and 556 in mini 14. Have stocked up on all but 308. I don’t reload though but good idea .

[@mortem-tyrannis]

Noice

[@Censoredagain7881]

The 300 BO is a .308 round with just a little less powder. What I like about the .308 round in a bolt action or an AR is the huge variety of bullets weights. From 120 grain to 220 grain. + or -.

[@tommylitchfield3450]

@@Censoredagain7881 The 300 does not have "just a little less powder" than the .308. The 300 has less than half the powder capacity. BIG difference there.

[@malignantredneck6194]

I had held out on getting a 556 ar. One thing you need to consider is 9mm and 556/223 are statistically the most widely owned rounds in United States households, in SHTF. That’s something to be strongly considered.

[@OdhinnAwake]

There won't be an SHTF. There'll be a bunch of tough talking internet war heroes who fall like flies to Fed infiltrated "militias."

[@musicman1eanda]

Yeah I bought an AR in 300blk and it was my only AR for over 3 years. I eventually switched to 556 because EVERYBODY has it and I got tired of reloading 300blk. Buying ammo is so much more satisfying.

[@litsci4690]

Only if you're too stupid not to have stocked your own ammo.

[@jeepinintexas6215]

​@@musicman1eandaand with an AR, a simple upper receiver swap is all that's necessary.

[@imafreakinhistorian2169]

308 not far behind

[@pauljconroysr4080]

I believe and think the .308 is one of the most reliable cartridges that has been out there for distance power and functionality

[@johnstevens1575]

It should be noted that the Turks retained it as their choice in fighting rifle calibers when they transitioned to an AR-based rifle system. They'd been very pleased with the terminal ballistics offered by their G3's and refused to downgrade to a 5.56mm based system.

[@MrTangolizard]

@@johnstevens1575to be fair Turkey has been fighting Kurds in the mountains and semi desert environments where the ranges are often more than 500 metres if u look at Ukraine when it comes to actual rifle fights there pretty close and 5.56 /5.45 is really capable

[@binary132]

@@MrTangolizard not everyone in the United States lives in a suburb

[@MrTangolizard]

@@binary132 n they don’t but I also think if your shooting at people more than 500 metres away it’s probably not for self defence

[@williamwatkins2538]

@@MrTangolizardit could be, 308 is also way more effective for hunting

[@sunkist3575]

I live in northern Minnesota. I hunted whitetail with 30-30 lever rifles when I was a kid with mixed success. I got a .308 bolt action when I was in my 30's. Since then it has been one bullet equals one deer. The long range capability and the knock down power is proven. BTW I was in my thirties 40 years ago.

[@dennisleighton2812]

Agreed, IF you have a single use for a rifle in mind - hunting. I hunted for many years with a Musgrave Vrystaat .270 Win, and never regretted it. It was lethal, even with my modest skill level. But, most of these discussions revolve around more diverse needs, which require other capabilities as well!

[@winstonjones7519]

Great advice sir. I am a .308 fan too.

[@bobhill3941]

Dad's story mirrors yours except he used a Winchester 88.

[@BobBobinski425]

I’ve always been a 12ga slug kinda guy for deer, but here in Northern Wisconsin I hunt some pretty thick woods that allows for that kind of close range.

[@bobhill3941]

@@BobBobinski425 Dad mostly hunted in Muskoka in Northern Ontario (a little in New York State) it was close too within 50 yards. He only used his 1100 with slugs in the shotgun only areas.

[@anthonyjaparks]

The Wal-Mart here no longer sells 223-5.56 and has not done so for 2-3 years. Randleman, NC

[@darklight4815]

Same here in SC ....none of the "scary" calibers

[@stephenwinchester6668]

They still sell 7.62x51 here (Houston)

[@robertdaone]

Wally World sucks azz. They do not want to have anything to do with the back, scary gun. They even got rid of 9mm ammo.

[@mosinshooter2475]

No .223/5.56 at Walmart. No pistol cartridges either. Florida. Since Oct 2020.

[@pliny6842]

Not surprised. With their primary shareholder being blackrock now, there are far better sources to obtain your freedom devices from

[@j.crizzle8942]

And it’s only $8000, double stamped (+$400) and sold in VERY limited numbers… Great recommendation!

[@REPR100]

Hide the money y’all, there’s poor people around

[@willo7734]

You must be new here. This is youtube, where everybody has endless arsenals and ammo. There’s also the Ruger SFAR which works great for a 308 rifle at 1/8 the cost.

[@vTRage]

He’s full of shit. And trying to pump sales for his shop. That’s it.

[@ToastbackWhale]

Then choose a different rifle. This isn't a rifle recommendation, it's an opinion piece.

[@joebarcala8460]

Hahaha. My thoughts exactly

[@davidnancarrow6158]

The 308 has been my go to general purpose rifle for 40 years. It does what it does pretty well and one thing not mentioned is barrel life. The ideal if you can afford it would be to have a 5.56 and 308-both ammo types are available just about anywhere.

[@PureCountryof91]

​@@raykettel1837nah. I bought an Adam's arms piston.308. 1300 back in 2018

[@davidnancarrow6158]

@@raykettel1837 I never owned a 5.56 although I was issued one...an M16A1 built by the Hydramatic division of General Motors. Was not impressed with its range but all we had was the M193 ball. Todays stuff is supposed to be better.

[@rascalmatt6713]

@@davidnancarrow6158 77 grain OTM's are the business. I get 0.5" routinely with my Noveske SPR. This is just IMI military long range ammo. My screen icon is a 0.4" 5 shot group i shot with said Noveske SPR. I hit a milk jug at 1,000 yards in 3 shots with that rifle. Today i hit a milk jug in 5 shots with that ammo and my DDM4V11Pro. At 800 yards with the DDM4V11Pro (18" STW barrel) you're looking at 1,195fps and 244 ft/lbs of energy. That's still super sonic and that will penetrate your skull or thorax easily and kill you. You'd develop a pneumothorax at a minimum if hit in the chest and vital vessels/organs were missed.

[@johnjanik1430]

Amen! If I could only have one rifle it would be a .308 (and I live in Alaska!). I have two, one of which is a good old fashioned M-14.

[@mandarinandthetenrings2201]

Think the new round the 6.8 using "True Velocity" polymer cased ammo. It has a same power of a 6.8 but uses 20% less gunpower with same velocity as a brass case ammo. That one that think has the most potential.

[@scottyh.6992]

I have always liked .308. It seems that several companies have worked out the issues that the AR-10 has had, so it is more appealing in that respect also.

[@tedarcher9120]

Why 308 tho?

[@christofonobrown3659]

@@tedarcher9120wealth of knowledge regarding reloading for a start. Solid for hunting most things within 600 yards. Plenty of firearms to choose from.

[@SlowMenWorking]

Yeah been thinking of getting the Ruger SFAR. I want a lightweight .308 that won't break the bank

[@scottyh.6992]

@@tedarcher9120 For me, I have a good supply of it, and it is easy to find right now, I find pretty good deals on .308 regularly.

[@heroinmom153]

We have an M14. Proven track record, reliability, and power. It's my go-to. That .308 is pure power.

[@rampantcolt]

After many gunfights in Iraq, I will stick with my 5.56. Never had a problem in windy days in war or a range. And now with interchangeable uppers, I have a tool box.

[@USAVET11B20]

been there myself and I totally agree

[@justinbang6025]

Probably because you used 77 grain with a 1:7 barrel standard military issue. Much more stable

[@Bristecom]

@@justinbang6025 Yep, a quality heavier grain longer bullet (like 77 grain) with the proper twist rate should give acceptable results.

[@sicottish]

@@justinbang6025 nope...5 deployments. 62gr green tip, 1:7, 16in barrel. Quit overthinking it.

[@michaelparton3493]

I use the M855 green tip with a 20” barrel for hunting wild hogs, absolutely devastating round, so far all one shot kills on multiple hogs.

[@Ben-ry1py]

I love the 308, practical for many uses. I live in the Appalachian mountains, and would almost never shoot past 200 yards...most deer are shot around 50 yards around here. My AR chambered in 7.62x39 is a perfect deer gun for this area. I'd love to have a place to shoot longer ranges. Your battle rifle is very nice. Most of us would have to take out a personal loan to get one of those.

[@ArizonaBlazer]

You got an AR chambered in 7.62? That is, like, an AGGRESSIVELY anti AK purchase. 😂 I don't understand it.

[@vicnighthorse]

@@ArizonaBlazer My first AR-15 in '93 or '94 was in 7.62x39. If you were a soldier (or former) comfortable with the M16 and wanted to hunt deer with a semi-auto, it made some sense. There really wasn't much of a choice of chamberings back then - maybe just the two - I don't clearly remember. Mine was a factory Colt and unfortunately I never got it to feed as reliably as I would have liked.

[@Ben-ry1py]

@@vicnighthorse Nice, I think they've come a long ways since the 90s. I have a ks47 from PSA that takes AK mags.

[@tskirchman]

I love my AR in 7.62x39. It packs a punch and works great for me here in the mountains of NC.

[@Ben-ry1py]

@@ArizonaBlazer Don't understand? It's the best of both worlds. The ergonomics and accuracy of the AR with the better cartridge of the AK. I like AKs, but I'm certainly not a purist. I might get one one day just for fun, but I'll take my KS47 from PSA over an AK every day.

[@billrossignon8621]

I agree. If you are forced to move out to a rural property for safety during civil unrest a 7.62 makes sense for bringing in some food and defence. I like that you said avoiding a gunfight is better than an all out firefight.

[@rosomak8244]

Gunfights are a "group sport". When you are on your own a bigger caliber is way more practical.

[@lohikarhu734]

a friend of mine lived in rural Tennessee, and he pointed out that the fenceposts along hi driveway made good range points...I recollect that he figured that suggesting that someone "stay away" was preferable to CQB... I believe that he found 7.62 NATO was quite convincing, and. 22LR was quiet enough to not attract attention, but enough for small game and birds.... one gun? nope.

[@PlayingWithFireOutdoors]

@@lohikarhu734 In Canada no suppressed rifles/handguns, but a subsonic round yup! I haven't jumped on the 300 BO bandwagon yet, but the 8.6 BLK looks VERY interesting.

[@jordendavid8992]

@@rosomak8244plus you shouldn’t be venturing towards areas where you think extended fighting might happen

[@achillesiq491]

556 is very available and carry weight is less than 300 blk out or 308. Toss up would be 7.62x39 (IMO) the best intermediate cartridge, just as good if not better than 300 blk out and available, cheaper and goes bang even when wet for weeks or months...even years...can be in AR, AK, SKS, and shoots very well (sub MOA) in my Ruger American Ranch using 5, 10, 20 and even 30rd Ruger Mini 30 mags.

[@RacerJim0]

Unfortunately I found that milsurp 7.62x39 can’t last 15 years in a damp location in an ammo can with a hole in it…. But that the powder and bullets from it can be reloaded into new primered cases and fired just as good.

[@DasGoodSoup]

@@RacerJim0why dont you literally put the new cans under water and put bricks on top of them and come back in 3 days and see if theres a drop inside them

[@tedhodge4830]

7.62x39 and .300 both have bad to mediocre ballistics across the board. .300 just costs 2 to 3 times as much and you can put it in an ar.

[@Saabotage05]

Seriously, I feel like 7.62x39 is underlooked a lot more than it should be in the AR platform. I love my Windham SRC after throwing some fun aftermarket stuff at it. Being Norma and Freedom Munitions is now manufacturing brass ammo at under 50 cents a round I'm not certain why more people aren't jumping on it.

[@jameslee4328]

Even at intermediate 77gr 556 works decently in a shtf situation. My only reason to have 300blk is subsonic. 556 like you said is lighter cheaper and easier to find than the others, and when compared to others they only ever use 55 or 62gr. 77gr does pretty well. A 2 legged varmint stealing food isn't nearly as tough as a buck.

[@lazzerbassdrop8585]

I love your home setup with the range right out the back window. It looks like heaven to me.

[@i.j.f.2200]

With the fudd rules posted on the wall lol

[@jpettit27]

In my area, outside of towns, it’s very hard to get a shot beyond 100 yards due to hills and heavily forested areas. The only other exception would be if you were trying to shoot across someone’s pasture. 5.56 works fine here.

[@user-mn8lz7gf6d]

roads my man

[@pumpybenis3122]

So you are saying you will never leave "your area?" The US has a drastic topographic change in very little distance. Don't silo yourself.

[@josephmeador1529]

@@pumpybenis3122 I live in a similar area ... I can go a yard into the treeline and you'd never know I was there. I can get by with a 12 Gauge, a folding knife, and a lighter. I can't think of any reason I'd want to go away from areas with water, abundant game, and edible plants, and try to go across Kansas or the Mojave. I got two does and 3 fawns, a rabbit warren, and a groundhog family nesting in the blackberry thickets in my backyard. I could take them with a baseball bat. Y'all can keep your "wide open spaces".

[@litsci4690]

Weak, even with a 20" barrel. Ask those who've been in combat.

[@Alcyeragraeth]

As just a simple civilian I've always picked in order of ammo ubiquity. 12G>9mm>5.56 and I have been wanting a 308 next.

[@65stang98]

throw in a .22, .38, and .45 you are guaranteed to be able to find ammo for at least one of em.

[@RandomInternetProfile]

@@65stang98 did you mean.357 so you can use .38 as well

[@65stang98]

yes sir can do that too. which i have a couple strictly .38s as well. @@RandomInternetProfile

[@1fast72nova]

12ga > 556 > 9mm Shotgun, rifle, pistol Now I'm deciding 22lr vs 22wmr vs 5.7 ... Any input? I figure need a squirrel and rat gun but with the UN going to 5.7x28 maybe that is a better choice

[@65stang98]

i have all of them lol 5.7 is cool but not cheap @@1fast72nova

[@Gola308]

308 has been my "go to for about everything" round for about 11+ years now. Super accurate, plentiful, and decent cost. I've taken two cow elk with it at ranges around 50-125 yards with 165 grain ammo, and two antelope at 250 and 325 yards with 125 grain reduced recoil ammo using a Thompson Center bolt action rifle and a Simmons 3x12 scope. It's a versatile cartridge that's the "right tool" for most jobs. Plus, it's just plain fun to shoot in a Standard M1A, C308, and Bergara B-14 HMR!

[@MrTennc]

With the history of 5.56 in many war zones, it is hard to believe it could not suffice for any of my self protection needs. Use a bolt action precision rifle in a larger caliber for hunting or as a sniper rifle if it ever came to that.

[@miked.7722]

Yep- I have a .308 Savage Scout Rifle with 18" barrel and 3x9 Nikon scope which is plenty accurate for hunting at medium and shorter distances, I also have a SA Saint Victor in .556 with 1x4 scope. I wouldn't mind having a semiautomatic .308 but the Savage will do me fine for hunting and or longer range SHTF. If I had to settle on just one gun I would have a tough time choosing even though I like the idea of the 308 I can carry so much more ammo in .556/223

[@lazzerbassdrop8585]

Obviously, but this video is about having one gun for shtf. He needs to protect his family and hunt deer with that one weapon.

[@Ungood-jl5ep]

@@lazzerbassdrop8585 a very asinine concept in the United States circa 2024.

[@lazzerbassdrop8585]

@@Ungood-jl5ep cool story bro

[@slimeyslug12]

@@Ungood-jl5ep How is that asinine? We already live in a fallen state if you haven't noticed. SHTF is the only logical conclusion to the leftist satanic agenda.

[@TimothyWhite-rq5eo]

.223/5.56 is more than suffice for what my intended use for these rounds are which is self defense. I am happy that they are in abundance on the store shelves.

[@dennisleighton2812]

Do you realize just how quickly 12 million scared ,223mm owners will empty gunshop shelves? One day, maybe 2? With the military grabbing TOTAL production, you'll be no better off than other calibres. So, chances are, you'll also be stuck with what you have in your storage, just like everyone else. This dynamic is the major down side of so many people owning guns!

[@HoofPrintsDR]

I came to the same conclusion about a year ago and switched to 308. Long shots here in Arizona and the knock down as well as logistics made 308 a great choice.

[@levicole8677]

Besides affordability for the average person.

[@washingtoncommandcenter5541]

I'm still firmly in camp 6.5 Grendel, thanks in large part to you and your testing. I wish it was cheaper, & more accessible, but I guess preparation helps overcome those problems. I'm also still in love with the XCR, but if I had eyes for another the SIg would be a top contender.

[@BullyOG]

Love Grendel as well. My favorite rifle caliber.

[@robinsok]

I have one too and it's a great round. Maybe the best ever designed for the 15 sized platform. But it is expensive, and more problematic, very hard to find most of the time.

[@michaelblacktree]

I've been seriously looking at 6.5 Grendel. It looks like an excellent alternative to 5.56, but is still in "boutique cartridge" territory. Hopefully it becomes more popular, so the price and availability improve.

[@dickfish6045]

I love 6.5 grendel but it needs a dedicated ar built for it just like the lwrc 6.8. The magazine reliability just isn’t there.

[@ravissary79]

It used to be pretty cheap. Import laws seem to have really effected it.

[@matthewsalomone3800]

I think it's a good thing to have an assortment of guns for different purposes that shoot different calibers. If for some reason we end up in an apocalyptic type setting, you're going to want a gun that shoots 556 and 9mm for self-defense because it's going to be easiest to find stockpiles of that ammo, so these are still going to be the primary go to guns for a long long time.

[@burtonkephart6239]

Indeed!! I’m not crazy about 556 either but have it in one rifle with well under 1000 rnds stock. Plus the 9mm I have in many pistols in over 1000 rnds. Plus 30 carbine similar and 300 BO similar and then 308 with hardly only a few rnds. But overall I think those are all common calibers that may be possible to obtain it trade

[@bigtechnazis3554]

Nato rounds in general if located in western nations. NATO rounds consists of 5.56 NATO/223 Remington, 7.62x51 NATO/308 Winchester, 9x19 NATO/9mm Luger. If your located in the United States 45ACP is also very common.

[@notsure7874]

@@bigtechnazis3554 45acp was common in the 80's. I see more 10mm than 45acp, and 20+ years ago it was 40 s&w. What I learned during the most recent shortages - is that the NATO calibers are gone first, and could be the last to come back. They have to fill govt contracts before they fill store shelves I guess. Also everybody with a swingin trigger finger is hunting it down to hoard. You know what I did see is random weird stuff you might find your grandpas hunting rifle chambered in. You could find 7mm08 or 243 a lot easier than 5.56 or 308. All the "easy to find because theres so much of it" ammo was GONE. But that's kind of irrelevant, you should have a ton of that stuff BEFORE there's a problem.

[@daftpanda6533]

@matthewsalomone It's likely you will be able to just pick up someone elses 5.56 and 9mm bc they tried to attack your defensive position when you have a .308 (or bigger) and can neutralize them at greater range. I figure normal decent folks will band together to form communities (and defend them) where less scrupulous people will likely band together to take from others.

[@LuckyFortunes-b3q]

all the prepper videos seem to brainwash everyone into a battle royale instead of helping each other start a farm or setup electrical power.

[@spartanxlv]

I used to be convinced that 9mm and 5.56 were suboptimal for their respective purposes given the plethora of more powerful options available. However, after years of shooting and learning, I have gained a new appreciation for these cartridges and have gone BACK to using them for my primary guns (from 357 Sig and 300 Blk). They do just about everything you could REALISTICALLY need, without excess weight, recoil, or cost. Sure, I would still want a larger cartridge for hunting, where the idea is to utilize only a single, precise shot. Fortunately, we aren't limited to just one, but if I'm grabbing a rifle for SHTF, 5.56 wins.

[@lawless911sc]

"You know since I own a lot of super cars and mostly drive on long straight roads I've decided that, really, 93 octane is the fuel that works best for me. There is 100 octane but the conversion kits for that aren't even available to the public yet so for now it's 93. 87 just doesn't make sense for me anymore...." Cool story bro.

[@GoongisKahn]

Rich kid problems

[@BobBobinski425]

“I had to shoot deer to feed my family during covid because meat was expensive.” “I recommend a spear or scar in .308.”

[@cptnscoob]

Right?? Lemme use my 5 grand rifle to save 30 cents instead of using a 500 dollar bolt action hunting rifle like every other normal person

[@dub123boy]

​@@cptnscoobHe should recommend a SFAR.

[@kevmoful]

Out of touch to say the least . Wealthy people just forget what normal is after a while.

[@Deadi12]

Did you miss the part where he said one rifle? Sure you can have a different rifle for every purpose, but that wasn't the point of this video.

[@BobBobinski425]

@@Deadi12 Apparently you and your room temp IQ missed the point I was making

[@kevingary7018]

:) I have hunting rifles, semi automatic pistols, and shotguns. Recently I purchased a state compliant Ruger 556 autoloading rifle. I believe it is something my wife can handle, as well as me, in a stressful situation. It is decked out with a red dot, forward grip, sling, and light. We are both seniors living the American dream. But I tend to be more pragmatic dealing with the declining moral values of our society. Criminals tend to have more respect for those who return fire. If you keep a variety of guns and ammo on hand to anticipate the different problems of life, you will probably fare well.

[@TheRoamingHazard]

I think the biggest issue here is that people are not being realistic on the many different forms a true SHTF might look like. I've always told people that if things went downhill you'd probably need to shoot pigeons that roost under a bridge in a city to eat with a 24-28" shotgun before you get into combat against others with a rifle. Keep this in mind when considering the ammo you stock up on.

[@michaelblacktree]

Good point. In a survival scenario, your main concern will of course be surviving. And that means finding food. People like to fantasize about getting into gunfights. But if you're getting into gunfights, you're not gonna live very long.

[@chrisruthford4492]

Yep, your main objective will be to avoid gunfights at all costs.

[@stevem4783]

If the S really hits the F to the point where society has completely collapsed, you are worried about sheer survival, defending your life, and worrying about what you're going to eat on any given day, you are going to be using EVERY gun you own under non-ideal circumstances. I laugh at people that think they can prepare ONE rifle for those kind of circumstances and that it'll do the job. You could have your $4,000 tacti-awesome setup made for defense and hunting and 35,000 rounds stacked up and you get ambushed and surrounded in the open by a group of hungry scavengers with rusty .22s, you're screwed. Then they're going to be the ones with a fancy rifle. The best SHTF rifle is probably a .22 anyway, because it's the only round you can stack up several 10s of thousands of without taking out a second mortgage and you can have a bunch of firearms (levers, revolvers, etc) that fire it without the need for functional mags. Again, when society has collapsed, there are no ideal scenarios.

[@manbabymonke]

But that does not really explain the need for a deer hunting rifle that can also be used for cqb. If you only need to hunt deer, just get a rifle for deer hunting. You wouldn’t try to turn your 24” bird hunting shotgun into a door breaching shotgun as well right?

[@fujimi715]

You have to survive the violence enough to shoot down the pigeon. You don't get to choose when others attack you.

[@linger2001]

I just added a Ruger SFAR as I've wanted a 308 in an AR for years but really didn't want the weight penalty. This 16" SFAR comes in right at 7 lbs. So far I am very pleased and I'm sure it will see a good bit of usage.

[@chadfurtney3019]

How many rounds through it so far? How's it running ?

[@aaronjuarbe]

A good friend of mine just picked one up and we took it to the range it is a great rifle and just like advertised it is a 308 that handles just like a 556 AR-15 the recoil was just a little more stout but very manageable

[@stevenwilson9772]

​@chadfurtney3019 i have one as well... the one I have is the one that MAC reviewed on their channel. I am 700 rds in and only thing not stock is the LMT charging handle. It has been flawless. This gun made me get out of 556 literally last week. Now I have my SFAR and my HK mr762... im good to go.... all bought at Copper Custom

[@wallychambe1587]

@@stevenwilson9772 They are only showing one 308 now!😥

[@Lord_Pinkney]

After many many many rifles over the years I think I have found my "only gun you need". Its a 10.5 inch PSA KS-47 SBR with a 30 cal Nomad on the end (double tax stamp) and a swamp fox 1x6 lpvo on top. Out to 300 yards its a beast. Small, Light, Takes AK Mags, and shoots the 7.62x39 in the body of an AR.

[@dinadaughtry8993]

nice choice but I like the 16 inch AR 15 in the 7.62-39 pretty much the same thing but uses AR magazine made for the 7.62 and the 20 round magazine is not as long and bulky, great round for 150 yards and good for anything except maybe bear, moose

[@rascalmatt6713]

@@dinadaughtry8993 bad choice. The extractors break often.

[@Blark3]

Have always preferred the .308. Ammo is little more expensive but that's a trade off I'm willing to put up with. It's be great seeing more weapons systems coming out for the .308.

[@EmmittHill]

"LITTLE" more expansive ???

[@lrballistics]

A little? It's almost twice the price

[@Blark3]

@@lrballistics You're absolutely right. I've had to change up how I practice because of it. It's also something I like to do so I treat myself to a little extra when I can. I also always have more than enough just in case that I never use.

[@PureCountryof91]

​@@EmmittHillI was about to buy some for $.60/round..

[@traumajock]

Shelves are filled with 308. It makes perfect sense for all the reasons you talked about. I've got 300 Blackout for hogs out to 100 yards when I want to be able to fire multiple rounds quickly. I use a 308 bolt action for deer. 308 lives the Goldilocks Zone.

[@tzviskinner3083]

Great points my first rifle was a 308 for those exact reasons but in case of a buyout situation I figured it would be good to have a 556 load out for backup because of the carry weight. Eventually 6.5 Grendel and creedmoor will take the top spots but for now 308 checks all the boxes.

[@ianmedford4855]

Just get a .308, and a 7.62x39 carbine, and you're golden.

[@isaiahmarquez9717]

.308 is still superior closer in. Creedmoor shines over .308 at distance. Depends on the application.

[@tzviskinner3083]

Ya that’s why I built a 308 first and then started a 6.5 creedmoor. If I could afford a sig spear I would’ve called it a day on my ar10 collection

[@paul7from7ukr]

A shit hits the fan situation will not be like a looter shooter video game. You will not even be able to find 9 mm, 5.56, or 308 on any shelf. It's up to you to stock up whatever caliber you choose and be responsible for transporting it with you.

[@many_paths]

I came to the same conclusion when I bought my first rifle 24 years ago- an Armalite AR-10. I’ve used it for deer, elk, and a wide array of matches. I like the long range ballistics of the 20-inch barrel for 1000 yards. It shoots .5 MOA. It is a bit heavy and long but soaks up recoil too. Glad to hear you making a case for the.308.

[@ceoelektronika8604]

This is how people talk when they are not pandering for bribes.

[@IAM-o7o]

​@@ceoelektronika8604???

[@firesupport162]

I just prefer my Mauser 8mm and .303 SMLE both are over 100 years old and probably will live 100 years more

[@TheFanatical1]

The AR-10, the famously light even in its heaviest incarnation is a bit...heavy?

[@InitialFailure]

5.56 weighs about a bit less than half that of .308, though, yea? So, 210 rounds of 5.56 vs. 100-ish of .308. That's kind of significant when anything that needs to fall can be dropped by a 5.56 unless I'm way off?

[@clm652]

5.56 is just fine. It's everywhere and your main rifle is useless if you can't feed it. If you're shooting past 1000 yds its probably not self-defense unless of course we are in a hot civil war in which case 5.56 is probably still best answer as the side w the most ammo typically has the edge.

[@gisellesbikeseat]

5.56 has killed plenty of critters, both 4 legged and 2 legged. It's proven, prolific and relatively cheap. Also, armor defeating varieties are available. The gun media are always looking to stir things up, which is exactly what this is.

[@jeffreystarits2783]

@@gisellesbikeseat where im from we have a lot of deer but even more cattle and a cow is way easier to hunt . a 22lr will do the job to the skull of a cow from 2ft

[@atomicfrijole7542]

@@jeffreystarits2783 And the farmer/rancher is probably going to send you a message if you try thieving his cattle. Maybe you should rethink that...

[@TheDiameter]

Look, 5.56 is simply NOT a 1000y cartridge unless you’re loading it hot, in a very heavy bullet weight, with a specific twist rate, and a 20” or longer barrel. Will the standard 55g round get to 1k yards out of a 16” barrel? Sure, but nobody is hitting shit with it reliably. 5.56 is reliable to 500 and realistically maxes out at 750. Anything past that and you’re either using a purpose built setup of just lobbing rounds hoping for the best.

[@clm652]

@@TheDiameter No one said it was. My point was if you're engaging at that distance you obv need .308 or better but you have no business engaging at that distance 99.9% of the time, hunting, war, or defense. Hunting in shtf will be a two way range in competition for meat and the most deadly thing you can do and will drive most game to extinction fairly quick anyway. We're talking main battle rifle. In peacetime, sure, you have the luxury of whatever round you want for whatever game you're taking.

[@dennispfeifer7788]

Got my .308 for deer season in November 1972. Model 100 Winchester...weighs about 7 pounds and it's semi-auto. It's fast to the shoulder and has perfect balance.

[@biker-dr1ne]

I would not trust that platform for defensive use. Having managed and run some gunshop repair departments the extractor system on the Mdl 100 is simply too fragile

[@dennispfeifer7788]

@@biker-dr1ne I bet your right. The trigger is heavy too...can that trigger be tamed a bit?...I shot it last Sunday and I was pulling hard. I'd estimate 5 pounds at least...Then I shot a Sako made in about 1950 in .222 Remington...you breath on that trigger and it fires...It's got to be in ounces...maybe 8-10 ounces...they both need adjustment.

[@WildernessDude2024]

I like your practical thought process Tim. Also understand that a particular gun works for particular types of people, in particular type environments. I'm a dedicated hiker, climber that enjoys to be in the thick wilderness here in New Hampshire and things like weight, manuverability, compact breakdown size is very important. I've got a 5.56 custom built AR that I use for everything here from deer hunts, plinking, deep camping, bushcraft setups, etc. It's got a cryptic coatings bolt group so it doesn't freeze and light enough for scrambling in the Mountains. This exactly what myself in particular needs.

[@theamericanjaegerjager9563]

7.62x51 is a preferred hunting cartridge for typical hunting distances in Germany. From Red., Fallow and Roe Deer for you get a 30 caliber wound channel with the bullet passing through and the wound channel is not full of hematoma or bloodshot, saving on meat because restaurants that buy your harvest will refuse the carcass because of too much damaged meat from day a 30-06 (7.62x63mm) is too much, unless your shooting a 220gr bullet. But anything under that and you’re gonna be eating that deer yourself. Lol

[@ghostwriter1415]

It's disturbing that a European country like Germany has wound-standards on the meat it buys for consumption. If the 30 06 is TOO MUCH, that's good because LESS PAIN. Why does the Fatherland wish for the poor animal too suffer? Kraut turd.

[@colestahl1265]

The Ruger SFAR with the upcoming 5x micro prism ( using the 3x now)is my go to general purpose rifle. If I could only have one rifle under $2000 it’s the one.

[@johnkrstyen]

​@@TheFaceofRebellionguessing Primary Arms.

[@boygonewhoopdataZZ]

I broke my 3x when it dropped on the ground with my 10lb ar

[@jefferytillis8309]

Been considering the SFAR myself. Reasonable price wise and not much heavier than an AR-15. Keep waiting to see it pop up in 6.5 Creedmor.

[@JoelNorton-A1A]

Yeah the SIG is a bit out of reach price-wise I like the idea of the SFAR!... interested to know what suppressing and SBR might do to the reliability

[@wes326]

Shot my SFAR for the first time yesterday. Jammed on the sixth shot with a fired round in the chamber. I'm sure Ruger will make it right, but not impressed with its initial reliability. My S&W AR-15 has been very reliable.

[@adamcornell6738]

I think all these new calibers are neat but I still prefer to run with what has been tested by time. 308 is always a good choice

[@matthewgrumbling4993]

You have probably made the best case I have heard for .308. Definitely have to think about it, especially for the “you can only take one” scenario. There are probably lots of counter points, but I don’t know enough to raise them with any confidence in my arguments.

[@jeast417]

I made all these points in your video about the 308 being obsolete. The rounds to constantly keep to cover all bases are 556, 9mm, and 308

[@200130769]

Any gun person saying a massively popular cartridge is obsolete doesn't know what the word means and isn't a gun person.

[@DinoNucci]

Who asked you?

[@truckert9729]

Its obsolete in the same way a .45acp is. Doesn't mean it's going anywhere; yet; but there are way better rounds out there. Yup I just said it.

[@DinoNucci]

@@truckert9729 wrong

[@grilin18.]

@@truckert9729 the word for that is obsolecent, which is exactly what 45 and 308 are.

[@vicdiaz5180]

5.56 is still relevant and readily available and affordable so for now 5.56 is for me. Also popular around the world still

[@kennethbaker5223]

He didn't claim otherwise.

[@MrSmith-zy2bp]

Paul Harrell did a long SHTF rifle video a month ago. He completely addresses the 556 issue, even out to 500 yards. 556 is fine.

[@Truthbomb918]

It is popular all over the world, by militaries

[@Christoph-sd3zi]

556 and STANAG mags - the Right Arm Of the Free World

[@acars9999]

People, he is not evangelizing. He is providing a great example of how to consider YOUR specific needs and location and select a weapon accordingly. His choice is not the same as mine. But his approach is absolutely sound.

[@ajm2872]

556 for me. The 308 is a powerhouse, of course, but the smaller cartridge really shines when it comes to consistently keeping the enemy's head down.

[@mjgII]

lmao the only thing you need to worry about keeping down is your blood pressure

[@coolgamers2794]

556 is still good. Just get a heavier grain at higher pressure.

[@ON-O]

Who are you regularly fighting that you need to lay down suppressive fire?

[@GTFBITK]

Go outside and touch grass bro.

[@andyleotell]

@@GTFBITKlol

[@thedownhillside1998]

I had already changed my thinking to the 308/7.62. The availability of ammunition and the overall ballistics of the 308 compared to the 5.56 changed my thinking and your video was the " icing on the cake"

[@Paul_4Peace]

If I’m harvesting game using single rounds to hunt primarily in a bug out situation I like the idea of .308 or 7.62x39. Something readily available with a current ammo stockpile that keeps prices low for practice would make the most sense. Price of 308 is the only problem as others have pointed out. 308 ar10s are so lightweight the weight the weight of the ammo would be another concern ask NUTN lol. see also KS47 for shorter range engagements. I’ve been telling people to avoid the oddball AR calibers for years now and stick with 308. It checks so many boxes for me, no need to reinvent the wheel.

[@constitutionalrepublican1611]

for animals, may want to look at a simple thompson contender. theyre nice. and you save the brass.

[@siegfriedarmory6271]

Spot on about too many people worrying about rifles/gear they realistically won't use. When I was running the range at a particular store you frequent that starts with a "B" for a few years, the advice I always gave new shooters was that with 3 very budget friendly guns someone can do almost anything: a carry-size 9mm pistol, a versatile 12ga shotgun like a mossberg 500, and a bolt action .308. Depending on how budget someone wanted to go, they could easily get all 3 for under 1000 total. The shotgun can be used to hunt just about anything from rabbits and birds to bears at under 60ish yards with no change but the ammo, the .308 gives the ability to hunt things like deer out to several hundred yards, and the pistol is going to more than cover the defensive needs of the average civilian. If they want something beefier than the 9mm for home defense, they can stick an 18.5" barrel on the shotgun and load it with buckshot. Once someone has those three guns everything else is just an upgrade to capabilities they've already covered. Too many people buy a semi-automatic sporting rifle first, because they're cool, but in my opinion it should at the earliest be the fourth gun someone buys, because it fills a really niche role.

[@julianwatts9024]

The fudd is oozing off of you buddy. I suggest you quarantine before it spreads

[@ClickClack_Bam]

That's solid advice imo. I work with a LOT of military Veterans hot off the battlefield & none of them think this way. It's nice to see the outside perspective.

[@siegfriedarmory6271]

@@ClickClack_Bam I actually am in the military (National Guard, so barely 🤣), but I think the upside to spending the other 28 days of the month in the civilian world is getting to see things in a non-military context most of the time. I love my ARs and since I collect I have several of them, but if I could only have 3 guns an AR would not make the list. A lot of people would come into the store asking for an AR-15 as their first gun, without having given much thought to why they want that specific gun (Usually they'd say home defense or something like that), and I'd generally steer them towards using that money to get a compact pistol, a handgun class, and a carry permit instead, because that's far, far more likely to be useful on a day to day basis. It usually also ended up being a little less expensive to get all that than what they came in planning on buying. The boss hated it when I'd do that because it was "losing the store money" but those same customers frequently became regulars. Aside from responsible and trained people carrying every day making the world a little bit safer, it also creates a return customer because they're thinking about their gun every day, instead of a "gun owner" who has a rifle or two they haven't shot in years gathering dust in the closet.

[@ClickClack_Bam]

@@siegfriedarmory6271 I actually myself just bought my first AR-15 this year after having bought several other firearms. The military guys got to me lol. One in particular loves them & passes me the deals on things & I'll buy them because he's done his homework on it all. Interestingly enough I've bought a 9mm Springfield XD-9 for carry, a Mossberg 500 & I don't have a long distance rifle yet. I got those all before the AR-15. I'm thinking about going with the Tikka platform for long distance. My military Buddy says go for the AR-10 lol. What do you think personally?

[@klown463]

Lol roasts ARs while recommending a shotgun as a first gun ALONG with a .308 hunting rifle 😂 Two hunting oriented firearms is just a waste of the budget, and shotguns are generally impractical, especially for a new shooter. A semi auto, even a .22, covers way more bases than a shotgun for the same price. It’s not 1950 fudd lmao

[@repeater75]

I chose 6.5 Creedmore for many of the same reasons you chose .308 - I admit .308 is more widely available, but an AR-10 and a bolt gun in 6.5 give me some good options. The AR-10 with the right optic is a great hunting option at intermediate and shorter ranges.

[@drjimjam1112]

And a damn fine long range say howdy cartridge.

[@timothyjacobs2677]

I agree, I have a .300 blk AR build for lightweight for short-range. 6.5CM somewhat light weight for over 200yrds.

[@asplymale]

As a former SF 18B I have been intrigued with Jeff Cooper and the Scout Rifle concept. I chose the M1A1 Scout Squad version precisely for all the reasons you cited. There’s a reason why golfers carry a bag of clubs. There’s never gonna be one gun for every eventuality. Manage risk and determine the most likely & the most dangerous scenario and make your best worst decision & move on from there…

[@skipsmith9692]

Love the idea, been a .308 user for decades. My go to hunting rifle. Never been a big fan of the AR-10 but I do like the layout of the spear. Might be a future owner… truthfully I hope now that things are picking up that the 6mm arc does become a standard…sweet shooting round and fantastic ballistics.

[@matthewotis3594]

I love it in my rem model 7. But if I had to have one it'd be something in 7.62 x 39. A bit slower than .308 but a bit hotter than 30-30. That's ample power and a great all around round. Kill from opossums to bears in a pinch, iffy on brown bears. I'd want an ak with a mag over an sks with a sack of stripper clips. 30 rounds is much more than 10. And the reload difference. Dad loaded snd hunted ground squirrel. He tried em all. Settled on .243 after 22- 250 and. 222. 220 Swifts were too hot for a 22 cal.

[@emmw7794]

The Spear is like 6 grand.

[@cornpopwasabaddude69]

​@@emmw7794and not worth the price by any metric lmfao

[@plaid13]

Here in NC I think 7.62x39 is a better option. Cheaper lighter and has more than enough range for the distances you will see in the dense forests we have everywhere. A nice simple AK is hard to go wrong with when you are in areas that are nothing but a mix of forest and suburban/urban settings. Very rare to see anything long range out here. Even the roads tend to curve every few hundred yards or have a big hill.

[@stevenaylor5163]

At that barrel length all you get without a suppressor is a 7.62x39 + a flash bang

[@plaid13]

@@stevenaylor5163 I was wondering how much velocity is lost in a short barrel 308. Not sure i have ever seen anyone test it.

[@99Seero]

@@plaid13this is a good question, I would like to see this tested too.

[@jommez123]

@@plaid13InRangeTV has a really neat video on it from three years ago simply titled 7.62x39 vs. 7.62x51 here on KZbin. Not particularly scientific, but a decent starting point.

[@ungratefulpeasant8085]

It's not cheaper anymore since the ammo ban.

[@muchachonextdoor5608]

If you want more performance without sacrificing weight and recoil the 6.8 SPC or 6.5 grendel are the way to go. They both have a very good track record taking deer and hogs. I see both on store shelves and both are easy to reload for.

[@timunderbakke8756]

If I had to do it all over again, going back in time not starting over in 2023, I think I’d have added a 6.8 to my repertoire and been stocking it up. Not going to do it now, too expensive and I’ve got lots of other things since

[@juanspicywiener]

6.8 spc is boss. Idk why store shelf availability is a concern if you have enough stored. It's like a zombie movie larp where you think the ability to resupply at a looted Walmart is beneficial.

[@melissasmess2773]

6.8 PRC is my deer rifle 😍👍🏻

[@ShortArmStrongArm]

7.62x39 has entered the chat

[@MT_Pant_Suit]

5.56 will be king in shtf scenario, as will 9x19.

[@BaconSlayer69]

Nah I think 7.62x39 and .308win will be

[@ryanranard5187]

Yep, you’re correct.

[@ecgwineicling2543]

@@BaconSlayer69 Depends on *where* exactly shtf, if in Russia, 7.62×39. If in Switzerland, 7.5×55. If in the US or any US vassal state, .308.

[@WearilyCorrect]

5.56 and .308 are two of the most common use so when we need to band together, those are the best to stockpile for interchangeability.

[@litsci4690]

You aren't "interchanging" shit with me. Get your own.

[@stevenmiller184]

5.56 has plenty of power for what you are going to need it for. It will definitely get the job done at the kind of ranges that are realistic. It's availability, cost, weight and size are all in it's favor. But even that is probably more than you need.

[@weasle2904]

Yeah you can lay out a deer easily with one. Anyways you're not getting an AR for SHTF just to hunt with it, like what. What a weird line of thinking from MAC... The US military already collected all the statistics to prove 5.56 is more effective in general combat and sustainability, as well as squad level maneuverability than .308 over 60 years ago!

[@johncanshoot]

Mac is right-on. He gave us much to consider and I appreciate it very much. POINT-OF-FACT: 5.56 will not shoot into cars or though windshields and stop those inside. COPs demonstrate that to new officers. 5.56 is great BUT AGAIN it will not shoot through body armor, even the cheap stuff - even GREEN-TIP... that is one of the many reasons the Military wants to move on... failures of the 5.56. In most parts of the country the bad guys frequently wear body armor. If you have not been to a carbine class of late: with 5.56 shoot for the groin then the face, forget the "center-mass" shots. You must prepare for worst case situations, not what worked in the past before the bad guys up-gunned & started wearing body armor. Confrontations with gangs is about like dealing with a military squad now that the Mexican drug cartels have taken over from the old prison gangs. The one gun for everything is something I do not want to deal with. Now you need weapons for dealing with those wearing body armor and driving modified vehicles. .30/06 black tip AP is best for that. More and more home-invaders are wearing vests and use team work to overcome the good guy(s). They can drive a vehicle INTO YOUR HOME... you need something to stop the engine. In case of wide-spread civil unrest those trying to plunder your home for your supplies will be wearing armor and there will be several/many of them. BETTER START THING "COMMUNICATION" & "TEAMS"... Mechanics have more than one tool in their tool box... we also need an assortment of tools. MAC is one of the first... this topic of discussion is going to become paramount in the gun/self-defense community. 5.56 is just about everyones' favorite BUT YOU must consider the bad guys have up-armored and up-gunned. Of course you might be fortunate and your attacker(s) might be old-school BUT the bad guys are good communicators and in general their life's work is to stay one-step-ahead of US. In my case hunting is not now an issue BUT years ago I had to shoot dog-sized predators & DOG PACKS chasing sheep & cattle - 5.56 was often NOT always a good stopper for even that... had to chase-down a quite a few that should have died with the first hit because it was a well placed shot. THINK ABOUT IT! Especially if the target shoots back and is full of MEPH and or adrenaline! DIFFERENT STROKES FOR DIFFERENT FOLKS! ... certainly, BUT every point that MAC made is worth your serious consideration. Nothing he said was/is frivolous or naive. If you think "MAC HAS CHANGED"... maybe he has become more of a realist. I have followed him for many years... I do not think he has changed one bit BUT he was addressing a supremely serious subject! GO MAC! PS: My go-to has become a SIG CROSS in .308 with an AREA 419 brake. Not saying it is perfect for everyone BUT I take it with me everywhere in the vault under the back seat... completely legal almost anywhere. I have heavier ARs... will shoot through most any vest available to civilians, no attacker inside a vehicle would be safe, and it will shoot almost as accurately as my F-Class rifle out to 800 yards.

[@gpheonix1]

@@johncanshoot huh. so 6.8 wasn't for enemies abroad was it...

[@TheCosmicGuy0111]

@@johncanshoot bud I hate to break it to you, 55 grain can go through a whole fuckin car lmfaooooo

[@markwurz8577]

@@johncanshootdude you couldn’t possibly be any more wrong lmao. It’s insane. Yikes man.

[@KenTurner-z4v]

Whilst I wouldn't consider this as a reason to go with a completely obscure calibre for a primary rifle, when you did your review of the FK BRNO 7.5 PSD during COVID, you stated that you had no difficulty getting the 7.5 BRNO ammo but that 9mm was scarce and ridiculously expensive so you were using half filled magazines to conserve ammo. In any SHTF conflict those readily available calibres that everyone uses are going to be the first ones to disappear of the shelf. That's why having a stockpile of ammunition initially is important and I would argue that that being the case what calibre you choose should be decided as much upon suitability for your given needs as availability.

[@colowyowatchman4420]

Saiga 7.62x39 for me! Some people have put 350,000+ rounds through their Saiga and its still going strong. Great video

[@charlesshoemaker3622]

It may still function but I bet the accuracy is poor at that round count.

[@dondineen110]

Simply NO. An AK action can not last 350K rounds. Who could afford that much ammo.

[@Sam_the_Sham_and_the_Pharoahs]

I love my Saigas. I have two, one 20" 7.62x39mm that I replaced the FCG to a standard AKM trigger, bullet guide but kept the original front sight and no brake. And I have a 16" 5.45x39mm that is the same way, AKM trigger group, Saiga front brake. But the 16" is my baby. Easily the best rifle I own. I even like it better than my Galil Ace Gen2 in 5.45. Which is like an AKM on steroids, milled receiver, pic top rail, left hand charging handle, and buffered recoil spring. The Saiga still holds it own with it.

[@NORTHSTARLOGISTICSLLC]

@COLOWYOWATCHMAN I totally agree 👍. Can't beat 7.62x39mm AKM for all purpose, if you could only have 1 rifle!! Hunt, fight, last forever, cheap ammo!

[@NORTHSTARLOGISTICSLLC]

​@charlesshoemaker3622 an AR might last 3000 to 5000 rounds. An AKM will last much longer. Plus piston driven rifles are superior and the ammo is cheaper!!! Lights, lasers, optics and other Gucci crap won't make you a better shooter/warrior. 😂😂😂

[@josephwhiskeybeale]

I remember watching back when your go to was a 5.45 Arsenal you had a TJ and had a day job, man times have changed

[@paraAA82]

Extremely well articulated video. definitely worth to consider having two calibers. 5.56 and .308 Thank you Tim.

[@mfallen6894]

Are there people that only have one rifle caliber? Seriously asking, as I grew-up in the country where shooting guns was THE thing to do for fun, so we all accumulated pretty decent arsenals of various calibers by the time we reached adulthood. I've lived in city's but never really joined gun clubs/went to the ranges when I was in college/before moving back to the sticks, so I didn't ever really mingle with the city/suburb gun crowd. It seems odd to only have AR's and Glocks to me, but it probably seems odd to that crowd to own a dozen bolt guns in various chamberings, lever guns, revolvers from .22 up to Grizzly stoppers, etc. I guess it's all relative... Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying one is a better approach than the other, I'm just genuinely curious. I don't care if a person only owns a Marlin Model 60; they're part of the 2A community just like any other gun owner!

[@paraAA82]

@@mfallen6894 whatever makes your boat float

[@lee.isaac.richard]

So glad I found this video! I’ve been having the same thoughts ruminating through my mind. 9mm pistol (for concealed carry) 9mm suppressed carbine (for subsonic/CQW) 308 rifle (power at range) Readily available. Cheap. Long-lasting. Thanks for sharing!

[@HumbleWarrior7]

Personally I’ve landed on one AR and three different uppers: 300 BLK, 5.56, 6.5 Grendel. That pretty much covers everything I need and I can switch them in seconds. I also have different optics tailored to their use, but the biggest advantage for me is having the same trigger and controls for all three.

[@62dobie]

This right here. Very well thought out.

[@62dobie]

One exception, my Sig Rattler 300 BLK w/can. I love that thing. Nothing shoots like it.

[@HumbleWarrior7]

I do have a can for mine too. If I could have afforded it I would go with the Sig as well for sure.

[@Loyal69]

Not everyone has 5k for the gun. 2k for the optics. And $2 for match ammo. No way. 556 will forever be here.

[@wishonafish]

facts

[@Holret]

Not every who wants a .308 will pay 5K for a rifle. because you can find some for very cheap, in particular bolt action and still very accurate. be a smart shopper instead of a whinny one.

[@916medic]

Palmetto State Armory has a 308 AR10 for $849. Tula steel case .308 is $11.99. Brown Bear 308 HP, Soft Point same price. But your right a 223/556 is much cheaper and always available. AR-15 is still my go to.

[@user-ug5xr2gb6j]

@@916medic I was gonna say that. PSA has a 308 upper for around 400 and complete lower for 150 to 200 if your patient.

[@alexfernandez4640]

@@Holretthe situation the video is about calls for a rifle more effective than a bolt action. He’s not whining, youre being dense

[@craigklein5563]

Dropping your AR-15 picking up a new rifle and caliber and stocking up on the new ammo is a wealthy man's task at a time when a third of Americans can't buy enough food because of the cost!

[@Wolfsbane1100]

5.56 is perfectly capable for the absolute majority of situations that you will find yourself in, SHTF and otherwise.

[@anaxa4883]

That is what a Fed would say 💀💀💀

[@joemama.556]

​@@anaxa4883I bet feds dont want you to be able to use their ammo.... shit take honestly

[@elmateo77]

He's mainly talking about hunting I think. Depending on where you live and what type of animals are in the area, .308 might be a better choice. IMO 5.56 is fine for hunting deer, but for elk or moose you want something heavier. Of course you could always just have a 5.56 for home defense and something heavier for hunting.

[@sammiches6859]

​@@joemama.556Obviously you can just use their guns if you have access to their ammo. Double shit take.

[@joemama.556]

@@sammiches6859 so you are saying every single ammo storage facility also has rifles in it? I can assure you that is not true for 99% of government ammo storage facilities.

[@MrZonacat1]

Very good information. I will stick with the 5.56 for the most part and use a bolt action 308 for longer range or hunting situations. I also like the fact you talked about sheltering in place. Very few of us have the cabin in the woods to run to if SHTF and will make our stand at home.

[@johnparrish9215]

I bought a 6.5 Grendel upper years ago and found the rifle much more useful and interesting, it's a fun cartridge to reload for also.

[@theoverunderthinker]

yeah. Grendel is pretty good. especially if you reload.

[@PlayingWithFireOutdoors]

@johnparrish9215 It's a great round, I too am a huge fan of it's properties.

[@Censoredagain7881]

The thing is, in a SHTF scenario, if you aren't reloading your own ammo or have it stock piled, it will be hard to come by. I have a 6.5 Grendel and a 458 socom. But won't be good if I can't go to the store and buy the ammo for it?? That's the question. I always try to stick with what the military is using. That way, if the SHTF you will always have ammo around.

[@theoverunderthinker]

@@Censoredagain7881 1) we are not in the SHTF scenario 2) you don't have to only have one or the other. prepare for the worst, but that doesn't mean you can't live your life not every firearm choice has top be 100% practical. you make a good point, but my response it : shoot what you like as well as what is practical; have some fun also; strike the right balance for you!

[@jimmyvollman7596]

@@Censoredagain7881 Keep a 556 upper around in case the SHTF. Bolt and all. Switch them if you run out of Grendel.

[@redbeartactical4544]

Awesome video, I’ve been saying the same things for years, .308 has always made way more sense to me then .223/5.56

[@garrettjaneski6209]

.308 is the 5.56 of "non-intermediate" rifle cartridges and always will be, in my opinion. It is great for what it is intended for and checks off most any box that 5.56 does, or does not, for that matter, while being just as prevalent and permissive as to its price on most any ammo shelf out there.

[@jP-nw7nm]

Glad you brought up the 6.5CM

[@WHEELGUNNER1]

308 has been my primary cartridge for 40+ years-I don't think it can be beat for an all purpose round. I have it in bolt, semi auto, and lever action rifles. It has never made me wish for more or less.

[@solanuskc4303]

Which model lever action?

[@jamesorth1521]

Price per round is a problem with the. 308 compared to .223.

[@WHEELGUNNER1]

@@solanuskc4303 1960 vintage Savage model 99

[@WHEELGUNNER1]

@@jamesorth1521 Reloading helps lessen the difference

[@kennygp2004]

I've recently switched to 308 due to the same reasons high winds in north west AZ and long distances. I dont have that really nice setup that you have but it is an Aero Precision M5e1 enhanced 16" upper on an M5 lower. I struggle at my local 1000 yard range but I'm new to long range shooting and I'm starting to figure it out. Great video and it all depends on your area/conditions. Happy 4th of July everyone. Party like its 1776 even though its more like 1984. God bless.

[@jacktheaviator4938]

I have nearly the same build, but I splurged on a carbon fiber barrel. It is a bit expensive, but it gave me the performance of a heavy target barrel without the weight cost. In a situation where we might face an invasion from a hostile nation, they will be wearing body armor, and 308 is the minimum I would bring into a fight against armored targets.

[@kennygp2004]

@@jacktheaviator4938 dang that is a nice upgrade, especially with the Aero barrels being heavy. I'll have to look into doing that and agree about the body armor. I have level 4 plates front and back in a Ferro Concepts Slickster for now. I still need to get a decent helmet and have been looking into night vision but I'm poor lol

[@oldtimefarmboy617]

Create a range chart you can carry in your pocket. List distances and scope settings for each one. That way if you have the time to prepare then you can set your scope to get the most accurate shots. Also practice hold overs using a static scope setting for each distance. That way if you do not have time to prepare you can quickly see how far you have to hold over for accurate shot. Specially if the target is on the move.

[@jacktheaviator4938]

@@kennygp2004 carbon barrels make a HUGE difference in a DMR. They are expensive, but if you have to carry the rifle over rough terrain, it is worth every penny. A decent trigger is the only other real upgrade I can justify. I left the army nearly blind in my left eye thanks to spalling and shrapnel after our Stryker took an RPG, so ambidextrous upgrades are pointless. But that's a personal choice because of my situation. Milage may vary.

[@VanDerSmithrock]

.308 has always had a special place in my lineup. First hunting rifle was my dad’s .308 Savage lever gun. Found one like it a few years back and picked it up. Have a couple of others now as well as an AR10 in 6.5 cm. Toying with the idea of swapping the barrel over to .308. I like the jack-of-all-trades aspect of the cartridge except it’s better than being a master of none. Appreciate the video and your take on this issue. Keep up the good work!

[@jasonrottlaender1721]

That was the hunting rifle my dad always had me hunt with a savage 99 in .308 with a red field 4x widefield scope. Either that or a Springfield 30.06

[@kvonzwild8979]

Definitely agree. Always wondered what the 300 savage would be like today in a similar platform. It was thought of as a military cartridge and was a bit ahead if its time. Now long faded away it seems to me it would fill a gap between a blackout and 308 and work well in short barrels.

[@deadmeat8754]

The 300 Savage actually inspired the 308/762. However, the 300 Savage features much lower pressures and a shorter neck, limiting commercial ammunition capabilities below that of the 308/762. The 308/762 would maintain it's advantages over the 300 Savage regardless of barrel length. Also, the 300 Savage cartridge dimensions would have required a similarly sized action as the 308/762. With an adjustable gas system, or a bolt action the 308/762 can be light loaded to mimic the 300 savage if comfort, or application required.

[@raybo34]

Though it may be somewhat difficult to find I choose 6.5 Grendel for putting food on the table in my AR15 platform. Definitely a cost effective platform. If and when I choose an AR10 platform it will be 308.

[@JohnDoe-re1ll]

One thing I believe you failed to mention is barrel length with the .308. Anything shorter than an 18" will cost you in terms of performance. Personally when it comes to defensive firearms I save my pennies and by what I believe is optimum (i.e. my mission = home defense and truck gun = maneuverability). This because I can't go hunting if I'm dead. So, B&T 300 APC (suppressed) for tight spaces and 6.5 Creedmoor for the deer. Works for me.

[@revvyishonisd5027]

308 is possibly the best full power rifle cartridge for short barrels. Even from a 12.5 or 13.5 you’re still getting around 2000 foot pounds. Relative to any other fighting rifle of that size, that’s twice the power still. With the only exceptions being the new .277 fury and 8.6blk. They’re more efficient but there’s also a lot less options in guns and ammunition.

[@steelie4587]

100% agree!! I absolutely love the 308. Not only am I set up for SHTF but also run 308 for my long range. So versitile! Also another huge reason is 308 is great for reloading ! Not sure "easy" is what I want to say but definitely wide range of recipes for creating good dependable ammo! Love your channel and looking forward to your next. Stay safe all!

[@200130769]

308 will suck for shtf. How much ammo do you think you will be able to carry? Not as much as you think. Not even close.

[@case8987]

After two fire fights you’ll more than likely be out of ammo lol.

[@steelie4587]

Thank you for your expertise!

[@icfubar9150]

Makes total logical sense. I ditched my 5.56 years ago but have kept a M1 as a backup. Only drawback is the 8 rd capacity before a reload.

[@Macreadysshack]

It all depends on your personal situation. 75 to 77 grain 5.56 are good enough for me for most things. I also like my 62-64 grain soft points. 5.56 has had so much r&d, you can find something that works for almost anything that isn’t large game at long range. It isn’t perfect but it is versatile.

[@neomunitor]

I agree. The new 75 grain black tip VMax and 77 grain OTM loads from PSA are really good enough for just about purpose, are super accurate, plus you can find them on sale for $.55/round, and keep you in a 7 lb package you can source from anywhere, for under a grand, with interchangeable replacement parts you can get anyplace. Yes, they are only good up to medium size deer at 350 yards, but they have a lot less wind drift than the 55 and 62 grain loads if you want to varmint hunt, and 350 yards is good enough for the vast majority of deer situations. You can compare that to a $2700 Sig Spear being fed with 147 gr white box, but it won't be as accurate, so you need to go to 168 gr match loads, then you are looking at $1.75/round, plus the 308 is even more sensitive than the 5.56 to short barrel lengths. The Sig Spear is a pig. It weighs 9.2 lbs without an optic in the 16" barrel. I live in the mountains and pounds are pain.

[@mattwalters6834]

Same

[@PureCountryof91]

I've been looking for a case of 64~gr sp 5.56. hellacious tissue damage.

[@user-in3mg1sg1w]

Yep

[@forest6110]

I am a fan of the 5.56, primarily because I’ve done so much shooting with it going way back to my days of high power competition, and it’s great in the wooded areas of my home region. My wife has a .308, and it is a phenomenal cartridge. The 6.8SPC is one of my favorites, but the ammo cost and availability kill it as a ‘go to’ rifle.

[@TheMonikerfree]

I appreciate the rationale for moving to .308, and I've considered it as well. The Ruger SFAR making that option a financially possible one. However, I still think 77gr OTM, SMK, Razor Core etc in 5.56 is sufficient for hunting, and the weight savings still outweighs, so to speak, the gains of .308 in my mind.

[@dennisleighton2812]

But for those of us who aren't Marksmen or Snipers, the .308 (or similar) is possibly a safer option. Less likely to leave wounded animals bleeding out painfully when shots do not hit the mark.

[@TheMonikerfree]

@@dennisleighton2812 Thats true, it's hard to argue with MAC's reasoning here. I think where i come down is that there is no "one rifle to rule them all", but perhaps we can narrow it down to just two?

[@chrism2042]

I have a S&W Performance Center AR10 in 6.5 CM, which is a shooting machine. But for an all-around go-to, I would grab my Daniel Defense MK12 and IMI 77gr Razor core ammo.

[@adamdavis7271]

rationale*

[@Mike-wh9dq]

For years I've always had the same opinions you just shared. The difference between you and I is that I've been torn between two or more 'lovers', i.e. 5.56 and 300 Blkout, but secretly pined for a .308 AR due to all the 'noise' in the market around each - 5.56 and 390 Blkout. I just could not get to where you are in my head. Your video has helped a lot because while my ideas and thoughts on this subject are scattered thoughout my brain, you have not only organized them for me but, beyond that, solidified them for me. Thank you. Guess I'll be headed to a consignment shop sooner than I thought! BTW, as a young 68 year old veteran who grew up hunting deer and Black bear I'd just like to say that I am not of the 'fan-boy' club type. My life long passion is a small but sufficient arsenal, modern munitions and long distant shooting! Thanks for your very thought provoking video. ...spot on!

[@vik12D]

I think, for SHTF, I'm already most likely a loot drop for someone else. I'll just keep what I have and see how it goes. I'm more focused on making friends and being in a group than individual gear now.

[@mattc5647]

Youve got the best mindset here tbh. Always fixating and preparing for the worst, is a mental nightmare, making friends and family while enjoying life matters more. Dedicated prepper/shtf communities seem to forget this. Have a few months of food/water stockpiled, have a rifle with a few hundred extra rounds. I'd rather be around people I love for two years, then be alone prepped for 20.

[@vik12D]

@@cameron-kb6nm Or your lone ranger approach loses everything to a fireteam. You know, whatever.

[@vik12D]

@@cameron-kb6nm I hope not lol

[@2Ajosh]

True but most likely in the event, my “ team “ is just family.. and the only way we’re bugging out is if absolutely needed an haul ass wherever we need to be so 100% gunfights & cqb should be avoided at all costs. The “ Rambo “ type won’t make it long.

[@vik12D]

@2Ajosh Yup. If you're in a gunfight I hope its your ambush and you have standoff.

[@Erick_Bloodaxe]

I came to the same conclusion 10 years ago, got a FAL at the time. 308 is nearly as available as 5.56 and many guns in that caliber can be switched to 6.5CM with an upper or barrel swap. Intermediate calibers aren’t great, they were always a compromise to allow more ammunition at the expense of medium and long range performance. I prefer full power rifle cartridges for basically every application. It makes sense to have a 5.56 option just for availability, but as the military moves away from it other agencies and such will as well. There’s going to be less of it in the long run. 308 will have more staying power since it’s also a common hunting round.

[@forrest225]

Nearly as available? Yeah right dude.

[@BaconSlayer69]

It’s used in almost every firearm action to single shots to mini guns

[@pkake1319]

This whole move away from 223 to larger calibers is not going to be widely adopted for a long time.

[@forrest225]

@@BaconSlayer69 Yeah but if I walk into a sporting goods store there might be 200 rounds of .308 on the shelf total, right next to 10,000 rounds of 5.56.

[@Erick_Bloodaxe]

@@pkake1319 It takes militaries a long time to make changes, and most people and other agencies follow what the militaries are doing like lemmings. Look at your terrain and most likely to least likely use cases and make decisions specific to your needs. Don't do what large organizations who have to equip millions of men do, you have the advantage of being adaptable where they don't, use that advantage.

[@spaceshipmoon69]

Solution: 77 grn 5.56 which is a whole different animal in terms of bucking the wind and effectiveness at distance. I've heard military snipers say the same thing. When I finally buy a 300 blackout maybe I'll change my mind. We'll see.

[@DasGoodSoup]

300blk is essentially 7.62x39 with a 308 bullet instead of a 311

[@Fadaar]

@@DasGoodSoup it legitimately is a 5.56 casing shooting 308 bullets

[@kimmichaels899]

75,77 grain match is a different animal,makes big holes in deer 100yds +😊

[@3rdcoastambit220]

Due to my experience in Iraq for two tours i made the jump a long time ago from 5.56 to 7.62, and most of the vets i served with that are still with us have done the same. I was lucky as a POG to have access to a base armory and managed to get my hands on an old M14. Then my people back home sent me a sadlak mount and my issued ACOG made the jump and that was my gun for the duration of my time in the sandbox. Since coming back home my ARs have become safe queens and I've had LRB & Fulton Armory build me a few M14s of various lengths and setup for different tasks. With the exception of teaching a new shooter, I cannot remember the last time i shot 5.56 for personal use.

[@McRod-1]

POG... Everything I learned and equipped in my 23 years on active duty has changed. We called POGs, REMFs, when I was in. But I was a 12B, just a glorified grunt, so what do I know?

[@stans5270]

I started my career as a mechanic, so I understand "the right tool for the job" is essential. I also was grandfathered numerous WWII and Korean war era tools that it's impossible to find ammo for to take them shooting at the range. Hence I went for the standard Savage .22 and an Ruger American 308 bolt. I also bought a .556 and a 7.62x39 in AR form to round out my hunting equipment.

[@jaycoy107]

Hard to beat the Ruger American bolt gun, even if you spend way more money to try to beat it.

[@Watergiant95]

I have a Tavor 7 in 762 and I love it. Definitely something I would grab if I had to be on the move and have a cartridge that performs well and the military uses the same cartridge.

[@mrdato116]

Israeli rifle 🤮

[@Watergiant95]

@@mrdato116 internet trolls 🤮

[@mrdato116]

@@Watergiant95 oy vey shut it down

[@Watergiant95]

@@mrdato116 haha well why say anything if you don’t expect a response…

[@shainshartershwate7421]

Should've gotten an Aug instead

[@greggadberry7789]

I totally agree with you and for years have kept 7.62x51 rifles for serious social purposes and hunting . I love my 5.56 rifles for target practice and gun games and tinkering.

[@williambass9935]

Definitely need both , 556 and 308 . 308 for me and the 556 for a friend ; for the SHTF DAY .

[@ZONES89RS]

Until something else becomes more common I have zero reason to abandon 5.56

[@johnstevens1575]

62-grain 5.56mm up to 70+ grains seems to work fine on light body armor.

[@golgothika]

I have preferred .308 to 5.56 since my army days in the early 1980’s. I still think it’s the best overall round of choice for me in Texas. Found your channel through Braden. Great video.

[@jvz1448]

It’s a great round but I don’t know about .308 out of a shorter barrel.

[@Nordheide]

@@jvz1448 seems to work, KSK used some for CQB in Afghanistan, they were quite happy

[@markr.1984]

I have preferred both. Be smart.

[@todorkolev7565]

everything's bigger in Texas :) Meanwhile, my scrawny ass can't cope with 308. I might get better if I could afford the money and time to practice but got too many empty piggy banks to juggle!

[@McClureOutdoor]

I like the MK218 from PWS for the 308 option, has been a good suppressor host with the adjustable gas system and longer stroke piston setup. Helps tame any recoil and also is a lot more affordable than the SIG Spear system right now.

[@juncho1977]

I wish the PWS MK2s were in the weight range of the new SFARs.

[@nfmMike]

Just now came across this video. I've been off the "net" grid for over a year, and, over a year ago I made a 308 AR my "go to". Not one to do everything, but to do most important chores I need done. Rock on!