The .224 Valkyrie ~ Is it right for YOU, or just advertising hype?

It's indeed a great round, as GunBlue490 will illustrate, but we'll compare the .224 Valkyrie fairly to the .223 Remington, and see how they really stack up, apart from all the new cartridge hype. New cartridge advertising is full of hyperbole designed to sell their product. Charts and evaluations are very carefully designed to highlight the round's benefits, using selective information that highlights their best side, and often with unfair comparisons of apples and oranges. GunBlue490 takes no sides in this video, and presents every benefit of this great new round, as well as its drawbacks, for you to make the correct evaluation for the way YOU shoot.

[@elmbow]

Here is the bottom line: The Valkyrie was designed specifically to keep high b.c. bullets shot from the AR15 platform supersonic to 1200 yards. It does that in spades. My 6.5 twist 20" AR in 224 Valkyrie sends the Hornady 88 ELD with its .550 G1 b.c out the muzzle at 2650 fps with a Miller stability factor of 1.85. At 1200 yards it is down 43 MOA and traveling at 1250 fps corrected for 3000' above sea level and 59 deg F. The much vaunted Hornady 143 ELD 6.5 Creed with its G1 b.c. of .646 drops 44 MOA at 1200 yards at the same atmospheric conditions. At 1200 yards with 15 mph 90 deg crosswind both cartridges are off 13 MOA. So the Valkyrie is duplicating the 6.5 Creed with a 43 grain lighter bullet, using 40% less powder, with recoil low enough to keep one's nose glued to their rifle's charging handle. Handloaders who are shooting the 223 Rem AI can get close to the Valkyrie but unless you are a handloader the 223 Rem nor the 5.56 hold a candle to the Valkyrie for distances beyond 600 yards. For varminters the Valkyrie does in an AR what it takes the 220 Swift and 22-250 in bolt guns, with lots of powder and throat erosion to accomplish. I am a Valkyrie fan.

[@ronburton7611]

appreciate your information. I just ordered a 20" 224 upper. Then read some negative stuff on it. But you just confirmed i made a good choice so thanks again. I was looking for something that shoots well in the 400 to 600 yard range.

[@mefirst5427]

I was hand loading 88-grain ELD-M for 223 Rem when I looked into 224 Valkyrie. Berger twist rate calculator is helpful as well. Thanks for the great insight.

[@elmbow]

I will add that there is a downside to the Valk compared to 6mm and larger diameter bullets and that is hearing and seeing hits on target is tougher. The Valks’ raison d’etre is AR15 type gas guns. I would never use it in a bolt gun, that’s where the 6mms and 6.5mms shine. My LR bolt gun is a 700 SA 27”MGM 7.5” twist barreled 243 Win sending 108 Bergers down range @3100 fps. If it’s good enough for John Whidden, it’s good enough for me😉

[@edwardnigma6568]

I worked up a load for .224 valk that would shoot 5 shot keyholes at maximum powder charge. I found that fragging was very easy with any kind of jacketed bullet so I switched to Barnes monolithic and it worked flawlessly. Then pandemic happened and .224 TTSX became made of unobtainium and my experiments ended. OP is correct, realistically 224Valk is good for shooting long range and doing so economically. Less wear, less expenditure. Beyond that, it seems like that the only niche it fills. For me the pandemic and sudden unavailability of all componenets totally ruined the gun for me. The American Eagle 75s shoot ok, but I can do the same thing with a .308 and I can still get everything I want for that almost any time I want. Its sad that this happened to component manufacturing and distribution.

[@thatguyfishingben4794]

I have 2 uppers I've been varmint hunting with mostly. An 18 inch and a 22 inch. I have killed 3 deer with the caliber. And several hogs I'm not sure of exact count. But I think it's a great round for what it is. Been loading 40 to 50 grain stuff and using it for yotes. Them swapping optics and using the heavy stuff for my kids to shoot long range and for me to test on deer. I don't think it's ground breaking but I think it's a nice round none the less.

[@gregwalker4236]

there is so much here, i just want to watch over and over again--unbelievable insight. i hope everyone watching appreciates this man's vast knowledge....

[@WestDesertShooter]

First off, great chat! Now I am fortunate enough to have access to ranges far beyond 1,300 yards. I target shoot so remaining energy is irrelevant to me. I have shot my 223 AR with a 24” barrel and 75g bullets side by side with a 224 Valkyrie with 90g bullets at 1,000 Yards. The Valkyrie was a bit better, less drop and less wind drift which really helped on that particular trip. I have a video of the trip if you would like to see how they compare. See you next time!

[@bills1613]

Experience, knowledge, and wisdom in a non condescending presentation = class. Thanks for the info. I hadn't looked into the 224 Valerie. To be honest I figured that it was just another gimmick cartridge like the like the 300 BLK, and certainly isn't anything I need or want. But, I would like to thank you for the info so now I'll know more about what's going on when I hear all the hype, and you presented it in your usual way that I was still VERY interested and appreciative the entire presentation even though like I said going in that the 224 wasn't/isn't anything I'm interested in for myself, and I still come away learning or understanding something now even if I may have heard you discuss before, such as barrel twist rates. For some reason it 'stuck' better this time. Thanks and God bless yo sir.

[@danielmaine45]

Seriously one of the better videos I've seen about the cartridge...

[@BigSmartArmed]

1. "concept cartridge" 2. "something romantic they would do with their gun" Priceless!

[@frankmiller95]

Your description of a the effect on a bullet travelling from supersonic to subsonic speed is the clearest, most succinct explanation imaginable, especially to a sailor. As scientists like to say, it's an exquisitely elegant analogy. Well said.

[@o2wow]

Right on the money and exactly why we cannot complain about women buying shoes.

[@leovasquez5501]

I’ve been ignoring this video for years because I don’t want a .224. I’m so glad I finally clicked on it. Learned a lot about long range shooting.

[@darrinwarner4046]

The Valkyrie was made for precision AR pattern rifles. So the mag length requirement of a heavy high bc 224 bullet was the exact question it answers. In that area it kills 223/5.56 at every corner with a 20+ inch barrel. Federal has solved the jacket coming loose and the accuracy issues with it as well. The reason to go with a higher bc bullet is not just trajectory but to buck the wind. The best way to improve your accuracy of a system is to buck the wind better. Instead of just reading tech articles go find someone with one and try it. Frank Galli has video of him hitting 2112 yards so it works as advertised. It’s also not designed to be used in a 16 inch barrel. I’m not trying to be rude, but your arguments against it aren’t even what it designed for.

[@slimjim7411]

Agree 100% having shot the .223 in a 20" heavy barrel side by side with my 24" heavy barrel .224 val down range there is a huge difference. On paper it seems like a small difference but in the field under real conditions there is no comparison. It's the difference between being able to dial everything at the bench vs field conditions. Where you're shooting 360 degree's and might have to compensate for 4 different types of wind, elevation changes, etc. This is a coyote slaying hooligan in the field, and why around where I live they have a big shelf for .224 valkyrie ammo, and it stays almost empty.

[@Hoytbuff]

Darrin Warner 2000 yards! Bawhaaa! Sure it wasn’t 5000! I call bullshit!

[@darrinwarner4046]

@@Hoytbuff he's got video on snipershide. But whatever douchebag.

[@me2bfc]

I do find it interesting that the AR15 platform is so popular that it's worth developing cartridges just for that platform. 6.5 Grendel, 6.8 SPC, 224 Valkyrie, 458 Socom, 50 Beowulf, and a few others wouldn't exist were it not for people trying to find different cartridges that can expand the usefulness of the AR15 platform. It's the same concept as the old T/C Contender and the interchangeable barrels, just in semi-auto.

[@davesweeney871]

What a great concept the contender line up was. TC was truly innovative as being able to actually implement accurate and consistent enough manufacturing techniques to equip a plethora of cartridges. And even today TC has a very innovative hunting rifle called the dimension. Its a switch barrel. I have one in 243 and 7rm. They look odd but damn they are comfortable shouldered and they absolutely live up to their moa guarantee. It takes less than 5 minutes to swap barrels. 10 or more cartridge options now. And the scope stays on a receiver,meaning you can have 4 different barrels which equates to 4 different rifles essentially,but with the dimension the scope stays,saving you cash in gear. yeah. TC is really and interesting company. I think they make the contender 2 now......

[@cjr4286]

What do you think of using the .224 Valkyrie for hunting deer with an AR15-platform rifle? Coming from your video about sectional density, a .224-caliber bullet that is at least 85 grains will achieve a sectional density of .240 or greater.

[@kickinitoutdoors5782]

I have a Howa 1500 bolt action 24 inch heavy barrel in 223 rem, and I got it to do the velocities you spoke of. I can push a 62 or 68 grain bullet at amazing velocities, 3050 to 3200 or more. I use it for Ground hogs and coyotes. That in my mind is the design factor for the 223.

[@GunBlue490]

Yes, your barrel length accounts for your velocities, and I believe Howa is a CIP standard chamber, if I'm not mistaken, which is the same as a NATO chamber that permits those velocities. Just keep in mind that velocity is secondary to accuracy, and each additional 100 fps is only adding a few feet of downrange trajectory for the added punishment your cases receive. They make a good rifle.

[@RemoteViewr1]

Honestly, 100 yards is a long way away. 200 yards is max range for a lot of hunters. I appreciate your point about distance in real life.

[@borisbuliak3626]

Longest shot 170ish in 50 yrs, think I could stretch it to 250-300 on a very good day. Most kills are within 75 yds in my neck of the woods down south anyways.

[@JacksonMalcolm]

Out east nobody shoots far at all. I have over a mile to shoot 10 minutes from my house and regularly shoot past 1k yards. I agree, a lot of people won't take full advantage of what their caliber of choice can offer. But out here people are regularly pushing the limits.

[@a68dart340]

I have hunted for nearly 40 years and very very few shots at over 100 yards...

[@nathanlambshead4778]

@@borisbuliak3626 Up in New Hampshire and Maine, my typical shot is 30 yards. My longest was 55. My shortest was right around 6 feet! (which I missed haha)

[@1RobHunter1]

300 blackout is so popular because it is ... 12 cents a case, 3 cent a primer, 8 cent powder, 20 cent bullet = 43 cents for a Sub MOA round that with shot placement, no recoil, it kills. You have to shoot one to judge it first. 125gr Speer TNT or 125 Hornady SST are it's saving grace. The 110gr copper barnes are too expensive to me. 360 rounds made from 1 lb of powder = cost effective and upper swap out from varmint to deer hunting. A lot of Military Veterans are used to carrying M4 for years in combat and 300 blackout in 16 barrel is same weight / profile and low cost to reload with sub MOA accurate for woods hunting. Hunting with a bow kills deer every year with no where near the factors involved.

[@GaryIKILLYOU]

This. And if you shoot a lot of 5.56 and invest in a mini cutoff saw, congrats you have practically free brass.

[@robertgregg979]

And I realize this is unrelated to this current video, I was just trying to find your most recent. Sincerely appreciate all of your knowledge thank you sir,I have watched so many of your videos thank you

[@BigRedPower59]

Greetings Captain. First, I’d like to thank you (again) for all of the wonderful information. I realize that it takes a great deal of time and effort to film, edit and publish these videos. I greatly appreciate all of your effort. Your series on rifle cartridges has proven to be of great help to me in a couple of purchasing decisions. Now, I have been presented the opportunity to purchase another rifle. It’s a 1977 production M77 in 6mm Remington. Sadly, I have not found much useful information pertaining to the 6mm Remington. Personally, I think that if you could find the time to research and produce an video that is dedicated to this particular cartridge that it would serve to not only enlighten people like me but, dispel any misinformation that may be out there. Regards.

[@GunBlue490]

BigRedPower59 I will place that on my to-do list. In the meanwhile, I will advise you according to historical fact and my knowledge of the cartridge, first hand, of both rifle and cartridge. I owned two model 77 rifles, was the instructor and armorer for our departmental 77s used by our snipers, and shot another extensively owned by a dear friend. They all were of that era, shot marvelously, and were easy to care for. During my in house factory training at the Newport New Hampshire Ruger plant, I received specific trying on the 77. I recommend one to anyone who likes the looks and handling, as they will serve well and durably. A couple of things: For best accuracy, the two main outboard receiver screws should be anchored tightly with the action tightly against the recoil lug contact surface. The center screw should receive a drop of medium LocTite and simply bottomed with a bare minimum of tightness to hold the trigger guard firmly. Undue tightness of the center screw can affect accuracy adversely with any three screw gun. The 6mm Remington: I've spoken of the round a number of times, relating to its unfortunate marketing mismanagement by Remington. First released under the name 244 Remington in answer to Winchester's 243, it had the advantage of greater velocity. Unfortunately, Remington believed the bore size was a varminting round, rather than realizing the interest in it as a dual use round, so they didn't provide quick enough rifling twist to stabilize heavy bullets for deer. Winchester, with much oversight and advice by their friend and advocate of the cartridge Warren Page, correctly twisted the rifling for bullets up to 100 grain. I don't fault Remington for that; Page was writing up the 243 as an answer to Remington's 257 Roberts, so I believe Remington didn't want to compete against themselves for the dual use market. However, on realizing the interest in the 243 was solid, and folks were complaining of the 244s lacking, they revised the rifles and renamed the cartridge the 6mm Remington. The result was a beautifully accurate round, over 100 feet second swifter than the swift 243. Ballistically, it is slightly superior to the 243, with up to 30 yards more reach on point blank hold. Using the incredibly well balanced 7x57 Mauser case, which is also used to develop the wonderful 257 Roberts, it certainly had accuracy every bit as fine as the 243, and with no negatives. However, Winchester got the drop on them, and the rest was history. Ironically, Remington did the 6mm in for good with the dual use success of their own 25-06. Their own fabulous 257 Roberts got killed in a hail of bullets from both sides, with Page taking pot shots with his 243 in the press, and with Remington upping the ante with the same bore size in the '06 case. I believe that Winchester got the upper hand in the market being first, and capitalized on Remington's early fumble for a while, but the real reason for the eventual demise of the 6mm Remington was far more complex than that. While not so today, metric designations didn't give Americans the warm and fuzzies 35 years ago, and that became a hugely angry issue during the President Carter administration, when he was setting America to convert to the metric system. Point for Winchester. The 243 was a darling for women and youths, with its manageable recoil, while the larger case of the 6mm Remington was not quite so friendly to smaller shooters. Point for Winchester. Popularity feeds on its own energy, and Winchester was the more popular. Americans have always loved both Winchester and Remington, but I personally believe that Winchester just always had a more romantic name in American culture, and that gave them a bit of advantage. Point Winchester. Finally, Warren Page was to the 243 Winchester what Jack O'Connor was to the 270 Winchester, and Remington simply didn't have an advocate for their 6mm Remington. Point Winchester. Two dogs fight just for so long until that moment when one concedes defeat and runs off with his tail down. While they may make a few occasionally, Remington just quietly dropped the 6mm as a chambering and turned their attention to their successful rounds, rather than continuing a fight they could not win. Game Winchester. My dad owned a Model 700 Remington 6mm. It was a fabulously accurate round with all bullet weights. Any information to the contrary is indeed misinformation. I can name a number of rounds that failed that had absolutely nothing to do with their performance, and such is the case with the 6mm Remington. The 260 Remington, 280 Remington, 284 Winchester, 220 Swift (Winchester) and so many others, were exceptional cartridges that never got the attention they could have, and which were often victimized by writers' poison pens and ignorant remarks passed around lamely. Remington is the company that gave America and the world the 222 line of cartridges that includes the 223 Remington/5.56 NATO. They never engineered a bad product, but sometimes timing was off, or they didn't read the market correctly, or have the right folks on their side. With everything being a love affair now with metric cartridges, I think the table would be turned if the 6mm and 243 were competing today.

[@1RobHunter1]

GunBlue490 = I do absolutely cherish your videos you have put out though. Awesome work and outstanding knowledge especially on sporter barrels and accuracy factors = truth.

[@joeyheyne3255]

I'm curious as to how many of the nay-sayers in this comment section have actually had any real world experience with this caliber or are just regurgitating what they've watched on KZbin. I own a .224 Valkyrie and have had a blast with it. The barrel was $275 from CMMG and the bolt was $75 from White Oak Armament. I install the barrel and bolt into an existing rifle I had and was up and running. Pretty moderate amount spent to benefit from a cartridge capable of reaching farther than the .223 Remington in an AR-15. To the comment section, please don't trash a cartridge you've never used just because it's the trend.

[@GunBlue490]

You are correct about it's ballistics. My presentation examines the practical aspect of the round for folks to weigh. If one requires a round that may be loaded from a magazine of an AR rifle that can reach the same distance as a hand fed .223 or 5.56 round, it's just the ticket. I oppose no caliber's existence, nor anyone who desires to own one. Enjoy your new rifle, and be happy you have what you desire. Don't concern yourself that others don't share your enthusiasm, and don't expect that your decision will be validated by everyone. That's the way to ulcers. People have different tastes in everything from cars to furniture. I shoot and enjoy my obsolete 257 Roberts that most practical folks have no reason to consider owning. Whyould you expect everyone to like what you enjoy? Just enjoy it and don't worry about what others think. If one truly desires an extreme long range .224 bullet, the Valkyrie isn't in the club either, and there have been a number of rounds that shoot farther for many decades. It's just AR specific, provided one needs an AR.

[@joeyheyne3255]

@@GunBlue490 Oh, I'll be the first to agree that it's not for everyone. Especially if you aren't a reloader! I can't expect them to share my enthusiasm, but I can expect them to form an unbiased opinion of a cartridge that they more than likely have no personal experience with. It's easy, in the KZbin comment section, to stand tall of the content creators shoulders condemning a cartridge that they've never shot, never reloaded for or can't grasp the general concept of. That's where I draw my complaint. Not on the fact that they may not like the caliber I choose, but that they haven't tried it for themselves and are quickly dismissing it. I don't personally know anyone that owns/fires a .257 Roberts, but I wouldn't go on anyone's KZbin channel telling people that it's "Hype" because the internet has told me it is. I would formulate my own opinion based on personal experience. One thing I'm hoping you understand is that I'm in no way disappointed in you or your content, just the jackals in the comment section. I enjoy your opinion and therefore watch your content. I will also say that you are incorrect in saying that the .224 bullets in the .224 Valkyrie aren't extreme long range bullets. I've on more than one occasion had many successful hits on an 18"x24" steel target at 1,200 yards. I'm sure to some people 1,200 yards with a .224 bullet from the AR-15 platform isn't a long shot, but I can assure you it is. Also, if that isn't sufficient in contradicting the long range claim, I implore you to view Frank Galli's video on the Sniper's Hide channel were he is successful with the caliber to over 2,100 yards. If you need the link I will surely send it your way. Again, I'm happy with your channel, your content and your opinion, but I'm most happy with my decision to shoot .224 Valkyrie. Thanks for having the conversation with me!

[@530eman]

Love my Aero Precision.224 with a 22” barrel 1:7 twist. Love it. Now I want to try 24” barrel 1:6.5 twist…🤔

[@USAACbrat]

I totally agree with your analysis of the Ar-15 platform; the fact that it has achieved cult status means that it will be in the woods for a long time with many shooters, mainly to avoid wounded game, a cartridge for close to medium range hunting (95% of successful hunts) a cartridge with near 7mm Mauser capability, I hunted for 20 years with .lem, b50 BP . Ar hunters are a fact even though few calibers are hunting capable for other small game. Long shots mostly, small bullets, and poor penetration means more wounded game. I really appreciate your detailed reply. you go a long way to bring basics to new shooters and an honest appraisal.

[@thomask5605]

I really enjoy the way you cut through the hype and get to the facts!! I came to the conclusion after balancing the facts that the .224 wasn't any thing I needed in all practicality and did not offer for my needs any advantages over the .223. Thank you for sharing your vast knowledge and practical experience and thank you for your service in Vietnam!

[@MarkThomas-pf8ml]

Although it's not the center focused topic of this video, the 300 Blackout was designed to be a replacement or an alternative to the aging MP5 platform. A very good reliable room clearing tool, yet the 9mm was coming up short in some situations, when dealing with obstacles and body armor. The Blackout can utilize light-for caliber projectiles and easily defeat normal body armor and obstacles, and maintain stealth with Sub-Sonic loads for close distances... It doesn't do it all, but can do some tasks that it was designed for, and in a lighter, smaller package without suffering much from a reduced barrel length... An 8.5" barrel can still launch a 110gr Barnes all copper projectile at 2,230 fps. Adequate for room clearing distances.

[@GunBlue490]

A room clearing tool? Please peddle your fascinations elsewhere, but not here. We have had far too much room clearing by sick monsters.

[@mattipps]

@@GunBlue490 You are a wealth of knowledge and I love your videos, but that is the most FUDD thing I have ever heard. You are completely and obviously biased against the 300 blackout, and it sounds like the ar platform in general. My question is why? Do you think we as Americans shouldn't own ar15's now? Because there is nothing wrong with the cartridge, it creates the same power as an m4 with a 14.5" barrel while having a 9" barrel. I don't understand why all the hate.

[@LKaramazov]

Yeah, names are important for marketing. .300 blackout just sounds so cool! Valkyrie too!

[@Paelorian]

38 minutes, two main points: "You can get the same performance out of a 5.56 NATO if you're willing to single-feed handloads directly into the action one by one instead of using a magazine." And: "Is it worth using a niche cartridge just to use these heavier longer bullets that can stay subsonic potentially up to 1300 yards? Are you often goinf shoot targets that far with this round?" Clearly this is a round for when people want better BCs from their semi-autos than what they can fit into their STANAG (AR-15) magazines. I don't think the fact that this bullet doesn't have much to offer the single-shot rifle shooter is much of a mark against it. The AR-15 has excellent accuracy potential for a semi-auto, but the cartridges it can feed don't have legs to go very far. I'm not that interested in the .224 AR as a 1000yd+ rifle because it's a peashooter at the maximum subsonic range and a rifle-power cartridge would be more appropriate. I am, however, interested in it for the "SPR" role, making shots beyond 300yds easier and more effective. Especially the wind deflection from the higher BC. This seems a very attractive and realistic use scenario. A lightweight semi-auto rifle with lightweight ammo that is a capable DMR. If the 5.56 has a 300yd effective range but can "go long" if the need arises, I'd probably think of the .224 as at most having double the effective range, with that ability to "go long" if the need arises. I'm most interested in better performance at 300-500yds. Why go to all the trouble of using a niche cartridge? Because ballistically there's no downside. The .224 is basically the same power as the 5.56mm. I think I read it can fit one more grain of powder, maybe. So it's got 5.56mm performance at close range, including recoil, and better performance at long range. It's a very efficient low-recoil cartridge for what it offers. I agree, it would probably be even better if it didn't have the design constraint of having to fit into an AR-15 magazine. But accept that that's what this round is for. And the AR-15 offers capabilities it otherwise would not have. As an semi-auto round, with rifles and accessories available, it's outstanding and one of the most practical choices available. Leave the AR-15 and step up to bigger cartridges and you get even more power and long range capabilities, but at a major cost in added weight and/or recoil. The .224 is basically just a 5.56 with a higher BC bullet. That alone makes it impressive and worthwhile if you want to shoot an AR-15 at long range as many people do.

[@Shooter7point62]

Hit the nail on the head. Everyone looks at the valkyrie as a 1000 yard cartridge because that's how it's marketed. The brilliance of the 224 is that is makes the AR15 a truly viable 600 yard SEMI AUTO rifle.

[@Shooter7point62]

@Otium Borealis The grendel is definitely a great cartridge especially if you're already stocking 6.5 reloading components. That's what the valkyrie brings - a 22 caliber option. The big downside to the grednel is the case head size and how it weakens the bolt face. I will say barrel life is probably much better with the Grendel

[@darwin5763]

The way you laid things out is common sense brilliance.

[@Fredmullegun]

The image moving around with high power 30-40x scopes is from your eye's small movements called microsaccades. Your eyes constantly move slightly to refresh the image on the retina and prevent blindness. Completely imperceptible until you make your eye 40 times bigger with a huge scope and a fixational gaze. This is completely different than mirage at range.

[@GunBlue490]

Fredmullegun True and not true. The aberration you describe is a constant, regardless of conditions. The mirage I described is absolutely increased as the barrel heats up, and as the atmospheric conditions change through the day, and is absolutely a greater effect.

[@Fredmullegun]

Oh, you are talking about mirage off the barrel etc. gotcha. What I'm talking about messes me up at 50 yards. I thought you meant that when you said benchrest.

[@1RobHunter1]

GunBlue490, I have to disagree with you on the 300 Blackout. I too was skeptical until I fired them and then reload for them. 360 cartridges per 1lb of powder. With a 125gr Hornady SST and 18-19gr lil gun = 2200 -2300 fps and perfect 100yds and under woods gun for deer. A 6 lb AR15 in a 16" barrel, 1-4x optic in 300blkout = under an inch groups at 100 yards, 15-20 inch penetration = pass through, mushroom bullet, and dead 150 lb white tail. It has to be used within limits though and it is a woods gun only. Hornady sells the 125gr SST in 308 win downloaded to 2500-2600fps marketed for deer. So it fits the bandwidth at 100yds and under work by engineering design and my testing.

[@ashmerch2558]

Interesting.... but with sectional density issues coupled with the decreased velocity compared too conventional hunting rounds, do you feel under gunned? or am I just too picky.... I much prefer the feel of a Winchester 94, or savage 99 too the AR... but you really peaked my interest into a .300 AAC Blackout conversion on the old AR... a real upgrade of stopping power close (80-100 yards) in.

[@Thetailofthetrident]

I have no need for the .224 Valkyrie. I would not use a .224 for deer or any other medium or large game. I'd use it for Varmints possum, raccoon, and up to Bobcats, Coyote. But gee wiz, I already have a cartridge for that .223. And even if it had the chutzpah to knock down a deer at 1000+ yards I'd still just rather go with a harder hitting cartridge such as .308, or .270 for the animal's sake. Thank you for doing what you do. You're the most practical man on youtube. Thanks again!

[@CutbankOutdoors]

So the moral here is the Valkyrie is a niche cartridge. I still plan to try one because ammo and rifle prices have dropped for the .224 in adition I wanted something better against wind at longer range 4-600yds than the 223. The 243 was the plan and scrapped for an AR platform. I'm sure reloading will be required to reach full potential in terms of velocity and accuracy but that's not a big surprise for anything available these days.

[@ajbranson2]

Basically to sum up 224V, If you are punching holes in paper at long range (1000-1300yds) or shooting varmits, it MIGHT be something your interested in. If you want to hunt at longer ranges, get a .270, 6.5, 300wm, etc... lol

[@davidelizabeth4933]

Very informative discussion on this new cartridge that seems to be all the rage. You've helped us understand that from a real world practical standpoint, we really have no need for this cartridge. By the way, we're thrilled to see your channel continue to grow the way it is. Thank you as always for your willingness to share the gifts and knowledge He has bestowed upon you.

[@travelerfourever1347]

Thank you for sharing your Valkyrie research. I've learned a lot. I always enjoy learning.

[@williammawk1720]

I agree with you about the 300 Blackout. I think it was designed to shoot house flies while sitting on the camode. I honestly have no idea why it was designed...

[@toguro5117]

Its for mall ninjas

[@joefw2446]

IIRC... AAC developed the 300 BO as a lethal subsonic alternative to 5.56 to be used with suppressors for groups like special forces. So 300 BO in an AR platform with short barrel plus suppressor gives you a carbine length weapon.

[@justaregularguy3827]

NO the .300 whisper now the .300 blackout from aac and there Honey Badger rifle with the suppresor on make this round really fucking quiet from when i shot one its mainly the action i heard cycling thats all from the shooters end with 220 gr subs

[@billstearns9566]

Oh... Well since you haven't done any research about 300 blackout, nobody should buy it.

[@5roundsrapid263]

It’s great for close quarters. I have a pistol build in case somebody breaks in. It’s a lot cheaper than an MP5.

[@philippefrater2000]

Good to see you Sir!

[@scottc3165]

Just being a fly on the wall and learning. Thank you.

[@louannwatt4447]

Another great vid. Thank you again. Merry Christmas from Tennessee. Doug

[@dexter2433]

i think i have found the happy medium I just put together a classic with my AR10 chambered in win 243 with a 22" barrel ....very soft recoil and very fast even with a 90g bullet at 3000 fps and it is a 1/9 twist

[@davesweeney871]

A 9 twist should stabiize the heavier pills,like the hornady match hpbt. I use it in my 243. It was the cartridge i used when i popped my first 1000 meter milk jug. Its a great bullet and 3000ft/s is doable with a 24" tube

[@KurtOnoIR]

Sounds awesome!

[@shannonnunn]

I have one with a 22 inch 6.5 twist 5r bartlein barrel and it shoots bugholes. The wind doesn't touch it. I am shooting AA .6 bc. Bullet at 2600 ft per second in a 8lb semi automatic. It is a good rig for short or long distance. It takes a reloader to make it shine though and you have to load for it like a bench rest gun.

[@brianlee6849]

What is your opinion on the wildcat 22 creedmoor? I've watched your video on the 22-250 and I'm trying to decide between the two. I'm going to build a model 70 Winchester with a 26 inch barrel one in 8 twist and a Lyman 48 aperture site. I've read the 1 in 8 twist works extremely well in the 22 creedmoor up to 88 grain bullets. This rifle will be for Target fun and garment. Let me know what you think? Thank you

[@Johnny-jr2lq]

Nonetheless great video I think I almost was swept up in the hype of the 224 valkyrie name I just went ahead and got a 233/556 20” wylde barrel from faxon and I’m gonna see how it preforms

[@GunBlue490]

Johnathen Stommel I've a Wylde chamber on rather my 20 inch National Match barrel and it performs superbly. Good luck with yours.

[@parvaflorum]

Do you have a powder/bullet recommendation for a 30-06 with an 18 inch heavy barrel? 1 for target and 1 for elk (copper only)? Mauser 98 custom with mannlicher stock.

[@arkenopticsusadealer9215]

The most insightful group on how to reload the Valkyrie is the Facebook group Valkyrie Ascending focused on reloading this cartridge since it came out there is over 2+ years ago with tons of knowledge in the group.. @t

[@shadewoodhull2489]

Regarding new cartridges, would you consider a video on the 450 Bushmaster? Here in Michigan the lower 1/3 of the state is restricted to using a straight walled cartridge, 35 caliber or larger between 1.16" & 1.80" in length. The 450 Bushmaster is immensely popular here and it would be wonderful to hear your take on the subject. As always, thank you for your gift of knowledge.

[@shadewoodhull2489]

I neglected to mention the above mentioned restrictions applies to deer hunting.

[@tubeonline629]

I like the way you romanticized the different cartridge names, that shows your true affection for firearms. I believe the .300 Blackout was made so popular with the suppressor shooters, you know the tactical stealth ninjas.

[@5roundsrapid263]

.300 BLK is great for a PDW, because short barrels don’t affect velocity much. I wouldn’t go elk hunting with it, but up close, it’s good. It’s like a .45ACP with better BC.

[@mattipps]

@@5roundsrapid263 dont fret the small stuff. FUDDS will never get it, all they ever use is guns with wood stocks. Lol.

[@ibdaffy9000]

I surely enjoyed your video discussing the .224 Valkyrie. I do wish to try my hand at long range shooting, introduce my children to the sport of shooting (mild recoil and accuracy), and enjoy some hunting (from varmints to deer/hog) all at a fairly economical cost of ammunition in an AR-15 platform. I will be going to the range, I will be providing some chronograph numbers from a Radical Firearms .224 Valkyrie 18 inch barrel.

[@chrismills4213]

What can I say... well done sir👍

[@TheWarriorsMind]

Look, the 224 valk. Is a fine round. I own 3 (18, 22, 24 inch) and each shoots great. The true hype is the 22 arc. Hornady plays with the stats. The 224 valk actually shoots equal or better than the 22 arc. As far as the 224 valk compared to the 223 rem., it is 250-300 fps faster. A 75 gr round is 3000 fps at the muzzle from a 224 valk compared to 2740 fps from a 223.

[@rickvetfrommissouri7950]

I'm not arguing with you, just telling you my results. I haven't had any light bullets come apart, but the 60 & 75 gr factory loads won't group good at all in mine. But I built an 18 in. gun for that. You are a wealth of information, and I really like your videos.

[@mackbolan1733]

I love watching your excellent videos mate, thanks very much for sharing and please continue to share your fantastic amount of knowledge with us :)

[@craigbenz4835]

Hornady 9th ed. also has reloading data for the NATO. Thanks for the great video.

[@darrinmcgann]

Great talk sir! You just saved me a chunk of change on a new upper

[@stephenhair5501]

I couldn't agree more. Very good insights and thoughts. Thank you for sharing. God Bless and Stay well, Sir.

[@donaldheine6243]

My problem with the Valkyrie is reloading the case. The primer pocket gets loose very quick. You will loose half your brass after 2 reloads. You might do better with a bolt action. But out of an AR the brass doesn't last long. I'm hoping the 6 MM ARC does better.

[@williammawk1720]

What is your opinion of the 6mm Remington which has gone almost totally by the wayside?

[@tbjtbj4786]

My wife and I love the old 6 mm. And I am now looking for one for my grandson. I have used it for nearly 30 years thaken turkey,hogs,deer,yotes with it. I have to do some depperdation permits on the farm some years. Knock on wood I have a run of 29 one shot kills on deer and hogs with the federal 80 gr. round. It's all my wife has ever used.

[@terryhenry8243]

6mm Remington, great round. Better than the barrel burning .243 Winchester which it competes with. Originally got off to a bad start as the .244 Remington but was corrected long ago with the faster 9 twist barrel. Late to the party but nevertheless the best 6mm cartridge available.

[@Shooter7point62]

Interesting take on the blackout. The 300 excels as a PDW/SBR cartridge especially when supressed. It is a niche cartridge but certainly has a valid use.

[@camnusg6137]

Thanks again for imparting some knowledge on us.

[@ryandrakes9925]

I thought that the 300 blackout was to replace pistol calibre SMG's because the 300 blackout was able to penetrate and knock down targets with its greater mass and energy as well as penetrate body armour within 50 yards. It was not intended for long range engagements.

[@GunBlue490]

That's rather a confined distance, especially if the guy shooting at you doesn't understand your 50 yard rule.

[@SootHead]

Didn't expect to get so much good .223/5.56 stuff here, thanks. Have a 20" AR 1:9 and it's very versatile ... shooting 45 grain JHP varmint rounds @ 3600 (or so), 55 grains @ around 3200 and 62 grain @ under 3000 (IIRC). Not much difference in accuracy between them, at least within the realm of what this shooter is capable. I have some 77 grains but haven't tried them yet. They might be stretching the envelope a little for a 1:9 barrel but they were on sale and you never know until you try! A topic request: I suspect we are near enough the same age that you might understand how vision can go to pot in the shooting environment for older folks. I was at the range recently and it came to the fore using open sights target shooting with both pistol and rifle. Not a big deal for self defense type scenarios, but definitely a problem for bullseye shooting... which I love to do. With the two sets of bifocals I have, I can either see the target clearly over the sights, and the sights are fuzzy, or vice versa. For the varmint and deer hunting I do, a scope is necessary for me now to deliver the kind of accuracy ethical hunting demands. If you have faced this situation, or have some knowledge of the topic, it would be interesting to hear your take on it. I plan on addressing it with my optometrist the next exam but from what I have read so far, I am not hopeful Also, I understand why you want to retain some anonymity, but couldn't we have a first name at least? We get a feeling that we know you through these great videos and it's disconcerting not to have a name.

[@GunBlue490]

I strongly recommend that you consider cataract surgery. I had both eyes done two years ago, and now shoot without prescription glasses again. As for my anonymity, it's done for my privacy. There has been an unfortunate history of home "visitations" that are quite disturbing, and with the current anti-gun atmosphere, even more so. I wish sincerely that I could, but I simply cannot for personal safety and privacy.

[@SootHead]

Understood completely!

[@WhatIsYourMalfunction]

You are lucky, as a friend of mine was. Unfortunately, cataract surgery is no panacea. I had both eyes done and now have to still wear glasses AND have large floaters in both eyes I have to wait to float away to see a clear image in a scope. Seeing both the front sight and the target is hit or miss past 15 yards. My surgeons (2 doctors did one eye each over the years) said it happens, and there is nothing to be done about it. Count your blessings if you have totally clear vision after cataract surgery.

[@marcogram1216]

I have tried those little stick on apertures that go on my shooting glasses and they have worked great. Check out "Eyepal" peep sights.

[@robertgregg979]

Thank you sir for your reply and those words of wisdom which is so hard to find in this day,Again thank you and I will support your channel

[@sandych33ks1]

Thanks for another great video. I could listen to this for hours. I don't think the Valkeryi is worth it or a super cartridge. I personally believe the 22-250 is a much better cartridge. In the 22 caliber and it's cheaper and proven. Saying this I know most are bolt guns as mine are in the caliber. Yet it can be and has been put in an AR platform. It's the same story twist rate and barrel length will determine the best bullet. You could put a faster twist on the 22-250 and shoot 90 grain pills. Any how thanks for another great video. I truly enjoy listening and hearing your perspective

[@nchobbyman]

I have 3 22-250's, one in 1:8 twist shooting 80gr Bergers, so I am familiar. Sandy, please explain how you can fit a 250 in an AR15 which is the point of the Valc.

[@tomr5530]

Good afternoon Sir, I just have a question about your progressive press. Since I've been loading on the classic turret press and have pretty much all the dies I need , do you just buy the the press by itself and are there other extras needed to go with it? I'm really interested in running 3 or 4 calibers in larger quantities. and their(Lee''s) choices seem a little confusing. Oh and I did get a 224 upper I'm going to give it a try. I called Lee and it looks like their going to make the dies for them pretty soon

[@GunBlue490]

Tom R Lee makes the press supplied with or without dies, set up and ready. Dies are same as yours, but the Load Master requires a five station turret for each caliber, and it uses a 5 station shell plate appropriate to the case head, same as a shell holder. I did two videos on setup for pistols using the 45 ACP, and another one for the 223, which is a bit different. Titan reloading is a good place to call for purchase advice, but I think getting it set up for a pistol caliber is a bit more complete parts wise, and then change out for rifles.

[@tomr5530]

Thanks Blue I'll check out the videos first then give Titan a call

[@DeeMoback]

I enjoy your videos....and your knowledge which you so freely share..... old knowledge....good stuff...... so many old rounds that are still awesome today....270, .280, .284, .260, .244, .257 ,.222 ...... so many virtually forgotten by the new breed

[@my300zx96]

Jay Thomas Reset and the 308 wich the military use to handle the new kind of soldier with new generation body armor what ever the 5.56 cant handle the 308 will thats why some special forces unit started carrying the FN Scar17

[@DeeMoback]

my300zx96 agreed.....back in the old days we did our longrange with the 30-06...... now everything is .308 or .300 .... .and btw, that .308 has done a fine job everywhere its used and can easily be fired from a weapon that's LIGHT ENOUGH TO CARRY..... LOL

[@DeeMoback]

yes, 308 has a nice soft recoil .... good point

[@Strutingeagle]

The 300 blackout appeals to those that are preparing to have to need a rifle powerful enough to kill game and people at a time and location where the sound of a high power rifle would give away their position. Much like knife people that have to have the right balance for fighting with it. Realistically they will never need it but they insist on certain qualities just the same.

[@GunBlue490]

Strutingeagle Imaginations of toy soldiers dancing in their heads. Military service is the cure.

[@nchobbyman]

@@GunBlue490 both of you are ignorant. I've killed quite a few deer with mine, unsuppressed as I don't own a suppressor.

[@uralbob1]

As always, your explanation and descriptions are right on the money. The Valkyrie is another cartridge toy that makes our shooting lives interesting, but to me, it's just marketing fluff and hype. If this new cartridge is interesting to you, go for it. There isn't a cartridge introduced or invented since the mid-sixties that older/proven cartridges can't match. There is no wonder cartridge. Cartridge performance is determined and defined between your ears.

[@frankschneider5566]

I believe you bashed the 300 Blk a bit which is fine. You are a wealth of knowledge and that's your opinion and i can respect that. I had a Ruger Ranch in a 300 Blk and I just figured it wasn't going to get the love that it deserves so i sold it to a guy that wanted it for his daughter to use for deer hunting down south and she loves that thing and is killing deer with it with one shot kills. I don't feel that a .30 cal 135 gn bullet traveling 2200 fps from the muzzle is by any means a 50 yard ballistic dud. The venerable 30-30 cant be much more than 200 fps faster with the same bullet & I still take an sbr 300 Blk as a back up for hog hunting in case some local family & friends want to join our hog hunts with us. Its a fun little cartridge and cheep as heck to load. Anyway, long live the Valk!!! Im wanting a bolt action version now.

[@KurtOnoIR]

First let me say great video. Lots of great points here. Just one thing is there's a lot of 1 in 7 twist barrels out there that are stabilizing the 90 and 95gr smk bullets. There's a guy on here that shows it repeatedly while comparing 6.5 and 7 twist barrels and he had just an 18" barrel. Mine is 22" and has no trouble (usually). I have had trouble stabilizing the 88gr eld match sometimes. I have no idea why. Maybe you are going to speak on this later (I havnt watch the whole video yet).

[@DeeMoback]

The 224 Valkyrie is already fading in the headlines.....LOL....amazing ..... now the rage is straight-wall cartridges!!!! ....... 350 LEGEND is supposed to take marketplace by storm!!!! ..... LOL LOL .....hilarious stuff.....people are amazing

[@mattipps]

For people that can't hunt with anything but a straight wall cartridge, it is a game changer. I'm sorry you didnt know that.

[@strat1080]

I agree about manufacturers neglecting to advertise barrel length. I’ve always found the 7mm Rem Mag to be highly overrated and marginally bettering than a 270. You need ac26” barrel to get the best of it.

[@jimsiggy]

FYI, approximately 3.1 miles is the supposed horizon, at an observer height of roughly 6'.

[@yesterdayshero2916]

Good video, the Valkyrie suits my needs, I hope Starline keeps making brass.

[@stephenhair5501]

Ft. Gordon, right here in my backyard. I drive down the Gordon Hwy. nearly daily. You must have frequented several Gun Shops while stationed here. Widener Arms or The Gun Cabinet were two that were around during your stay here. Bought my first rifle from Widener Arms so many years ago. Small world isn't it. God Bless.

[@GunBlue490]

They kept trainees on short leash, restricted to the post, so I never got to town. 3.2 near beer served in quart size popcorn cups at the PX with a juke box playing was a night on the town. 😄

[@rdsii64]

I would like to hear your thoughts on the 22 Nosler please.

[@GunBlue490]

rdsii64 I might do something on that. It's a rebated rim cartridge that allows the standard AR15 bolt face with an enlarged diameter body, giving it about 25 percent more powder capacity than the 223 in AR15 rifles. That translates to about 10 percent greater velocity, or about 250 to 300 fps, depending on bullet weights. Its velocity positions it approximately midway between the 22-250 and 223. In practical terms, one must determine if the much greater additional case cost purchases anything tangible. For the 600 yard and beyond shooter, it certainly allows slightly greater range over the 223 or 5.56mm in similar rifles. But for the person who shoots at standard ranges, the velocity increase is rather a moot issue, as little advantage is gained other than a slight increase in flatness and energy. But paper punchers are not playing with energy, and target shooters just set sights for each known range. Varmint shooters would be far better off with a bolt rifle with a 24 inch barrel, using an even faster 22-250, and inexpensive brass. The truly long range AR15 shooter would be better off with a better bullet in a Creedmoor, which has distinctly better ballistic coefficient. Personally, I consider improved AR15 rounds to be adventures in futility that have very little practical value for their vastly higher cost. Nosler is currently the only maker of the 22 Nosler, and I don't see that changing soon, which will guarantee expensive, possibly hard to find brass. Those are my thoughts.

[@5roundsrapid263]

GunBlue490 The bolt thrust is tough on the rebated rims. Unless you convert to a non-rebated rim, you only get about 3 firings from a case.

[@6269del]

Thank you very much for your insight and and wisdom God bless

[@robbieandbeckie]

Sierra 65gr. GameKing with Western 5.56 data is a fantastic load. In my experience the absolute best/easiest Ar15 cartridge is the 6x45mm.

[@KeystoneTexan]

I have a Rock River Arms Ar-15 in 223’Wylde chamber with a 18 inch match grade barrel with a 1:8 twist. What would be a ballpark velocity figure and a good bullet weight that would stabilize?

[@GunBlue490]

My Service Rifle upper is also a Rock River Arms with the same chambering and twist, in 20". It's a great twist rate for any bullet from 55 grains up to 80, though your rifle magazine will not accept a bullet longer than a 77 grain match bullet, and will require hand feeding for the 80. Your barrel being 18 inches will be slightly slower than a standard 20" barrel by only about 50 to 80 fps. or so in any given bullet weight. Lighter bullets may work, but faster twist rates can mean possibly tearing jackets or bullet deformation at higher velocities, with either disintegration in flight or poor accuracy. You won't know unless you try them. Standard 223 Remington velocities can run from about 3,000 fps. with a 55 grain bullet in an 18 inch barrel, to 2,600 or so with 80 grain bullets, depending on the loads used. I prefer Sierra bullets for most of my shooting, as they are both accurate and reasonably priced. I recommend that you purchase a copy of their handloading manual to see how each bullet performs, which is invaluable, whether you buy or handload. The 55 grain FMJ is a good plinking or target bullet to 200 yards. For superb accuracy to 300 yards, use the 69 grain, and for extended shooting to 600 yards, competitive shooters use either the 77 or 80. For varminting out to 300 yards, I would certainly try 50 and 55 grain Sierra Blitz Kings, and see which one works best. They are made with match accuracy, but are very explosive on varmints at 223 velocities. Though your rifle is CIP/NATO rated for pressure, your rifle will last lots longer if you stick with 223 Remington pressures, and your velocity is only going to be 100 to 150 fps. or so less, which is less than 30 yards downrange ballistics that you will never notice.

[@KeystoneTexan]

GunBlue490 thank you for taking the time to answer my question! I’m a new subscriber and really enjoy the knowledge you put forth on your channel!!

[@johnlummis8270]

Great analysis on the cartridge. I was lusting for something new, something cutting edge and earth shattering. I do not think I could justify biting on this latest offering. I currently shoot yotes with my 20" 5.56 with great results and I use my 6.5 Grendel during "doe" season. I do not see how the Valkyrie would shine any better than the Grendel when it comes to milking the most out of the Ar15 platform. I have a 100 grain Nosler running right at 2700 fps and sub MOA. If I wasn't already invested in the Grendel and had to choose between the two, I think I would probably go with the Grendel again due to the heavier bullet weights. What is wrong with the 6.8?....not much in my opinion. Was there a massive clamoring for the need to shoot a much heavier .224 bullet outside of the bench rest gang? The Valkyrie will kill a deer and it will kill a coyote or prairie dog. If you like the name then by all means join the club. I really appreciate your forthright and honest review. I am totally overwrought with ambivalence regarding the Valkyrie.

[@richb2229]

224 valkyrie is for moderately long (550 to 880 meters) range target shooters and snipers. 300 Blackout is for heavy subsonic loads in a suppressed rifle at close to moderate ranges. Outside of those narrow uses they offer nothing over other similar cartridges.

[@GunBlue490]

When I have a need for a 22 caliber AR-15 for target shooting at 880 meters or a silent AR-15 that shoots bullets of poor ballistic coefficient and low sectional density at low velocity, I'll stop yawning.

[@BigSmartArmed]

@@GunBlue490 That's why for military use Russians went with a 5.45 for 400 meters high velocity and 9X39 for silent shooting out to 400 meters. For 1K+ Russians tried developing a high pressure 6X49 as a possible replacement for 7.62X54r. 6X49 was loaded with a 77gr bullet pushed to 3,700 ft/s from a 28" barrel. Bullet stays supersonic at over 1200 yards. Same problems. Shorter barrels required different twist, different powder, all the while high pressures burned the barrels at three times the rate compared to the standard 7.62X54r. 6X49 was scrapped.

[@USAACbrat]

what do you think of the 7mm Valkyrie, it would be hunting legal anywhere?

[@GunBlue490]

It's one of the hundreds of wildcat rounds out there that claim to be better than any other round ever invented. Each one comes with charts and comparative tables illustrating fabulous performance, which always employ very carefully selected opponents, and I don't even attempt to remain educated about them. While very useful for combat, protection, fun shooting, and competition, I personally consider the AR rifle to be very poorly suited for any hunting. Most states have 5 round maximum capacity hunting laws, which negates that advantage of the rifle. While certain species such as a bunch of pigs may possibly afford additional shots, I have never seen a rabbit or deer stand around for a second shot. Besides, traditional rifles come with a vast array of repeater actions that work just fine, and they carry and shoot a lot more comfortably, are generally lighter for the same given barrel length, and more accurate. What's more, the states that restrict magazine capacity for autoloaders have no such restriction for manually operated repeaters, which is a moot point anyway. Most hunting is a one shot proposition, or perhaps a follow up shot for a wounded animal, which is just as easily accomplished with a single shot rifle. So, all the cartridges that have been invented for the AR rifle are inane attempts to fill the same magazine cavity and bolt face with yet another combination of bullet and powder that greatly limit some aspect of the ballistics to what may be stuffed in the envelope. One doesn't do anything else in life on that basis. We pick a plate to fit our portions; we don't pick little luncheon plates and try to put Thanksgiving dinner on it. Traditional rifles have no such restriction, and traditional reasoning is to shop for a cartridge that best performs the task, and then the rifle that shoots it, rather than the other way around. It's absurd mentality. "Hunting" covers immensely diverse requirements, ranging from close woodland hunting to open farmland, prairie, and mountain hunting, and on game that varies from squirrels and rabbits up to heavy game weighing over 1,500 pounds, in just this continent alone. Each state, often down to the local town, city, and county, controls its own particular seasons, laws, and the licensing thereof regarding the hunting of each species within its borders, which includes any requirements or special restrictions of firearms and ammunition.

[@alaskaimage395]

If you need the distance for hunting then 7mm rem mag and other such cartridges will do the trick.

[@hambone2111]

@@GunBlue490 consider if you will. Many folks may make a purchase of a single rifle in there life time or may purchase with the desire for one with multiple uses. Such as plinking, home defense and possibly hunting. The AR platform is currently the most popular modern sporting rifle. The ability to own one lower and multiple uppers that can be used for different tasks certainly has added to that popularity. Many new gun owners have only had experience with firearms thru military training. For them an AR just feels right. Regardless isn't promoting the tradition of hunting more important then bashing the tool used? To be sure some folks would rather folks only use TRADITIONAL bow and arrow. That doesn't promote hunting very well. Anyway 300 blkout is a capable whitetail chambering when paired with proper bullets and shot placement. Ballasticly it is on par with the 7.62x39 and right on the heals of factory loaded 30-30. Certainly more powerful then magnum handgun chamberings. Should folks stop hunting whitetail with a handgun? If you don't feel the concept fits your needs that's fine. To many it performs just as they need it to.

[@tjwright2580]

300 blackout is still around because the name sounds cool, just my opinion

[@MickeyD2012]

Unless you're shooting pistol calibers, .300BLK is the only round for an AR platform that makes sense to silence.

[@oldstudbuck3583]

Another great presentation. Long range shooting is such a small niche. Even if the average Joe six pack wanted to try long distance shooting he won’t have access to practice at 1200 yards especially east of the Mississippi.

[@highplainsdrifter9631]

Super long range shooting and hunting is for fairly wealthy westerners with deep pockets and access to super long range areas to shoot. It's not a cheap hobby, and the guys who are serious about it make pretty damn good money. It has become somewhat of an Elitist sport.

[@paulsimmons5726]

This new round may be the next big gangbuster in a another year or two... then again, it may be next to the 223WSSM! We'll have to be patient and see. My bet is that it will fade over the next few years since not everyone who owns an AR will feel compelled to drop the cash for an additional upper to shoot more expensive and harder to find ammo. Besides, the 223 Rem can handle 99% of the tasks it's given. Great video as always!

[@abcertweld]

Paul Simmons LMAO that's why they are on backorder everywhere.

[@marcogram1216]

Just like the suckers that are waiting on them. Everywhere.

[@abcertweld]

marcogram Ok well one could say that about a gun which you have purchased.

[@abcertweld]

Paul Simmons the ammo isn't hard to find and Hornady has also came out with ammo for the 224. Like you said though we will have to see. He talks about a lot that has nothing to do with the subject, and he even said he didn't know so why speak on it at all.

[@JAKDRZR]

I’m sorry friend but the 223wssm isn’t junk. We got one in a browning a bolt. It’s a monster on coyotes out to 500 yards. 55gr bullet at 4300fps. Oh and the throats don’t erode bad at all since it’s a chromally steel barrel.

[@openmythirdeye]

The only benefit is the semi auto capability of the .224 with the heavier bullets

[@GunBlue490]

Brian That's pretty much it, in a nutshell.

[@DeeMoback]

Brian yup

[@tobyn7649]

Brian...That is a pretty good benefit, IMO. I have the 20 inch 1:6.5 twist variety and I hand load the 88 ELD bullets. I am very happy I can shoot distance with an AR. I have several tight grouping AR-15's with Wylde barrels, but they will not shoot the 88 grain ELD bullet. I am happy with my Valkyrie... once I got rid of the 1:7 twist barrel. Nice video.

[@DeeMoback]

Toby N 224Valkyrie may have excellent trajectory data.....but....you must realize that it is not an exceptionally hard hitting powerhouse.....there just isn't enough weight to the projectile with which to store energy..... try shooting it with 100% humidity and get back to me on it

[@dexterlecter7289]

Completely agree. To buy an off the shelf AR designed with twist, chamber, etc to shoot the heavies. Personally, I'd rather just build a nice longer barrel AR15 in 223 with a custom twist and shoot 80s. The 224V case is tiny. I've heard people asking about putting it in a bolt gun... Just looking at it, not sure exact capacity, it appears to be half the size or less of a 22-250.

[@vincef5832]

A guy at the range was dumbfounded when his .30 blackout shot about 2 feet low at 200 yards. At the time I never paid any mind to the caliber. If I knew then what I know now I would have said to the guy what the heck did you expect-LOL. I do recall saying from my observation was that it had a similar trajectory to a 30-30. Apparently there a people who do not look into a caliber's performance before making an investment in them-lol

[@GunBlue490]

Actually, the ballistics of the 30-30 far outclass the Blackout with bullets of any comparable weight and sectional density. The 140 grain and 160 grain 30-30 Hornady loads drop only 12.5 inches at 300 yards, with a 200 yard zero, and still retain more energy at 300 than the 44 Magnum has at the muzzle. The Blackout cannot achieve that flatness even with a 110 grain bullet, unsuitable for any practical purpose. The Blackout is a round that was purpose built to fit a 30 caliber bullet into an AR 15 rifle, regardless of the result, while the 30-30 was purpose built to hunt large game. There is no comparison between the two cartridges.

[@markw6265]

@@GunBlue490 Easy to get 2100+ with 150 gold dot out of 16" blackout...Lil gun, 1680, sw blackout, ect without pressure signs. By comparison your 30-30 max load (150gr) is 2400 with a 24" barrel (hodgdon site).....20" is more realistic barrel length for a loss of 100-150 fps. Chop it down to 16" there is zero difference. Won't even get into the inherent accuracy of an AR / Bolt platform vs a Lever action. There's not that much difference between them.....sorry.

[@NoWr2Run]

The 300 blackout is nothing more than a NOVELTY CARTRIDGE, it's just a 300 whisper renamed pretty much.

[@alaskaimage395]

I was under the impression 300blk was an experiment to make a 30 cal shoot from an ar15 platform or more accurately an m16/m4 platform. The idea was it was subsonic and suppressed for specific operations. I might be completely wrong but that's the impression I got.

[@1RobHunter1]

On it's original configuration it was for subsonic work. However today = with supersonic 110gr barnes and hornady 125 SST = it is a deer slayer in the woods.

[@andhanwer]

the full name is 300 aaClown

[@andhanwer]

@@hovingtonkirst672 hold your feels till clownfest

[@andhanwer]

@@hovingtonkirst672 what's your major malfunction?

[@totallyjonesin]

It's new cartridge hype. Next will be the ".264 Apollo"

[@smujohnson]

.20-20 MAGA .385 Gutbuster .450 Slunker

[@me2bfc]

If I had a place to shoot o 500 yards regularly, I'd probably snag a 224 with a 24" barrel. However, I don't, so I'll have to stick with my 1:7 twist AR15 and the 200 to 300 yard ranges I do have access to. I shoot with iron sights, so 200 is pushing it and 300 may well be right out with my eye sight. On the other hand, if I did add a scope and had access, 500 yards is perfectly reasonable for a 5.56, so maybe I still wouldn't need it. Forget it, I'm just going 308 in an AR10 and call it a day.

[@jabirzaeef1208]

Should I stick with 223 55 grain for coyote hunting or is 224 valkyrie worth a shot?

[@GunBlue490]

Your 223 is as good as it gets. The difference between the two is completely indistinguishable inside 600 yards, and only with very long target bullets beyond that.

[@jamessammann9183]

Got both throw the 223 in the trash the 224 lot better I'm every way..and I'm a coyote Hunter taken shot out to 700 yards no problem my ar15 could not do that

[@mr220v]

I'm looking at this cartridge for its lack of drop, not its 1300yard range potential.

[@autumnfragrance7185]

We modern Millennial shooters understand the vast improvements of modern ammunition. Modern cartridges such as the 6.5 Creedmoor, 22 Nosler, 224 Valkyrie, 224 Grendel, 28 Nosler, 338 Norma, and 6.5 PRC make your classic cartridges look like BB guns. My 223 WSSM takes game at twice the range of your antique 22-250. You dinosaurs should stick with black powder!

[@GunBlue490]

All those rounds you listed are commercial renditions of ballistic accomplishments over 80 years old, performed by talented dinosaurs. The Creedmoor is almost as powerful as the 6.5 Swede, invented in the 1800s. Now, I recommend that you go do your homework so you can learn to read about such things, especially about such rounds as the 223 WSSM that have been abandoned because they fry barrels... Then they call those rounds dinosaurs.

[@highplainsdrifter9631]

You definitely need to do some homework before bragging about being a modern Millennial shooter. The 6.5x284 Norma has been around for over 50 years and it outclasses the 6.5 Creedmoor, itself only a modern version of the 6.5x55 Swede that isn't hampered by weak factory loads. 338 Norma is comparable to other, older 338 cartridges. I doubt it does anything that a .340 Weatherby Magnum can't do just as well. The concept behind the 22 Nosler and 224 Valkyrie was pioneered way back in the 1970s by a fella with the last name Clark. The 28 Nosler isn't that far ahead of a 7mm STW or a 7mm Weatherby Magnum, and the 7mm Bee is easy to load for. As Gun Blue said, old 'dinosaurs' have been doing this for decades, long before the millennials showed up. Lots of millennials don't even own a good 22 bolt action rifle to hone their skills with, because they dismiss the 22 LR as a kid's gun. I don't see any millennials stepping up to represent the USA in Olympic Biathlon competition. Other nations want to win Gold in Biathlon, whereas the USA seems to not even give a crap.

[@DS-gd1xw]

I like the 300blackout very much

[@mealston1725]

the negative viewer must be a blackout fan....this generation of shooting sports will never understand- there's nothing new under the sun.

[@abcertweld]

MEAlstonIII well in that case there must not be a 6.5 Creedmoor since there is nothing ever new. LMFAO

[@kickinitoutdoors5782]

All my 7.62x39 riffles will out do 300 Blk out all day long.

[@marcogram1216]

It isn't new. 6.5 Swedish in a short action case. Nothing new so far.

[@1RobHunter1]

@@kickinitoutdoors5782 What by 100fps or equivalent of 25 yds ? You really do drink the Kool Aid don't you? 7.62x39 is AK vs the American AK 300blkout = much more accurate.

[@mattipps]

@@kickinitoutdoors5782 except reloading that 7.62x39...or subsonic rounds. Or getting better than 2 moa out of your AK. :/

[@Mike-xi4zt]

28:55 you are absolutely correct that you can't destabilize lightweight bullets with too much twist. One of the few people who do not believe that stupid mythology. There are no physics equations that say the faster you spend something the less stable it becomes it is the exact opposite the more you spend something the more stable it becomes. The Only Exception is if the centrifical force, like you said, cause the bullet to deform or come apart.

[@GunBlue490]

I recommend my video on rifling twist, where I discuss that and more.

[@DeeMoback]

give me a .222, a .260, a 30-06 , and a .375HH and I can kill anything anywhere ☺......and they been around a loooooong time

[@DeeMoback]

or just a .222 and a 30-06 ☺

[@phillycheesetake]

.257, .270, and that's it for me.

[@DMHal01]

Jay Thomas Reset - cool bro, different strokes for different folks. Enjoy

[@robertgregg979]

I recently subscribed to your channel and this will probably be a dumb question, but are you saying just clean your gun and action and not to lubricate afterwards? I would appreciate sir if you could provide me a simple answer thank you.

[@GunBlue490]

Robert Gregg I don't give unqualified answers to complex issues because all situations, firearms, weather conditions, field conditions, and their uses differ distinctly. I never suggested that all firearms should not be lubricated, because that is incorrect. I never suggested that all firearms should be lubricated, because that is equally incorrect. I do not at all suggest that a particular pat answer is the golden rule because that would be incorrect, as simplistic answers do not apply to guns, as is most commonly suggested. I give very detailed explanations that I devoted to videos on this specific topic, that are far more comprehensive than I can give in what you require for a simple yes/no answer, which I do suggest that you take advantage of, and I know you will find your answers, which I do suggest is apart from the conventional norm these days. I do appreciate your subscription.

[@rickvetfrommissouri7950]

Look at Hornady's ballistic software. I built a valkyrie with a 22 inch 1 in7 twist barrel. I've shot both factory loads from hornady and federal. there are twenty loads from 2600fps and above. With the 88gr eld match loads, my gun will shoot 4 rounds in a dime all day. and at that speed, is very easy on barrel life. Our local range reaches one kilometer, thats 1100yds and its still doin 1400fps. The only way I can beat that in 22 cal is to build a bolt gun in 22 creedmore. That's next.

[@rippertrain]

I guess ill have to buy them binoculars plus a 224 valk. Lololol

[@DeeMoback]

It's hype ..... only a very narrow reasoning behind this..... marketing

[@philippefrater2000]

But efficient and long range... Regards from France!

[@DeeMoback]

Philippe FRATER maybe so......may as well have an old .260, .270, 30-06....... they been kulling longrange for many years

[@DeeMoback]

keith mcdowell lol.....well that is true.....but at extreme range there really is no reason for the AR15.....you certainly will not develop accuracy utilizing rapid fire.... longrange preference will be a bolt action with quality barrel

[@sammiches2555]

Jay Thomas Reset think if you could have it all in one platform. That's the point so you don't need a bolt section with harder recoil.

[@DeeMoback]

@@sammiches2555 yes, it would be great to have everything in one

[@CutandShoot5x5]

Excellent information

[@marshallhicks7595]

I have a 224 valkyrie and it's a great gun it really is I don't think it's the best bullet ever made but it's a good round

[@GunBlue490]

If you are happy, that's the important thing.

[@marshallhicks7595]

@@GunBlue490 I use it for target shooting i may take it hog hunting but for everything else I'll stick to my 270 and 308

[@draganbalzic4493]

I used to live on Valhallavägen in Stockholm, Sweden.