Top 10 Rifle Defensive Ammos and my thoughts

It's time to look at the top 10 defensive rifle ammos I've found. This is based on the 5.56/.223 AR but the bullet design ie. vmax,sp, gold dot in things like .308, 6ARC can be substituted with similar results in my testing. This is the result of me being a nerd over the last 10 or so years mixing simtest, and ordinance gel and seeking data for my own personal use. I will be doing gel test on video moving forward, this is my personal data and I keep good notes. #everydaycarry #minuteman #edcgear #firstresponders #rangegear #lawenforcement #selfdefense #homedefense #ar15 #defensivetactics

[@ShiftyKen08]

I learn so much watching your videos that they make me feel bad. I realize how much I don't know and how much I really need to step up my game. Great info, Brother, keep it coming!

[@unclefreedom213]

The biggest thing for me still is knowing I don't know stuff and then going after the knowledge

[@Tactical_Arborist_1776]

​@@unclefreedom213Awesome video and great info! Was that first round the Critical Duty or Critical Defense? U called it both in the video. Not even sure if both are available for the .223 like is available for the handgun rounds. I love the Critical Defense for my 9mm

[@blackticalmayhem8461]

​@@Tactical_Arborist_1776 it's CRITICAL DEFENSE. 55gr or 73gr .223REM.

[@jeremiahhook3001]

Never feel bad for not having information. We all don’t know before we are taught/find out for ourselves and understanding it better thru research and experience.

[@CoachKalu]

Well spoken friend.

[@normanpotts3169]

When I was a fed (1990s-early 2000s), the FBI tested 5.56 for indoor use. They found that 64gr SP was best overall.

[@loganshotrod4x464]

Video suggestion: Selecting the right bullet by weight for your specific rifle twist ratio. Your channel is the best I’ve ever seen, major thanks & much respect!

[@TerminalM193]

If you're using the 3 major barrel twist offerings, "9,8,7" then you'll see hardly, if ANY difference in accuracy using 55-77g ammunition all the way out to 500 yards. There's a few great videos here on KZbin that demonstrates this very thing with great results. What it really comes down to is both the barrel material / specific treatment and / or coating AND how the barrel is actually made. Even barrel contour will play a major roll in accuracy. Having proper headspace and a TRUE free float barrel design will come into play WAYYYYYY before barrel twist will.

[@2amichaelj]

I like to shoot a bunch so I can really afford the premium $1+ a round ammo. Ammo right now is relatively inexpensive and available. I've just been stocking up on 55 grain VMAX and 77 grain OTM. Those two are so cheap in the AAC varieties at $10.99 a box, it's cheap enough to stock up, train with and keep loaded without breaking the bank too bad. I do keep M855 and M193 too as M855 out of a 20" barrel vibe checks body armor and things behind barriers which I still think is a useful tool in the toolbox. I keep my M855 in my translucent green magazines, my 55 VMAX in clear Lancers mags and 77 OTM in my black magazines so I can pick up a magazine and know exactly what's in them. I have other loads in other color magazines too.

[@texascommtech637]

I'm 70, never met this man, but listen to him often and just take it for granted that he is a True Brother. I wish so much that younger people could have grown up around men like him because if they had, and had listened to him, appreciated and respected him and LEARNED from him, our country and indeed this entire world would be a far, far better, happier and more peaceful place. God bless you, sir; I share your values and concerns and I pray the rest of your life will be happy, that you will be healthy and that more and more people of all ages will come to know about you, learn from you, think about what you are trying to share with us, and that you will even yet see the seeds you have planted in our lives grow into many, many fruitful trees of peace, knowledge, security, goodwill, understanding and appreciation for this wonderful opportunity and gift our Creator has bestowed upon us all. Thank you; live long and prosper!

[@brianhilligoss]

I’m very surprised to see you not talk about Mead ammo made in Nebraska as well.

[@unclefreedom213]

I've shot very little of thier stuff, I'm all ears if they want to make me a believer they load a lot of hornady projos and seirra

[@3gunshooter60]

Great info. I appreciate your insight. I handload the 55g v-max bullet, and I agree it's a great choice for home defense ammo.

[@adrielburned6924]

I had some really defensive ammo once. They were some sig Sauer hollow v crown. I grabbed the box then put it down and said, " nah, im gonna shoot these fmj's instead", and the hollow points started bitchin' and whinning and saying they werent good enough for me. I felt wounded. 😅

[@unclefreedom213]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 fucking sensitive ass ammo

[@JM-gp2vh]

Don’t let the keyboard warriors get to you. I think you’re doing an awesome job. Your points are succinctly explained. Everyone has preferences, you are just trying to help people out. Kudos to you Sir!

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you I tend not to engage though I will if I need to.

[@ianes123123]

Been stocking up on the Hornady Black 75g HD SBR. I run it in an 11.5 AR and MCX. Its an excellent round for those running SBR 11.5-12.5 platforms. The TAP T2 SBR seems to be the same round, just different packaging and more expensive. Very impressed in my own anecdotal testing done with it. Its a very affordable round (at least in my area) compared to other 5.56 SD rounds. I paid $1.07 a round. Ive seen it for $1.10 online. Highly recommend if it suits your equipment. I also second using the premium solid copper bullets. Black Hills loaded with 50g or 62g TSX, Black Hills 62g Dual Performance (Lehigh Defense Control Chaos bullet), and the Hornady GMX bullets. I've been experimenting with them lately and am very impressed. Of all the hunters I've talked, the majority have said they love the solid copper bullet options. Only down side is that they're usually the most expensive option. But you get what you pay for....whats your life worth?

[@unclefreedom213]

Monolithic bullets are they way for sure as long as you have the velocity. The TAP round and Black 75gr interlock SBR are the same round and it is freaking excellent through all barriers just a bomber round

[@raleighthomas3079]

Outstanding presentation and solid choices! I really appreciate the effort you put in to explain each round! Can’t wait to see some jel block tests some day! Kudos!

[@unclefreedom213]

They are coming and the nogo rifle ammo goes live today

[@MPGunther1]

Excellent learning experience

[@prepping2survive615]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us i really appreciate you sharing this with us for the ones who dont have ability to do all the testing i definitely learned alot from this video great value of information here thanks again

[@unclefreedom213]

You're welcome glad you got something from it.Folks digging the ammo stuff may actually give me a reason to film gel tests.

[@jamesvatter5729]

If the Keyboard Commandos are butthurt, you must be doing something right. Wear it like a badge of honor!

[@hinglemccringleberry6009]

Good stuff man! For all the beginners here for the knowledge, make sure you look up different twist rates in different barrels, and corresponding grain weights to said twist rate. I run a basic 1:9 twist barrel, so I stick with the lighter loads. 55gr Gold Dots suffice for me.

[@onpsxmember]

It's not about the weight but the length of the bullet. One can increase the weight without increasing the length to some degree. Look at the bullet manufacturer sites. Some colour code the range of stability. There are no clear lines. With longer barrels there is more leeway.

[@nameredacted9477]

Excellent information presented in a logical format with rationale for conclusions. Awesome job sir. 👍

[@jimhovater8755]

I quit buying M193 and M855 over a year ago. I only buy bonded SPs and poly-tipped 223 ammunition, now. I try to pair the ammo to a specific AR, depending on barrel length.

[@PewLand]

M855 is still valuable for when the "man" comes knocking in Minecraft

[@john.t645]

If you have a 20" barrel like you're supposed to, it doesn't matter.

[@mikeu9770]

Unk I have watched this video all the way through 3 times now, and once to show a friend who doesn’t do KZbin to share the great information. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge and experience.

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you

[@phoenixblades1]

For the Hornady Tap 53gr GMX, I wasn’t able to get the manufactured ammunition, however I was able to get my hands on about 300 of these 53gr GMX bullets. When I originally purchased them, it was a shot in the dark since these were considered 2nd rate bullets for some cosmetic discoloration, but found some load data from Barnes, so should’ve a great shooter out of both my SBR 11.5 suppressed AR and my 18in SPR setup AR.

[@unclefreedom213]

Yeah I got 500 when Midway had them and the Barnes data has been good in my testing It's a badass projectile

[@phoenixblades1]

@@unclefreedom213 I am really wanting these to workout for me…. In your loads for your rifles, do you use the same powder/load data, or do you try to switch to another due to the burn rate issues on a shorter rifle?

[@machinis]

Man! What a TON of information!!! Makes me rethink of my home defense ammo. Thanks & subscribed.

[@unclefreedom213]

The goal was just to make people think about it in general. Glad it helped

[@cowboyjeff1911]

Great Video amazing wealth of knowledge 🤘🤠🤘

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you

[@workout1520]

I use both the Frontier 55gr Hollow Point Match and the Winchester M855 62gr Green Tip Penetrators out of a 16" Barrel. These two work best for me in my suburban home defense. The Green Tips are for easily shooting through Cars (just in case) but my Mags are filled with the Hollow Point's.

[@chriswalsh9989]

Just found your channel, and absolutely loved your video and knowledge. Was glad to hear someone else mention the federal fusion 62gr sp. I run those in my ar and have been extremely pleased with the accuracy as well. Thanks for the great content and look forward to following you.

[@unclefreedom213]

The fusion round get slept on infeel like.

[@chriswalsh9989]

@@unclefreedom213 i totally agree, i personally have not done ballistic test but i have watched some and the wound channels and cavities that round seems to create are just awesome. On a side note my 30-30 loves those same bullets as well. Thanks for the reply, and i hope to see your channel grow!

[@Michiganbreadboyz_bt8919]

Exactly what I run. It gets slept on due to velocity, because most people don’t understand that the round is made to expand and retain weight at low velocities and is super barrier blind. It’s a killer round for sure

[@roquri]

I am very partial to the 62 grain Barnes TTSX in 223, and 110 grain Barnes TTSX in 300 BLK. Also REALLY like the 300 grain Barnes TTSX in 458 SOCOM....for when you have a bad guy, hiding behind the refrigerator, in your neighbors house.

[@unclefreedom213]

🤣🤣🤣 LOL that is awesome

[@dalewetherspoon6984]

Great to see you got the volume issue resolved. Lots of great info thank for what and how you do it. Straight to the point and detailed.

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you for the kind words

[@dalewetherspoon6984]

@@unclefreedom213 no, thank you for what you do here and as a profession. What you talk about here is in fact what you live and breath daily. I trust what you say more than any other youtuber in this field.

[@Nono-rh4lr]

Hey brother. I know you like premium ammo but what about the AAC Saber black tip 75gr in a 11.5”? I’m seeing good depth but not sure if I’m missing something with all the fragmentation

[@billypike3797]

Been watching this type of content on KZbin for a while now. Started watching you a week or so ago and I have to say this is very valuable content from someone who uses this stuff real world. It's a breath of fresh air. Subbed. Thank you

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you

[@chrisrayburn]

U aint no fudd my man. U r 1 of the most honest guntuber on the platform. U know ur rnds . And u got plenty of non fudd pew pews. So ya who ever said that can get lost in the wilderness for a while.

[@demographicrenaissance6613]

I live in SW Florida and a VAST majority of the houses, not apartments, but houses, made since the early-mid 60's are cinderblock. Ours is, as is every house or duplex I've ever lived in. I have no intent on pushing the issue, but our home, as well as our neighbors (which are at least 20'-30' away), are also cinderblock. I do have slight concerns about strays and over penetration, but a bit less than people packed I to urban areas or people with wooden houses.

[@Michiganbreadboyz_bt8919]

I run the federal fusion 62gr which is the same as the gold dot from what I’ve seen.

[@SkippyTarbuckle]

Yeah man, I've learned in just 2 of your videos, that I don't know shit. I definitely appreciate the information sir. Subbed.

[@unclefreedom213]

I still feel like that sometimes, some of the guys I run with make me look like a noob on some things. I'm always game to learn more if you're not learning you're dying

[@randallbollinger1449]

One isn’t a true 2A advocate if one puts restrictions on who can exercise their 2A Right

[@drivestrength5394]

Been digging the content since I started following a little over a week ago. Good stuff brotha! Had a feeling I'd like it when I saw you rocking some Outdoor Research! The finest technical apparel manufacturer hahaha!!! Loved the Eberlestock range bag - grabbed that a few years ago and still get Bravo Zulus on that at the range to this day!

[@unclefreedom213]

OR is the shit. I was issued the first run of the modular glove system back in 04 fell in love with the brand been repping ever since. Thanks

[@Grooove_e]

I personally keep my .308 mags loaded with Hornady Critical Defense 150gr. It has some wild ballistics in 10% gel i believe there is a KZbin video out there of a guy testing it. Edit: not all the mags have those, the other half have some FMJ for if and when SHTF

[@unclefreedom213]

Yeah ibshot the .308 flat damn nasty

[@marktelep5856]

You grab whatever you can to defend yourself!!!!!!!!!

[@snoshorts]

Wish the good defensive rounds were affordable to us "monitarily challenged" citizens.

[@unclefreedom213]

There are cheaper options. The fiocchi 50gr vmax loading 50 rounds for like 30 bucks same for soft points. Hornady Frontier 75gr BTHP for about 14 per 20 also check Palmetto State armory look at the AAC offerings even the 77gr otm is like 13 per 20

[@1969darr]

Speer 70gr semi-spitzer is the gold standard today as well as 30 yrs ago for home defense and not many people use it. I used to use them out of a 20" Colt H-Bar AR for deer hunting. Totally devastating round with no pass through even as close as 40yds. They never ran DRT

[@Tactical_Arborist_1776]

Awesome video and great info! Was that first round the Critical Duty or Critical Defense? U called it both in the video. Not even sure if both are available for the .223 like is available for the handgun rounds. I love the Critical Defense for my 9mm

[@unclefreedom213]

Critical defense and it's solid, they make a critical duty for rifle as well but its called TAP Patrol

[@dznutsification]

@@unclefreedom213would you recommend that hornady black tip sbr round for a 7.5” battle in 5.56??

[@itsamk18-ish]

I ordered some 62 gr soft point projectiles and 55gr frangible last month. I’ve loaded a little bit to test out i just gotta find the time. A channel here on YT thekalkara131 just did a good video comparing vmax vs Golddots. The vmax lost about every test especially those that had a barrier.

[@unclefreedom213]

That makes sense Vmax isn't designed to work on barriers at all. Gold Dot are designed to be barrier blind

[@itsamk18-ish]

@@unclefreedom213 yeah, i used to have my home defense gun set up with vmax because i was worried about over penetration. I found some m855a1 i replaced that with but after i get my load worked up in these soft points I’ll probably switch to those. Another point thekalkara guy made is according to data pulled from police shootings is only about 30% of rounds fired hit the suspect. So the 70% of rounds not hitting the target is a much bigger concern than over penetration. My philosophy changed from worrying about over penetration to focusing on having a plan and training more.

[@michaellewis5624]

I like 60gr VMAX for home defense, IMI 77gr razor core for everything else.

[@chuychubasquino2957]

Binging on this shit... luvin' it. I think I might be close to you in the midwest, I'm over a state over in the wild, wild west.

[@762N8O]

Quite surprised to see you recommending varmint loads. Not very deep penetration but quite explosive on impact. I was contemplating loading up red tipped hornady zombie rounds

[@unclefreedom213]

ita the most common round for LE really really effective in an urban setting. If I thought I was going to encounter barriers i might select something else. In a person to person gunfight its hard to beat

[@josephbalon2777]

Thanks for supporting the Second Amendment, great commentary, and knowledge could you do a 300 black out show like this; with pistol barrel less than 10.5" barrel (non-compensated)

[@unclefreedom213]

I've shot a fair amount of 300 blackout of a 9 inch I've definitely got my picks. I can make that work

[@JonesActual]

Love your videos, man keep up the good work

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you

[@EverythingFilmmaking]

Can you do one of these for 300 blackout rounds? Both for suppressing and super sonic for barrels 7 inch to 9 inch. Defensive rounds of course.

[@alexthomas8749]

Just discovered you last night after the algorithm showed me your 10 no go pistol ammo. Is there anyone doing a commercial loading of the frangible barnes bullet you talk about here and in your AR556 video?

[@unclefreedom213]

The Barnes MPG I believe Black Hill Ammo has done it in the past. I bought 2000 of the projectiles a few years back dis a ton of load work up, accuracy testing, and gel testing. Found a loading I loved and built 1000 rounds of it

[@unclefreedom213]

I will see if I can find more factory loadings of it and will post them on IG @UncleFreedom213 the bullet is the Barnes MPG ( multi purpose green round) 55grains

[@rockin870]

Big fan of the TBBC/FBIT3. It does bad things to gel. I'm loading under a healthy dose of Ramshot TAC. If I remember correctly, I think i was getting 2900fps from the 20"with no pressure signs. I think it opens as low as 1800fps. Got about 3500 projectiles to load for a steal.

[@jeremywilson8334]

Hello Uncle Freedom, I'm a new subscriber and really like your videos. I've only watched a handful of them so i have some binge watching to do. I really liked your 'prepping uncomfortable truths vidoes'. You have a great way of thinking outside the box, things that are fairly common sense but we don't think about.

[@unclefreedom213]

Thanks and welcome

[@CarlPapa88]

Not the dog & the neighbor!! I'll subscribe for the humor too. (Further into the vid) And a cop. 👍

[@rodneymoore7270]

I was hoping you would cover OTHER calibers that the ar 15 set up for 6.5 grendel ect

[@unclefreedom213]

Yeah you were not the only one that has asked for that so we will have dedicated videos coming up for the following .308, 6ARC, 300Blk, 6.5 creedmor, 6.5 Grendel, 22ARC, and a few more like 350 legend etc

[@galbreathtodd]

Love what you are sharing. I hear the augments against the 55gr vmax does not do 18 inches in gel, does that really matter? What does the vmax do if you miss your target?

[@unclefreedom213]

if it hits a wall or something it'll come apart but in flesh it's nasty typically penetrate 8 to 10 inches dumping 1200ish pounds of energy turning everything into jello. There's a reason LE carries a Varmint style round for urban stuff

[@XrayMike17plus1]

Picked up some black 75 gr interlock a few months ago. Pricy but outstanding.

[@unclefreedom213]

They are fucking stellar rounds

[@Hook-N-Ladder]

With your testing, how do those little 40-50gr loads do coming out of a 1/7? I've got some AAC stuff that's made by Hornady, 75gr BTHP Match (the equivalent of their Frontier line) and have considered the 55gr CX since I keep 55gr M193 from IWI in stock for range days, but keep hearing conflicting information about stabilization and such, some saying the 55's come apart when spinning that fast, others saying you just need a longer 70+ grain bullet, then others saying a solid copper projectile won't come apart and 55gr doesn't keyhole until longer distances. Having just gotten back into my shooting hobby after a 5 year break and trying to get a handle on modern ammunition for the AR platform has proven interesting.

[@c-jam6392]

Great stuff as always, I use the Speer gold dots but I can never seem to find them in 556, I’ve only ever seen 223…like not even out of stock 556 ones.

[@unclefreedom213]

I wonder if they dumped them in favor of focusing on 223 being able to shoot in anything hell the 223 loading is still hot

[@JohnLee-jk5ew]

Also curious why they dropped the 64gr version as well especially when the 64gr bonded nosler got a bunch of LE contracts

[@wyteice89]

they call you a fudd, because of things you say like "every one who can LEGALLY own a firearm should". there should be no laws disallowing someone from owning a gun. if they let you out of jail/prison that means you did your time, and paid the price. THE END. not a life time of being treated sub human.

[@Aries69-959]

Something to keep in mind that I didn't hear is the "preferences " of your particular rifle. A lot of these rounds will have different impact points based on what your rifle likes. So it's good to do some testing to make sure that all of the rounds you choose will work together without needing to worry about sight/scope adjustments. Otherwise it's great advice

[@unclefreedom213]

Good points except this was done with almost no preferences in accuracy which would impact the list. I was speaking from a velocity standpoint which is what would impact the bullet performance. There may be some truth to a rifle not liking to cycle the ammo but anything that fails to cycle would eliminate it and I do notated things that have cycle issues like remington being hyper inconsistent. I agree you should test the rounds in your gun I don't expect a round like the 75gr interlock sbr to group at 100 yards but I do expect it to work through all barriers out of a SBR with excellent terminal performance

[@Aries69-959]

@unclefreedom213 completely understand. My points were directed more toward someone that may make purchases based on these recommendations but may not necessarily know that all of these rounds may not group together in their rifle/rifles. Just adding to the conversation. 2 or 3 of these may work great together. Giving someone options for slightly different situations without worrying about having to make adjustments

[@AJohnSmith]

Thank you, sir.

[@trentroberts7608]

Definitely recorded this a few days ago. Cause it's 80s and some what humid now lol. Great video tho thanks. 👌 also you earned a new subscriber for this video.

[@unclefreedom213]

yes one week ago just didn't want to dump 4 ammo videos at once. But give it a couple days it'll be snowing LOL

[@trentroberts7608]

@@unclefreedom213 gotta love nebraska weather. I really do appreciate the videos on the ammunition.

[@terrypadgett4258]

Just found your channel out standing thanks for what your doing kerp it up.

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you

[@darbovision2672]

Just found your channel. Thanks for the good info on bullet choices. I have been loading my own ammo for several years but never saw good info on bullet choice for defensive use. Ultimately I have been loading Hornady 60gr V-Max and Sierra 65gr. SBT for my defensive cartridges. I did just order some Speer 62gr. Gold Dot bullets. I'll have to watch your video again, a lot of info in there, to see if any of my choices are worthy!

[@unclefreedom213]

Hey glad you enjoyed it I also do some benchtop ballistics videos so check those out too. Any questions don't hesitate to reach out to me @UncleFreedom213 on IG

[@unclefreedom213]

I really like that 65gr SPBT and you can really push those gold dots hot as hell

[@geebanger68]

Great vid. You should do a shotgun defensive ammo top 10

[@unclefreedom213]

I can do that. I like that idea

[@geebanger68]

Looking forward to it

[@AlitaGunm99]

If your bear gel isn't made from real bears, it's just sparkling clear ballistic gelatin.

[@joshuaputman8307]

New subscriber here. Good stuff. I was wondering if you were going to mention heavy match bullets.

[@unclefreedom213]

They hit like a freight train

[@Huckleberry2A]

Do you have a top 10 and please don’t do defensive list for 300 blackout? Would love to hear your testing knowledge and results for that particular chambering. Love the channel. Keep up the great work. Team America!

[@unclefreedom213]

My 300 blackout is more akin to top 5 in the category. 300 Blackout is even more pick the ammo for your situation than 5.56. I love the round and there is some crazy good stuff like tghe Sub-x from Hornady and the 100 ttsx from barnes. i will get it all together and put it out

[@jcc6356]

Amazing information!!!! Thank you!!!!!

[@unclefreedom213]

Thanks

[@TerminalM193]

For anything 100 yards and in I've been more than satisfied with factory loaded Speer Gold Dot 223 in 62g & 75g offerings. Both my LWRCs and my SOLGW shoot around 1.5moa and the wounding I've seen on anything from coyotes to larger feral hogs and white tail have been phenomenal. MUCH better than what I've personally seen with 75/77g otm from black hills & imi and depending on barrel length better than M193 and m855.... When it comes to stacking ammunition for whatever end of the world scenario we like to imagine I've primarily stuck with Federals XM193. Before I switched to the XM193 I was primarily stacking M193 from imi but over the last year and a half the quality of M193 from imi has absolutely crapped the bed. Their last 4 lots have been all over the place from neutered velocity, horrible accuracy & their latest lot being over pressurized, giving almost 4moa which is unacceptable. Over the past year the XM193 has shown the most consistent velocity & right at 2moa accuracy over 3 lots which is phenomenal for an M193 cartridge. Both my 18" & 16" LWRC absolutely love the stuff. P.S. - Finding the Speer Gold Dot loaded to 5.56 pressures have pretty much moved to the "mystic" or "myth" category as far as finding a TRUSTWORTHY company that's loading to 5.56 pressures. Recently I found some pretty decent deals on the 75g bullet and have started handloading them to 5.56 pressures but I still have a TON of testing to do as far as best powder mixture and seating depth to give the highest velocity while still staying safe and accurate. I wish I could find some 62g gd bullets to play around with.

[@CB-zx3jn]

Another great vid! I've been looking at AAC 5.56 75g "Sabre Black Blade" poly-tipped ammo, with hopes that it will be decent for HD. It is half the price of the "Big Name" ammo brands, and seems to be pretty popular, but I have yet to test it, as I am waiting for my first delivery. The only complaint I feel I am going to have with that ammo is that the loading seems to be kind of weak right out of the box (2700 fps out of an undisclosed-length test barrel). Will likely see quite a reduction in velocity out of my standard 16" toy, and even more reduction from my AR pistol. But to your suggestion of one ammo for SBR (the Hornady Black). Do you think this would make for a good HD round using a 7.5" AR pistol? Keep up the good work!

[@InfinitumDiver]

I'm planning on starting to handload soon and decided I wanted to work up a 5.56 defensive/SHTF round as my first load. I do not have any equipment yet because I like to research and plan it out first before buying. I was thinking of using the Barnes TSX 62gr bullet to do a MK318 Mod 1 clone as that seem to fit the bill. Do you have any tips / recommendations based on that?

[@unclefreedom213]

so your best bet for a Mk318 clone is something similar to the solid base 64gr made by winchester but to be honest thw tsx is an amazing round as long as overpenetration isn't a concern solid copper rounds are hard to beat

[@InfinitumDiver]

@@unclefreedom213 Ok, I will look into that Winchester 64gr as well. Thank you! Your videos have been VERY helpful when exploring different bullet options and insights on them.

[@JohnLee-jk5ew]

Gold dot and nosler have great 64gr rds but I think the GDs aren’t being made anymore.

[@jjtru21]

Great info man

[@KOprops]

if you have a chance, check out the G9 54gr Barrier Bind solid copper 5.56. I would like to hear your opinion on it.

[@PhoenixBlaze1776]

Food for the algorithm

[@brandonholliday7927]

Who makes that woobie hoody? Thanks for the content!

[@unclefreedom213]

Zero Foxtrot

[@conro7003]

Yes! Been waiting on this one!

[@unclefreedom213]

Tried to get it up earlier my NO GO will be coming up too. I'm on shift all night

[@charlesmullins3238]

I need to test more .223/5.56 stuff as I’ve been on .308 and now 6.5prc 3yrs and 1yr loadin consistently and testing for accuracy,speeds, and I just bust jugs and see difference in expansion and penetration…I have the 95gr v max goin 3600fps from 24” carbon waypoint and brother you wanna talk about violent…my 110 .308s run 3500..

[@unclefreedom213]

All Varmint rounds are ultra violent even the 40gr Varmageddon it'll damn near split the block. Varmint rounds are the king of the heap when there is any risk of overpenetration

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

My old All steel commander double stack 1911's with 22TCM, 40grain, going 2100FPS would love to argue with those folks griping at the beginning :)

[@unclefreedom213]

That's a fun round to mess with

[@tbjtbj4786]

That vmax 50gr is whats in my old colt xm177 clone in 40rd pmags

[@bradsnyder6357]

For me it’s Hornady 55 gr Vmax or soft point for the house, any soft point in 60-64 gr for outside based on my experience shooting deer and hogs. 223 is great for defensive use with good loads

[@abrahamrios6503]

Thank you

[@unclefreedom213]

You're welcome

[@Gator69420]

IMI for FMJ Federal fusion bonded soft point Barnes TSX AAC black tip Hornady V-Max

[@kevmoful]

I don’t have any experience dealing with 2 legged critters but the 64gr Nosler bonded rounds have served me well on white tails . Exit hole is always about 50% bigger than entry . All 3 I’ve hit with it didn’t go far.

[@truckert9729]

You mentioned the frangible for self defense. I wonder how the mk311 brown tip would fare. Its a 50gr compressed semi frangible. It has a standard jacket with compressed copper internal. I've been reloading these for hitting steel up close and may be ground hogs. Not the most accurate but at SD distances....

[@unclefreedom213]

Should function close to the MPG or Varmint Grenade i woild think. When we talk rifles though it may not be optimal 3000+ fps is gonna ruin your shit no matter what and we're only talking optimized performance and selection for the situation and threat

[@828enigma6]

I've a Remington Model 78 that will group 3/8" at 100 yards using Hornady Tap 62gr ammo. This has to be a flat base bullet as I doubt the 1/12 twist of the rifle would stabilize a BTHP, and it's a pencil barrel. Probably not what you would want for an extended firefight.

[@unclefreedom213]

Osme pencil barrels that have proper stress relief don't string as much. That said I always like medium to heavier barrel profiles. I agree with you on stability but you can get rockstar results with 55gr since you twist is what that was meant for

[@JoseFlores-pm7qg]

Man....At a shop that I frequent, they don't allow people to purchase Hornaday TAP or Hornaday Critical Duty unless you are ex military or a LEO. As a civilian, I feel discriminated against. 🤭...........😆🤣🤣🤣🤣 Naw, but in all seriousness, they should let me by that stuff. Its just been sitting on the shelf since I started going there. I mean, I have to buy my Critical Duty from Academy.🤷‍♂️ Ridiculous! Its the same round.🤦‍♂️

[@unclefreedom213]

That's wild they have it on the shelf and won't sell it lol. I don't agree with that at all

[@PewLand]

This wouldn't happen to be gt distributers would it?

[@JoseFlores-pm7qg]

@@PewLand Yessir. If my SBR can identify as a pistol, then I should be able to identify as someone who is special enough to purchase Critical Duty. Without getting tossed in jail for stole valor or impersonating a police officer. 🤣🤣 They act like my money ain't green.💁‍♂️

[@PewLand]

@@JoseFlores-pm7qg They have contracts with the ammo companies that don't allow them to sell to civs because it's "law enforcement ammo". This is the reason they stopped getting my business because that practice is inherently anti second amendment. I politely told the guy at the register that they lost a customer and walked out. Not that they care at all because they still get that blue label and department money.

[@BafflingBS]

Great info! Also a LEO, for 30 years. My load out consists of an LE6920, and a 11.5” BCM, suppressed. I’ve settled on the solid copper rounds from Barnes and Black Hills. With my preference leaning towards the Black Hills 50gr. TSX. What do you think of the NovX Pentagon 55gr copper hollow point?

[@antoniopalmer7399]

Been wondering about this round myself but there is little to no info on it..

[@KeyboardWarrior101st]

What are your thoughts on the Black Hills 62 gr Dual Performance rounds? I think it's the same projectile as the Lehigh Defense Controlled Chaos bullet but I could be wrong.

[@unclefreedom213]

I've never shot them but I have shot controlled chaos which is badass but it feels more specialized like the mk262. I will look into then if it's the chaos bullet they are awesome and black hills loads everything right

[@Mikey5-O]

@unclefreedom213 great video, thank you. Being a former LEO from the NYPD, I’ve used Gold Dots for almost 20 years, in revolvers as well as 9mm. Just curious on your thoughts for indoor home protection.. Hornady Critical Defense, Hornady Tap or 55gr Gold Dot? Thanks

[@chasetherocknroll5144]

Great content, delivered very well. New Subscription here.

[@unclefreedom213]

Thank you

[@phoenixblades1]

Also, it’s hard to find now, but has anyone had the opportunity to test or get their hands on Nosler Defense 223/556 64gr bonded solid base ammo. They don’t make it for awhile up until recently, but apparently you can get the bullets online from a 3rd party?

[@unclefreedom213]

Sounds like their Partition bullet design

[@phoenixblades1]

@@unclefreedom213 I believe they are similar, but not entirely sure myself

[@SammyTheSidePiece]

I saw a test on the fort Scott tbi in gel blocks and they did not tumble so maybe its different in actual flesh but from what I seen so far they're not worth it.

[@TurkFPS]

I run the ADI 55gr Sierra blitzking as the 1st 5 rds in the mag ( essentially a varmint/ Hornady tap urban 55gr clone in terms of performance) if you hit the bipedal pest your guaranteed no over penetration, and the rest of the mag is PMC 55gr soft point, more of a hunting round tbh but it's what I could actually find in stock at the time I was looking for HD ammo for the AR bought it after seeing the mr.gunsngear video. I want to transition to federal 55gr TRU soft point, any suggestions?

[@unclefreedom213]

At least you thought of the ammo instead of running fmj. The Federal TRU is the nosler V shok bullet which is an excellent performer and is has the low flash powder blend so it won't blind you. Not a bad option at all. If you can find them the fiocchi 50gr vmax loading is stellar and doesn't break the bank and it comes in 50 packs. A good option I you're putting ammo back or loafing a bunch of mags up. Just make sure of feeding in your rifle and where the rounds impact so you have the personal data for your rifle.

[@BuckF0eJiden]

Ive been into reloading for years now, and my go-to defensive load in 5.56 is the Hornady 75 gr HPBT Match projectile over 23.7 grains of IMR 8208 XBR. Moves at nearly 2900 fps in my 20", right at 2700 out of a 16", and you can expect 2400ish out of a 10.5" (12-13.7" is the sweet spot, at around 2500 fps) They may be match projectiles, but even at 24-2500 fps, the performance on target is ridiculous, and good hand loads through a good barrel will easily hold half moa accuracy. I see quarter MOA groups at 100 with my 1-8 10.5" pistol.

[@houseoflamarr3674]

Are the Winchester varmint 223 any good?

[@unclefreedom213]

which bullet? I only ask because they have a ton of loading, one that sticks out that's not great is the 40gr HP the Federal version is boatloads better

[@houseoflamarr3674]

@@unclefreedom213 the 40 grain polymer tip but it doesn’t matter now lol I bought the horn super performance 53 grain varmint red tip

[@warrenog499]

What ammo would you recommend for a 7.5“ 1:7 twist 556 ar? I know ppl hate them but as a reloader I’m sure you would know some loads that would work well, I’m currently running the drt terminal shock 55g 223

[@randyjustin4408]

Replace with 300 blackout if you’re determined to do that short. You simply can’t get enough powder burn regardless of powder and still have sufficient energy. M855a1 uses a faster burn rate but increase case pressure quite a bit. along with Hornady I believe does make an SBR specific that would be better but he takes about in the video, but m855a1 has a lot of issues to start with and in short beats the hell out of your rifle. These are better options but 10.3/10.5 is shortest you can really go for 556 with reasonable expectations

[@joshuahenderson5847]

would you say that 5.7 ammunition could create hydrostatic shock out of a handgun or no? i’ve seen some really high muzzle velocities from 5.7 ammo and wondered what your opinion was

[@ChrisLoew]

Hear me out, train with your duty ammo. Xm193 and black hills 77gr bthp for past 300 yards.

[@ronaldrotondo3615]

Will the Hornady Black do anything to your barrel if shot from a 16 inch?

[@unclefreedom213]

the 75gr sbr, according to Hornady it's very highly NOT recommended can create a bad over pressure, I haven't done it, I do know that that have and it popped primers

[@MeMadeIt]

I don't believe Speer Gold Dots are available in 556, they are 223 only, and also available in 62gr and, at one time, 64gr.

[@unclefreedom213]

correct I didn't realize they weren't around in 5.56 I've never seen any other weight outside of 55 or 75

[@hypoluxia8009]

I've yet to hear you say anything about 45 and stopping power and you need to include more defensive options for 30-06 to be fudd.

[@unclefreedom213]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 MuH StoPPiN PoWer!!!!

[@jhutch1470]

@@unclefreedom213 Because they don't make a 46.

[@chrisgabbert658]

🤷‍♂️ all you can do is hope the round is good for what you’re dealing with .

[@unclefreedom213]

Just do the best you can to pick based on your perceived situation

[@jacobjohnson3634]

great vid. Any chance you could show how they act after once they go through gelatin and into a wall?

[@unclefreedom213]

Typically unless something goes really really wrong they do not exit the gel

[@Tactical_Arborist_1776]

​@@unclefreedom213maybe shoot thru the block sideways with drywall behind it? Kinda simulating a pass thru into a wall?

[@unclefreedom213]

The only problem with that is ballistic gel isn't a 1 to 1 for bipedal threats fir example 12 to 16 inches in gel equates to something that is typically stopped by the t shirt on the back.