The only drawback from the AR platform is the 5.56 cartridge. Some folks want a little more punch. There have been some cartridges that have come down the pike as an alternative, but the only one that stands out is the .300 AAC Blackout. Posted on 04/12/2018 5:13:12 AM PDT by w1n1
The only drawback from the AR platform is the 5.56 cartridge. Some folks want a little more punch. There have been some cartridges that have come down the pike as an alternative, but the only one that stands out is the .300 AAC Blackout.
One of the ways to test out this debate is to do a terminal ballistic testing.
Terminal ballistics of a round are the qualities it has when it hits the target. The sectional density, the relationship of its mass and its weight, its ability to penetrate rather than fragment, and the wound channel it creates due to its bore size are all the study of terminal ballistics. (tissue damage)
It’s important to note that while energy numbers can give you an idea of power around is, it's only a single data point.
The stouter bullets, with more mass of a larger caliber seems to be the more effective round.
To the untrained observer the 300 BLK seems to have the edge in terminal ballistics.
So which is better?
Target shooting, training, or plinking is just plain fun.
-It can get expensive when shooting so many rounds, so this round goes to the 5.56.
-The 300 BLK’s lethality and stopping powers isn’t needed when all you’re doing is punching targets that don’t fight back.
If you're pressed with the $ issue, stick with the 5.56.
Home Defense
For home defense, you should be thinking heavy hitters, walk softly and carry a stick chambered in 300 BLK.
-Having a suppressor with subsonic ammo in a home defense situation is ideal for your hearing.
-The .300 BLK is still great when you either can’t or care not to have NFA firearms.
-If you find yourself in a state like California defending against zombies, with a tight magazine ban and zero NFA goodies, get the bigger bullet.
Hunting With modern bullet designs the gaps between the killing power of calibers is shrinking.
-If you’re into small game, go with the 5.56. The wide range of factory loading for predator hunting edges out the 300 BLK.
-If you plan on hunting medium or large game such as deer, hogs, or smaller bears, the 300 BLK is far superior. Read the rest and see the video debate on 300 blackout vs 556 here.
Apples and oranges.
I’ve really wanted to get an AR in 300 blk, just have not gotten around to it. I know others that have AR’s chambered in 300...I agree one only need to see the rounds side by side to know which is better for defense and big game.
As a result of my recent boating trip, I find myself in the market for a new TEOTWAWKI, or SHTF rifle. Thinking a .308, 6.5 Grendle, or 300 BLK. Problem is, one is more likely to come across .223 ammo in the field, so that’s a factor. Then there is the reasonable doubt of surviving until one runs out of ammo and needs to loot some. So, is it another poodle shooter, or do I step up?
Seeing as how 5.56 is now cheap and readily available at just about any Wal-Mart, I’ll go with it.
If you really want power get a 50 BMG upper for your AR lower
I don’t use my AR for neither hunting nor self defense, so .223/5.56 is fine for me.
And yes, I own both BLK and 5.56. Have hunted with both, super and suppressed. They each have pros and cons.
Gun writers are fullashit.
300 BLK is about like a 30/30. <200 yard weapon, and a trajectory like a rainbow. I’m certain some will pipe up about shooting at 500yds+ and taking out the mosquitos eye and other such BS.
I have one and it is fun to shoot, but just not a medium range weapon. If I’m shooting .30 cal bullets, why not the .308?
Why not go with both?
All you need is a different upper and bolt carrier assembly, I believe.
Also, I eschew the meme that after The Fall we will be walking around looting dead bodies of their stuff. I’d like to think this will be true, but I gotta be reasonable.
“-The .300 BLK is still great when you either can’t or care not to have NFA firearms.
-If you find yourself in a state like California defending against zombies, with a tight magazine ban and zero NFA goodies, get the bigger bullet.”
I’ve often wondered... the 300 still stacks like the 5.56, but what about the .458 Socom ? It turns a 30 round mag into a 10 round mag.
If you own one of these uppers will the state consider your 30 round standard capacity mags 10 round mags ?
well my hunting rifle is a 30-06...which is really why I’ve not gotten in a big hurry to get an AR in 300 blk. I don’t think I’ll ever move away from that round for hunting...it’s just perfect for me and in a variety of situations.
Probably not the place for this, but I do have a question. As a simple man who only shoots a 9mm, can someone explain calibers and ballistics? Like what’s a 357 to a 38 to a .40 to a 45 to a 50 and so on? Size of bullet, how many grains, things like that? I shot a Desert Eagle 50 once, but then I see things like a BMG 50?
An explanation would be greatly appreciated. Pictures even better.
Here ya go ;)BOLT ACTION 50 BMG COLT AR15 CONVERSION KIT
223 is not legal for hunt big game in some states but I would not use anything less than 308 anyway. 3006 is much better and the 375 H&H is a kick.
I’m is what you mean about boating accidents. Same thing happened to me a few months ago. Now I’m worried if my town passes Deerfield ordinance, will I have to pay 1000$ a day fine?
Thread winner...
Only difference is the barrel. Same upper receiver, magazine, and BCG.
“why not the .308?”
Good question.
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