[Redleg Duke]

I was going to submit 300 Blackout as well. I roll my own and it has ballistics better than my second choice, 30-30.

When the SHTF, this rifle has to be a meat-getter as well as for shooting “Cans”. For that reason, the .223 is off the table for me.

[PreciousLiberty]

“When the SHTF, this rifle has to be a meat-getter as well as for shooting “Cans”. For that reason, the .223 is off the table for me.”

The 5.56/.223 will easily kill deer/pigs, and in a pinch would do fine on elk/moose/bear as well - especially given 30 round mags and/or good shot placement.

The key is using the right bullet. The mono Barnes TTSX bullets retain around 100% weight and penetrate plenty deep while expanding reliably. For the 5.56 the 55 grain variety might be about optimum for hunting.

There are lots more good .224 bullets out there for hunting as well. For instance read the reviews for the 64 grain Sierra Gameking here:

http://www.midwayusa.com/product/199027/sierra-gameking-bullets-22-caliber-224-diameter-65-grain-spitzer-boat-tail-box-of-100#reviewHead

That’s a nice inexpensive bullet that shoots accurately in many a gun...

[PreciousLiberty]

Thought you might appreciate a pic of a pig the Sierra 65g bullet from an AR took down (from the Midway site) :)