I would like to get your opinion of the current “intermediate” AR calibers on the market (e.g. 6.8, 300 BLK) as compared to modern 5.56/.223 loads available today. Do you feel there are any which offer significant advantages (overall or in specific applications) in terms of terminal performance, noise signature, range, etc.?
If so, is the performance gap large enough in any of these areas to justify its use over a 5.56?
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My opinion is that we need both 5.56 and 7.62. When roles change you need the ability to change too, and those two calibers will do pretty much anything.
Modern 5.56 bullets like the Triple Shock and Blk Hills provide adequate performance for the intended role when used with a proper zero; so, no I don’t think the other calibers are justified.
The ideal world is that we have a 5.56 gun and a 7.62 gun that feel and operate the same and can pick up the one that is needed at the time.