5.56 vs .300 Blackout AR

[g8tr]

I'm starting an AR build project, and am trying to decide on the caliber. I already own another AR in 5.56 (which I got from HogSniper) which is my "up close and personal" AR. Planned use is mostly punching holes on paper. Thoughts? I'm torn between building a 20" barrel 5.56 for more distance vs. getting something that will give me more variety and ammo diversity in case of future issues with supply. I don't reload, btw.

Thanks!
g8tr

 

[epps1919]

Get them all!!!

 

[g8tr]

Still trying to figure our how to tell my wife about one!!

 

[HordesOfKailas]

Get them all!!!

This man knows what he's talking about.

Still trying to figure our how to tell my wife about one!!

I got away with it because I told my fiancee the 5.56 one is for my brother.

 

[MacGuns]

The quick answer is yes, get one of each

You can also just get one lower and two uppers (20" 5.56 and a 300 blk) and switch as your needs change.

 

[Speed3]

300blk is really useful suppressed, if you plan to go that route I would buy the 300. I own both though so I'm not much help lol

 

[iH8DemLibz]

Get the .223

MUCH cheaper to use.

Or get a divorce and build both.

 

[ajviera]

I'm starting an AR build project, and am trying to decide on the caliber. I already own another AR in 5.56 (which I got from HogSniper) which is my "up close and personal" AR. Planned use is mostly punching holes on paper. Thoughts? I'm torn between building a 20" barrel 5.56 for more distance vs. getting something that will give me more variety and ammo diversity in case of future issues with supply. I don't reload, btw.

Thanks!
g8tr

If your plan is to shoot @ distance I would recommend getting a barrel chambered in 223 Wylde, it's more accurate than 5.56 chamber but is not limited to just the 223 cartridge. Can shoot both 5.56 & 223. Rifle in picture has a 20" Ballistic Advantage barrel chambered in 223 Wylde shoots sub MOA with no problems with decent ammo..

 

[CSHS]

I have both and like them both. They're different guns. The 300 offers a subsonic/suppressed potential that I hope to try someday. It's fun to shoot. I do a little deer hunting with 125g bullets. It's basically a 30-30. Past 200 yds it drops off too much. It did move me into reloading, which I enjoy, because of the ammo costs.

 

[DaemonAssassin]

I run my 300BLK as a deer rifle and a subsonic close in groundhog killer.

I'll use my precision AR for medium range varmint control.

You get the idea. Just get both and do it. You'll be happy you did it one day.

 

[GUNSnROTORS]

I run my 300BLK as a deer rifle and a subsonic close in groundhog killer.

I'll use my precision AR for medium range varmint control.

You get the idea. Just get both and do it. You'll be happy you did it one day.

Like the way DA thinks.

BTW, I thought we weren't allowed to say "run" anymore.

OP, have several ARs based on .223 parent case. In addition to 300 Blackout, the 6x45 (6mm-223) is a versatile round. It's a wildcat, made by simply necking up .223/5.56.

 

[Biggfoot44]

Unless specifically planning to run supressed, consider a 6.5 or 6.8 .

 

[outrider58]

Build the 5.56 20". If you're planning on punching a lot of paper, 5.56/.223 is the way to go. Save the 300blk for a pistol/SBR build. My 2¢

 

[ironpony]

Like someone else mentioned, and this is speculation but building an AR is divided into two parts (with those calibers) so maybe think of it as building another upper since the lower is about the same. So my answer would be the 223 Wylde now and 300 will soon follow.
Also think about grabbing an extra lower vs any other build given the political situation. My bet is that you will take up reloading eventually as well. Have fun.

 

[Mdeng]

Personally I would set up a long range 223 Wylde rifle. This will give you more versatility. If you want a 300 BLK just get a second upper for the AR you already have.

In a SHTF senario 223/5.56 will be available in greater quantities then others.

Oh and if you have to get approval from your wife you are doing it wrong. My wife and I work together for a common goal. We know what needs to be paid for, saved and what is disposable.

 

[g8tr]

Thank you all for the great feedback. I've decided to stick to the 5.56 for now, and I do like the idea of a second upper - I hadn't thought of that option.

Best,
g8tr

 

[Hollywood Ball]

My suppressed .300BLK AR pistol is my new favorite gun to shoot.

 

[ascorb]

Get the .223

MUCH cheaper to use.

Or get a divorce and build both.

LMFAO

 

[Keystone70]

What gun? I've had those two in the safe for years now!

 

[sailskidrive]

What gun? I've had those two in the safe for years now!

LOL... wait until she decides she wants to "store" something important in that "big safe" and demands the combo.