5.56 or .308

harrygunner · July 21 2012 05:45:12 PM MDT

In the market for an AR type rifle. Torn between an Ar15 in 5.56 or an AR10 in .308. It would be for self defense. I've concluded a carbine suits me better than a shotgun.

I'm waiting for my new place to be finished. It's on acreage in the boonies, near an evergreen forested National Forest. Not sure what kind of neighbors I have Haha, but I'm considering the possibility the "new guy" might have his security tested in this tough economy.

I've read 5.56 platforms are lighter to carry and are effective against people. The .308 attracts me since I like "heavy and fast".

I've picked out some decent platforms to consider, but what are your thoughts on which caliber to go with? Thanks.

sqlbullet · July 21 2012 05:55:08 PM MDT

I am a fan of 308. I opted for a CETME sporter and have been very happy with it so far. I picked up 50mags for it from cheaper than dirt when they were selling the surplus G3 mags for .97 each.

hillbillyhans · July 21 2012 05:58:42 PM MDT

AR10. Hands down. There's a reason some of the infantry divisions have busted out some of the old M14's. .308 is awesome for self-defense, and is a great hunting platform. Not much that caliber can't do.

harrygunner · July 21 2012 06:12:32 PM MDT

I'm leaning toward a .308. I'm not sure what I'd be defending against. I plan on having my California tags off the cars, so long range snipers won't be likely. <- That's a joke.

I imagine I'd be using the carbine for defense within the home and possibly large animals on the grounds near the house. I've read follow-up shots are faster with the 5.56. The .308 might be more versatile since I can have different loads in different magazines.

hillbillyhans · July 21 2012 06:30:08 PM MDT

In the AR platform, I think everything is quick on the follow-up. .308 is a mild cartridge anyway.

Rick1987 · July 21 2012 08:10:08 PM MDT

I would like to build a .308 AR next.

harrygunner · July 22 2012 10:25:30 PM MDT

Thanks for the responses. I know it's a question that's asked often.

Looks like I can load 110gr ammo for home defense. And have the option of using standard weights against animals or when I'm hunting.

So, I'm buying a AR10 style rifle.

'Rick1987' Building one sounds interesting. What were you thinking about doing?

REDLINE · July 23 2012 03:30:09 AM MDT

IMO you are making the right choice with the .308. I've never understood defending one's self with a varmint round against stuff waaaaaaaaaaay bigger than varmints.

You shoot a bad guy with a varmint cartridge and it MIGHT faze him. You get any decent shot placement with a good .308 load and it will usually faze him bigtime. I know there are exceptions to ever rule but I don't like the odds for exceptions to the rule with varmint cartridges.

Someday when I can afford one I intend to have a FNH SCAR 17S (it's chambered for .308 but recoils similarly to a .223). They sure don't give them away, but near as I can tell you get what you pay for in them.

Let us know what you end up choosing.

EdMc · July 24 2012 06:59:32 AM MDT

Go with the 308. As Hillbilly stated above both the Army and Marine Corp have gone back to limited use of the M-14 in Afghanistan. Hits harder at a longer range so to speak. The heavier 30 cal bullet is less easily deflected by foliage, etc. I always thought the AK (30 cal) was a better weapon than the M-16 (.223) I was issued in RVN.

hillbillyhans · July 24 2012 03:54:58 PM MDT

Ed, I'm with you. I love the AK. I prefer it over the AR platform. Some good sites, put the charging handle on the RIGHT (left) side, and get some good mags............Look out! The AK doesn't mind being dirty, and it eats shitty soviet ammo like it's goin outta style!

If I were getting a .308 it would be an M14/Springfield. Ask any designated marksman if he would rather have his decked out AR (supposed to blend in with everyone else, his AR is superior to a grunt's) or an M14. If I were a bettin man I would put my money on him goin with the M14.

The FN SCAR and the Springfield are similar in price so it all depends on what platform you like.

A side note for anyone who cares: I believe the M14 came back into service the same week the first recorded "hand-to-hand" situation happened. This was in Fallujah. The Marine took care of the brave (read stupid) Iraqi in a matter of seconds (no surprise), and I believe the first M14 went to some chalk leader with the 2nd Rangers. Could be mistaken on that last part, but think that's accurate.

EdMc · July 24 2012 08:17:36 PM MDT

"If I were getting a .308 it would be an M14/Springfield."

I agree, as I own a Springfield M1A Scout. Went through Basic with a M-14 back.....well, a long time ago. I didn't mention it as Harrygunner wanted a AR platform. Today it seems most want the 'Black Rifle' over the older wood and steel. Your money, your choice. ${$default_grin_smiley}$

hillbillyhans · July 24 2012 08:39:16 PM MDT

The new "Socoms" have rails for goodies/scopes whatever.
Having said that the AR is much more "modular". Don't know if that's the right word, but the "user" can fix/replace/repair anything on an AR within a short amount of time. Parts are plentiful, and used to be cheap. I don't own one anymore, but I get to see them from time to time, when a friend needs something done.

REDLINE · July 25 2012 12:39:46 AM MDT

EdMc and hillbillyhans; If an AK could be had chambered in 7.62x51mm I think I'ld be all over one. No doubt I see more merit in a 7.62x39mm than I do a 5.56x45mm, I'ld just prefer something decent, or better, chambered in 7.62x51mm. Not making an arguement here, just a IMO general thought.

EdMc · July 25 2012 06:32:36 AM MDT

I think someone makes AKs using 308. Seems I remember seeing some ads in Shotgun News or somewhere. The AK and the M16A1 were made for close quarters combat. The very light weight of the M16A1 was it's main attribute.....the A2 and later versions had a heavier barrel for a longer effective range but increased the weight of the weapon. The military term for the M-14 was 'battle rifle'.........some called it more of a target rifle. ${$default_wink_smiley}$ Basically a redesign of the M-1 Garand to use a detachable box mag, chambered in a shorter round (308) than 30/06 and capable of full auto fire. Just as in a pistol as you decrease the barrel length you lose velocity and effective range. Keep in mind that the less the ammo weighs the less weight the individual soldier has to carry. Just my opinion but the 7.62X39 round is a good match for the size of the AK.......in 308 you've lost some of the advantages of the 308 due to barrel length and have increased the the weight of an already not too light weapon. Anyway, I do own an AK and a bunch of ChiCom ammo in spam cans. ${$default_grin_smiley}$

sqlbullet · July 25 2012 08:30:41 AM MDT

Quote from: REDLINE on July 25 2012 12:39:46 AM MDT
EdMc and hillbillyhans; If an AK could be had chambered in 7.62x51mm I think I'ld be all over one. No doubt I see more merit in a 7.62x39mm than I do a 5.56x45mm, I'ld just prefer something decent, or better, chambered in 7.62x51mm. Not making an arguement here, just a IMO general thought.

You are looking for this.

I tend to agree with EdMc though. A 16" barrel is certainly NOT maximizing the performance potential of the 308. It will still beat the 7.62X39, but only by a couple hundred fps.