The military has been using the 5.56 x 45mm cartridge ever since the introduction of the M-16 during the Vietnam War. Prior to that cartridge the standard issue was the Springfield .30-06 dating back to WWI, WWII and Korea. Except for the M-14 which utilizes the 7.62 x 51mm NATO or .308 Win cartridge.
Ever since it's introduction there has been much controversy over it's power and stopping ability. As compared to the other most widley utilized military weapon across the world the AK-47 which uses the 7.62 x 39mm essentially a .30 caliber bullet.
Based on the needs of the military most specifically the special operations groups there was an increased demand for a larger caliber bullet that could be deployed from the highly refined and successful AR paltform.
By late 2004 the 6.8x43mm SPC was said to be performing well in the field against enemy combatants. Special Operations[7] end users were reported to be very pleased with it.
Thus the birth of the 6.8 SPC essentially a .270 caliber bullet in a shorter shell.
Here is an ammunition test and comparison between the two cartridges. The visual comparison is markedly different. VIDEO
A great FAQ site for the 6.8 SPC can be found HERE. This is a one stop shop for anything related to the 6.8 SPC to include ammunition, manufacturers, etc.
68Forums.com is another great site to look at that has good info.
From an AR15 platform the 6.8 SPC is a great cartridge for hunting. For me there is no going back to the 5.56 in an AR platform... the 6.8 SPC Rocks!
In Afghanistan and Iraq, there were many situations where U.S. troops were able to spot enemy fighters at longer ranges (over 500 meters), but were not able to do much damage with their 5.56mm rifles. But Special Forces troops using M-16s modified to handle the new 6.8mm ammo, got much better results at these long ranges.
http://www.strategypage.com/military_photos/688cartridge.aspx
Before Marines in Afghanistan received enhanced 5.56mm rounds last month, an influential four-star general advocated behind the scenes for an option that packs even more punch: 6.8mm ammunition…
The Corps first considered fielding 6.8mm ammo in 2007, after rank-and-file members of Special Operations Command designed it with their command’s approval to address deficiencies with the standard 5.56mm round, Eby said. Neither SOCom nor the Corps fielded it, in part due to the cost and logistics it would have required to make the change.
Comments