Does the 6.5 grendel have the potential to replace the 5.56 for the military?

[LR1955]

Gene, do you mean replace 7.62 across the board (infantry, armor, aviation, etc), or just in a LMG for infantry use (as per the 1970s 6mm SAW)?


Methinks you jest, but 6.8 SPC actually could be a viable option. Since at least 1892, whenever a new cartridge has been adopted, so has a new rifle to fire it. Therefore, there is no real need to stick with the COAL of 5.56 NATO. Increase the overall length of 6.8 SPC so that it can take a long-ogive projectile, and it ought to deliver about the same "reach" as 6.5 Grendel.

Plus, 6.8 disintegrating links already exist. :eek: (Sorry, John. I just couldn't resist. :o)

Stan / Guys:

I was serious about LRRP52's notion about a Grendel replacing 7.62 NATO. Would surely reduce the burden on the Infantry who has to hump 7.62. Not sure about the other branches.

Concerning the 6.8, I used it in jest. I don't own one and when I was considering sizing down the 6.8 to 6.5, you advised me that the case wouldn't hold any more powder than a Grendel case so the velocities would probably be the same. I was looking at it because at the time we were shearing bolt lugs more than just regularly, and I thought the 6.8 bolt would last longer. I decided against the idea.

I have toyed with buying a 6.8 but honestly, the pieces of paper I shoot can't tell the difference between a 6.8, .22 LR, 5.56, or anything else. Like the Grendel, it would make a fine hunting cartridge but I haven't hunted in years so it would be a waste of my money.

LR55