New US Army Caliber Is On The Way! How Will This Effect YOUR Ammo?!

Published on July 21, 2023
Duration: 3:35

The US Army is transitioning to the Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program, which includes the XM7 rifle and XM250 automatic rifle, both chambered in a new 6.8mm caliber. This shift is impacting ammunition production at the Lake City Ammunition Plant, with a significant decrease in 5.56x45mm NATO production expected as resources are redirected to the 6.8mm. The first shipments of 6.8mm ammunition are already undergoing trials with the military, indicating this is an active transition, not a future possibility.

Quick Summary

The US Army's transition to the 6.8mm caliber for its Next Generation Squad Weapons (XM7, XM250) is causing a significant decrease in 5.56x45mm NATO production at the Lake City Ammunition Plant. This shift, already underway with initial 6.8mm trials, will likely impact civilian availability and pricing of 5.56mm ammunition.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Lake City Ammunition Plant Overview
  2. 00:31Introduction of NGSW Program & 6.8mm Caliber
  3. 00:50Lake City's Production Changes
  4. 01:12How 6.8mm Affects Civilian Ammo
  5. 01:33Military Transition to 6.8mm Underway
  6. 01:40Decreased 5.56mm Production Expected
  7. 02:23Impact on 5.56mm Ammo Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the US Army's new caliber?

The US Army is adopting a new 6.8mm caliber for its Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program, which includes the XM7 rifle and XM250 automatic rifle. This transition is already impacting ammunition production.

How will the US Army's new 6.8mm caliber affect civilian ammunition?

The increased production of 6.8mm ammunition for the military's new rifles means a significant decrease in the production of 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition from sources like the Lake City Ammunition Plant. This could lead to reduced availability and potentially higher prices for 5.56mm ammo on the civilian market.

Which rifles are part of the US Army's Next Generation Squad Weapons program?

The Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW) program includes the XM7 rifle and the XM250 automatic rifle. Both of these new firearms are designed to chamber and fire the new 6.8mm caliber ammunition.

Where is the US military's small arms ammunition manufactured?

A primary facility for US military small arms ammunition manufacturing is the Lake City Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri, currently operated by Winchester. This plant is undergoing significant upgrades to increase production of the new 6.8mm caliber.

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