Smyth Busters: Was the 5.56 / .223 Round Designed To Wound?

The Colt Model 601, an early AR-15 variant predating the XM16, featured distinct design elements like a triangular charging handle and green fiberglass furniture. It had standard Safe, Semi, and Auto selector settings and lacked a brass deflector or forward assist. The chrome-plated bolt carrier was non-serrated, reflecting its early production phase between Armalite and Colt.

Dale Hanson, a MACV-SOG veteran, recounts intense close-quarters combat experiences in Vietnam, including equipment failure and the critical decision to call for air support. He details his role in intelligence gathering, capturing personnel and documents revealing enemy infrastructure. The discussion transitions to a modern range session, showcasing Hanson's enduring firearm proficiency with contemporary weapons like AR-15s.

Ammunition prices have significantly decreased across several popular calibers, returning to 2019 levels. This video highlights specific calibers like 9mm Luger FMJ, .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, .22 LR, .40 S&W, 7.62x39mm, .308 Winchester, 12 Gauge target loads, and 5.45x39mm, providing current pricing and availability insights from various retailers. The market stabilization is attributed to increased manufacturing output and stabilized supply chains, making it an opportune time for shooters to stock up.

This analysis from God Family and Guns explores the cost-effectiveness of reloading ammunition in 2026, particularly for common calibers like 9mm, .223, and 5.56mm, and larger calibers like .300 Win Mag. It highlights that reloading is generally not cost-effective for immediate savings due to initial equipment costs and the price of new components, especially brass. However, for long-term savings (2-3+ years) and when reusing brass, reloading can become significantly more economical, with savings increasing for larger calibers.

This video discusses significant changes in ammunition production and availability in America, focusing on the US Army's plans to build the next generation of ammo by repurposing a 5.56mm plant. It highlights shifts in the ammo market and touches on topics relevant to gun owners concerning ammunition supply and future developments. The content is presented by 'God Family and Guns' and includes links to their merchandise, Patreon, and other social media channels.

This experiment tests the visibility of tracer rounds across various calibers. High-velocity rounds like 5.56mm and 7.62x51mm are too fast to be seen. Slower rounds, such as the .22 LR at 1,034 FPS, are visible in flight, though reaction time is still unlikely. The test highlights the significant speed difference in ammunition and its visual impact.

This video details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15. Key steps include using a Geissele Reaction Rod for upper receiver stability, proper torquing of the proprietary barrel nut, and secure installation of the gas block and tube. The rail is then slid on and secured with two cross-bolts using a T-handle hex wrench. Final steps involve muzzle device installation and a thorough inspection.

Proper ammunition storage is crucial for maintaining reliability and safety. Avoid storing ammo in cardboard boxes in damp environments, as this leads to moisture absorption and corrosion. Utilize airtight containers like ammo cans and control humidity with desiccants like silica gel packs. Heat accelerates gunpowder and primer degradation, so store ammo at stable room temperatures. Reloading primers are particularly vulnerable to moisture and require strict airtight storage.

This video demonstrates how to upgrade an AR-15's A2 furniture to Magpul components. It details the removal of the A2 grip using a Bondhus hex set and the installation of a Magpul MIAD grip with interchangeable backstraps for improved ergonomics. The process also covers preparing and installing the Magpul PRS stock, highlighting its adjustable features for cheek weld and length of pull.

This video explores the custom Remington 11-87 shotgun used as a prop in 'No Country for Old Men.' The film required a semi-automatic shotgun with a suppressor, a combination not readily available at the time. Prop master Larry Zanoff details how a non-functional, 'homemade' looking suppressor was custom-built for the 11-87, with the iconic silenced sound effect achieved entirely in post-production.