22 ARC vs 6mm ARC vs 6.5 Grendel vs 6.8 SPC: Did Not Expect This

Published on October 24, 2024
Duration: 13:02

This video provides a comprehensive comparison of four popular AR-15 calibers: 22 ARC, 6mm ARC, 6.5 Grendel, and 6.8 SPC, focusing on their performance against various barriers. The expert analysis highlights the 6.8 SPC's superior penetration and energy transfer capabilities in several tests, including steel plates and water jugs, while acknowledging the other calibers' strengths. The review utilizes professional chronographs and detailed testing to offer data-driven insights into each round's effectiveness.

Quick Summary

The 6.8 SPC demonstrated superior performance in barrier testing against steel plates, successfully penetrating a 3/8-inch mild steel plate where the 22 ARC, 6mm ARC, and 6.5 Grendel failed. It also showed the most significant energy transfer in water jug tests, making it highly effective for stopping power and barrier work.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to AR Calibers
  2. 00:1622 ARC Barrier Testing
  3. 00:496mm ARC Barrier Testing
  4. 01:396.5 Grendel Barrier Testing
  5. 02:146.8 SPC Barrier Testing
  6. 03:04Water Jug Expansion Test
  7. 06:36Concrete Barrier Test
  8. 08:59Steel Penetration: 1/4 inch vs 3/8 inch
  9. 12:17Technical Data Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Which AR-15 caliber performs best against barriers like steel plates?

In barrier testing against steel plates, the 6.8 SPC demonstrated superior performance, successfully penetrating a 3/8-inch mild steel plate where the 22 ARC, 6mm ARC, and 6.5 Grendel failed. This indicates the 6.8 SPC offers better penetration capabilities for tactical applications.

How do 22 ARC, 6mm ARC, 6.5 Grendel, and 6.8 SPC compare in energy transfer?

The 6.8 SPC and 6.5 Grendel showed significantly more energy transfer and expansion in water jug tests compared to the 22 ARC and 6mm ARC. The 6.8 SPC, in particular, delivered the most substantial energy dump, making it effective for stopping power.

What are the muzzle energy figures for the tested AR-15 calibers?

Using a 20-inch barrel, the 6.8 SPC achieved the highest muzzle energy at 1,869 ft/lbs. The 6.5 Grendel followed with 1,688 ft/lbs, the 6mm ARC with 1,655 ft/lbs, and the 22 ARC with 1,452 ft/lbs, according to the Garmin Xero chronograph data.

Can these AR-15 calibers penetrate concrete barriers?

While all four calibers tested (22 ARC, 6mm ARC, 6.5 Grendel, 6.8 SPC) were capable of shattering concrete blocks, none successfully penetrated the wooden backing behind the concrete, suggesting limitations for extreme barrier penetration scenarios.

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