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 an expert-level comparison of four popular AR-platform cartridges: 22 ARC, 6mm ARC, 6.5 Grendel, and 6.8 SPC. The analysis, conducted by Banana Ballistics, utilizes a rigorous testing methodology including barrier penetration (lumber, steel, concrete) and water jug expansion tests, all meticulously recorded with a Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph. The 6.8 SPC demonstrated superior performance in several key areas, particularly in penetrating thicker steel plates.

Quick Summary

The 6.8 SPC cartridge exhibits superior barrier penetration capabilities among the 22 ARC, 6mm ARC, and 6.5 Grendel, successfully penetrating 3/8-inch steel where others failed. It also boasts the highest muzzle energy (1869 ft/lbs) from a 20-inch barrel with 120 gr SST ammunition, making it a potent choice for demanding applications.

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 offers the best barrier penetration?

Based on testing against 3/8-inch steel, the 6.8 SPC demonstrated superior penetration compared to the 22 ARC, 6mm ARC, and 6.5 Grendel. While all calibers penetrated 1/4-inch steel, only the 6.8 SPC successfully passed through the thicker plate.

What is the muzzle energy difference between 6.8 SPC and 6.5 Grendel?

From a 20-inch barrel, the 6.8 SPC with a 120 gr SST bullet achieved approximately 1869 ft/lbs of muzzle energy. The 6.5 Grendel with a 123 gr ELD Match bullet produced around 1688 ft/lbs, showing a notable difference in energy output.

How do 22 ARC and 6mm ARC perform against barriers?

The 22 ARC and 6mm ARC showed similar performance against lumber and 1/4-inch steel, penetrating both but leaving minimal impact on the steel. They did not penetrate 3/8-inch steel, indicating limitations against tougher barriers compared to the 6.8 SPC.

What tools are essential for accurate ballistic testing?

Accurate ballistic testing requires specialized tools like a reliable chronograph (e.g., Garmin Xero C1 Pro) to measure muzzle velocity and energy. Additionally, consistent barrier materials and precise measurement tools are crucial for repeatable and comparable results.

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