277 Fury - 6.8x51 - Has the military lost its mind?

Published on April 6, 2022
Duration: 15:37

The video critically examines the US military's adoption of the 6.8x51mm (.277 Fury) cartridge and the SIG Spear rifle, questioning the necessity and practicality compared to previous options like 6.8 SPC. It highlights the cartridge's high pressures (80,000 PSI) and velocities (140gr at 3000 fps) enabled by hybrid case technology, but raises concerns about cost, barrel wear, and civilian availability. The host suggests 6.8 SPC might have been a more balanced solution.

Quick Summary

The .277 Fury (6.8x51mm) cartridge operates at 80,000 PSI, using hybrid case technology for high performance. It fires a 140gr bullet at 3000 fps, offering improved range and ballistics over 5.56 NATO, but raises concerns about cost and barrel wear.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: .277 Fury & Military Decision
  2. 00:21History of 5.56 NATO
  3. 01:33Search for a 5.56 Replacement
  4. 03:35Barrett M468 & 6.8 SPC
  5. 07:44SIG MCX-SPEAR & .277 Fury
  6. 09:28Hybrid Case Technology Explained
  7. 11:13Cost & Practicality Concerns
  8. 14:13Conclusion & Historical Context

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the .277 Fury cartridge and why is the US military adopting it?

The .277 Fury, also known as 6.8x51mm, is a new rifle cartridge developed for the US military's Next Generation Squad Weapon program. It aims to provide increased range, accuracy, and terminal ballistics compared to the legacy 5.56 NATO round, particularly in challenging environments.

What are the key technical specifications of the .277 Fury cartridge?

The .277 Fury cartridge is designed to handle extreme chamber pressures of 80,000 PSI. It typically fires a 140-grain bullet at velocities around 3000 feet per second, generating significant muzzle energy.

What is SIG's hybrid case technology for the .277 Fury?

SIG's hybrid case technology for the .277 Fury uses a combination of materials, typically a steel base and a brass body. This design is crucial for safely containing the immense chamber pressures required to achieve the cartridge's high performance.

What are the main concerns raised about the .277 Fury and SIG Spear?

Concerns include the high cost of the ammunition and the rifle, potential for rapid barrel wear due to extreme pressures and velocities, and questions about whether the performance gains justify the significant logistical and financial investment over existing or alternative solutions like 6.8 SPC.

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