SIG SPEAR XM7, WHY DOES THE ARMY WANT THIS?

Published on September 30, 2023
Duration: 11:41

This review of the civilian Sig Sauer Spear (.308) highlights its advantages over the 5.56mm variant and explains why the Army selected the XM7 (based on this platform) to replace the M4. Through practical tests involving steel targets, produce destruction, and penetration through paper, the video clearly demonstrates the superior stopping power and penetration of the .308 caliber. The reviewer also touches on the rifle's ergonomics, stock features, and dual charging options, offering a comprehensive look at this high-end firearm.

Quick Summary

The U.S. Army chose the Sig Spear XM7, chambered in .308 Winchester, to replace the M4 rifle due to the .308's superior stopping power and penetration. Ballistic tests show the .308 caliber Spear rifle causes significantly more destruction on targets and penetrates materials like paper more effectively than the 5.56mm variant.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Sig Spear XM7 (.308)
  2. 00:15Why the Army Wants the XM7 (.308)
  3. 00:44Sig Spear .308 Handguard & Ergonomics
  4. 01:09Sig Spear .308 Collapsible Buttstock Features
  5. 02:36Sig Spear .308 Charging Handle Options
  6. 03:03Caliber Size Comparison & Test Setup
  7. 03:165.56 vs .308 Steel Target Test
  8. 04:22Produce Destruction Test: 5.56 vs .308
  9. 05:40Watermelon Energy Comparison
  10. 06:16Penetration Test: .308 vs 5.56
  11. 08:18.308 Accuracy Test - Federal Ammo
  12. 09:43.308 Accuracy Test - Hornady Ammo
  13. 10:51Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the U.S. Army choose the XM7 rifle?

The U.S. Army selected the XM7, based on the Sig Sauer Spear platform, to replace the M4 rifle primarily because it utilizes a larger, harder-hitting caliber (.308 Winchester) which offers superior stopping power and penetration compared to the 5.56mm round used by the M4.

What are the key features of the civilian Sig Spear .308 rifle?

The civilian Sig Spear .308 features a robust, collapsible buttstock that locks securely, a comfortable and beefy handguard, and dual charging options (rear and side lever). It is chambered in .308 Winchester and is presented as the civilian counterpart to the military's XM7.

How does the .308 Spear perform in penetration tests compared to the 5.56mm Spear?

In penetration tests using reams of copy paper, the .308 Spear demonstrated significantly superior penetration, passing through all layers of paper. The 5.56mm Spear's projectile fragmented and lodged in the paper, indicating less penetration capability.

What was the accuracy like for the Sig Spear .308 at 100 yards?

At 100 yards with a 1-10 LPVO, the Sig Spear .308 showed decent accuracy with various ammunition types. While groupings were considered standard with Federal American Eagle and improved with Hornady Black and Superformance SST, the reviewer expected slightly better precision for the rifle's $4000 price point.

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