We Test The US Military's Newly Adopted .277 Fury Round

The Sig MCX Spear (XM7) is the US Army's new service rifle, chambered in the powerful 6.8x51mm (.277 Fury) cartridge, aiming to replace the M4. While it offers increased firepower, the review highlights significant drawbacks like front-heavy balance, a thick barrel profile, and slower controllability during rapid fire compared to intermediate cartridge rifles. The NGSW program also includes the XM157 optic and XM250 automatic rifle, which may be more impactful than the rifle itself.

The XM7 rifle, also known as the SIG MCX-Spear, is critically reviewed for its front-heavy design, attributed to its short-stroke gas piston system and suppressor optimization. While the 6.8x51mm caliber offers advantages, the overall package with optics and suppressors creates a 'chunky beast' requiring significant soldier strength and proper slings.

The U.S. Army's new M7 rifle, based on the Sig Sauer MCX Spear, faces scrutiny over troop dissatisfaction during testing. Key concerns include reduced magazine capacity (20 vs 30 rounds), significantly increased weight (9.58 lbs vs 6.5 lbs for M4), and potential ergonomic issues like a snagging charging handle and accidental magazine ejections. While the 6.8x51mm round offers increased range and armor penetration, the overall platform may necessitate shifts in tactical doctrine.

This review critiques the M7 rifle and the 6.8x51mm cartridge, arguing against their adoption based on flawed doctrine. The author suggests modern tactical challenges like extended range engagements and defeating advanced body armor are better addressed by alternative solutions like one-way attack drones, rather than simply increasing rifle caliber and weight.

This video features an accuracy test of the Sig SPEAR rifle using new 155gr Match ammunition in 6.8x51 (.277 Fury) caliber. The test follows up on a previous video that evaluated the rifle with 113gr solid copper ball ammo, which yielded approximately 4 MOA groups. The focus here is on the performance of the match-grade ammunition with the SPEAR platform, aiming to assess its precision capabilities.

The Sig SPEAR rifle chambered in the new 6.8x51mm cartridge, adopted by the U.S. military, is showcased. This review highlights its 16-inch barrel and impressive 80,000 PSI operating pressure. Future testing against body armor and ballistics gel is planned, with comparisons to 6.5 Creedmoor.

This video demonstrates the proper technique for loading the M1 Garand to prevent 'Garand Thumb'. It emphasizes maintaining downward pressure on the top round to control the bolt's cycling. The content debunks the idea that 'Garand Thumb' is inevitable, attributing it to inexperience and improper handling.

The Altyn helmet, a Russian titanium model, is tested for its ballistic capabilities. While effective against 9mm NATO and 00 buckshot, it fails to stop rifle rounds like 5.56x45mm and .308 Winchester. The visor cracks under birdshot impact. Despite its historical reputation, its extreme weight and lack of rifle protection make it outdated compared to modern composite helmets.

This ballistic test by Garand Thumb reveals that NIJ Level 3A rated ballistic masks, while stopping some projectiles, fail to adequately protect the wearer due to extreme backface deformation. Hits from a .44 Magnum caused fatal deformation, and rifle rounds completely penetrated. The conclusion is that these masks are largely ineffective and potentially dangerous, recommending helmets and proper training instead.

This video delves into the notorious 'Garand Thumb' phenomenon, explaining its mechanics and pain level through direct testing. It covers the M1 Garand's history, technical specifications, and proper loading techniques to avoid injury, including the 'bladed hand' method. The content also features novice testing and concludes with advice on training and firearm ownership.