Better to Consolidate or Diversify Calibers for Bad Times?

Published on April 3, 2025
Duration: 15:13

This video discusses the strategic advantages of diversifying firearm calibers versus consolidating to a few common ones, particularly in anticipation of ammunition shortages or 'when SHTF' scenarios. The speaker and viewer comments lean towards diversification, arguing that less common calibers may remain available when popular ones are depleted. While stocking ammunition for every firearm isn't always practical, having firearms capable of firing a variety of calibers is presented as a key preparedness strategy.

Quick Summary

Diversifying firearm calibers is recommended for preparedness, as popular calibers are quickly depleted during shortages. Owning firearms in less common calibers, like .357 SIG, can provide an advantage when 9mm or .22LR are unavailable. While stocking every caliber isn't feasible, having firearms capable of firing a variety of available rounds increases your options in critical situations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Topic Setup
  2. 00:14The Caliber Debate: Consolidate vs. Diversify
  3. 01:22Argument for Diversification
  4. 01:34Ammo Availability During Shortages
  5. 02:07More Options, Less Vulnerability
  6. 03:02Viewer Opinions on Diversification
  7. 03:14Goost Shadow on Handloading and Options
  8. 03:33Practical Bacon's Diversification Strategy
  9. 03:49Experiences with .357 SIG and .40 S&W Availability
  10. 04:21Edgar Cortez's Extensive Caliber Collection
  11. 04:35Seeking a Consolidation Argument
  12. 05:12John Mandrick on Top Calibers
  13. 05:32Dale Ricky on Doing Both
  14. 06:04Edgar Cortez on Revolver Calibers
  15. 06:41Iowa Joe on Multiple Calibers
  16. 07:19Light Blue Oyster Cult on Stocking Handgun/Rifle
  17. 07:31Speaker's Primary Stocked Calibers
  18. 08:21Official Tater Hater's Diverse Collection
  19. 08:59Uncle Ed on Bartering and Diversification
  20. 09:51Goost Shadow on Reloading Versatility
  21. 10:17Reloading as a Solution
  22. 11:14George Powell's Caliber Choices
  23. 11:48Adam Jacobes on Diversification Challenges
  24. 13:19Loose Ammo Storage Anecdote
  25. 13:33George Powell's Consolidation View
  26. 13:41Conclusion and Viewer Engagement
  27. 14:02Live Chat Invitation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main argument for diversifying firearm calibers in preparedness scenarios?

The primary argument for diversifying firearm calibers is to increase your options during ammunition shortages or 'when SHTF' situations. Popular calibers are often the first to be depleted, leaving those who consolidated with limited resources. Owning firearms in less common calibers can ensure you have something to shoot when others cannot find ammunition.

Why might consolidating to common calibers be a disadvantage during a crisis?

Consolidating to the most common calibers, such as 9mm or 5.56, means these are the first to be bought out during periods of high demand or shortages. If you only own firearms chambered in these calibers, you risk being unable to acquire ammunition when it's most critical for self-defense or other needs.

Are there specific calibers that tend to remain available during shortages?

Based on viewer experiences shared in the video, calibers like .357 SIG and .40 S&W have been noted to remain available on shelves when more popular calibers like 9mm or .22LR are depleted. This is often because fewer people own firearms chambered in these less common, but still effective, calibers.

Is it necessary to stock ammunition for every firearm caliber you own?

No, it is not always necessary or practical to stock ammunition for every single firearm caliber you own. The strategy discussed is to have a diverse collection of firearms that can chamber various calibers. This way, if you find ammunition for a caliber you don't typically stock, you have a firearm ready to use it.

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