Gun Gripes Episode 66: The Caliber Debate

This video reviews ten firearms suitable as truck guns for 2026, emphasizing versatility, compactness, and firepower. It highlights AR pistols like the Wilson Combat ARP for their adaptability in various calibers, and pistol caliber carbines such as the CZ Scorpion Evo 3 S1 and Kel-Tec Sub2000 CQB for their concealability and common ammunition. Shotguns like the Kel-Tec KS7 and SP12 Compact are presented for their close-range effectiveness, while AR-pattern platforms like the Bear Creek Arsenal AR10 pistol in 8.6 BLK and the Smith & Wesson Response offer modern features and modularity. The Ruger LC Carbine in .45 ACP and the Black Aces Tactical Pro Series L lever-action shotgun are noted for their practicality and unique designs. The Sig P320 Flux Legion package is showcased as an integrated pistol-caliber carbine system.

This video highlights the significant over-reliance on 9mm ammunition, making it vulnerable to shortages during times of increased demand, such as military escalation or surges in new gun owners. The speaker, with apparent authority on firearms and market dynamics, advises diversifying ammunition calibers beyond 9mm to mitigate risks of price spikes and unavailability. Key alternatives suggested include .380 ACP, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum.

This video tests the ballistic resistance of a 24-inch adjustable wrench against various calibers, from .22 LR to .50 BMG. The wrench demonstrated significant durability, withstanding multiple impacts from intermediate rifle cartridges and even showing resistance to .308 Winchester. The .50 BMG round, however, completely destroyed the wrench's internal gearing mechanism.

This video from Mrgunsngear discusses the ongoing ammunition shortage and its potential to worsen. The speaker, Mike, identifies several contributing factors including Russian import sanctions, US aid to Ukraine depleting stockpiles, the shift of propellant production from small arms to artillery, COVID-related supply chain issues, tariffs on copper, and increased demand due to geopolitical events like the Iran conflict. He advises viewers, particularly those with limited ammunition reserves, to consider acquiring more common calibers like 9mm, 5.56, .45 ACP, .380 ACP, .22 LR, and .308 Winchester, anticipating price increases and reduced availability.

The video warns of an impending, potentially historic ammunition shortage due to a global gunpowder scarcity. The speaker, citing information from a major ammunition manufacturer, advises viewers to stock up on ammunition, especially common calibers like 9mm, 22LR, 380 ACP, and 45 ACP, as production may shift and prices are expected to rise significantly. The advice is presented as a fair warning for preparedness, not a scare tactic.

This video discusses an impending, potentially historic ammunition shortage driven by a global gunpowder scarcity. The speaker, citing information from a major ammunition manufacturer, advises viewers to stock up on essential calibers like 9mm, .22 LR, .380 ACP, and .45 ACP. While cautioning against hoarding, the emphasis is on ensuring personal readiness for self-defense and recreational shooting.

This video provides an expert-level overview of a heavily customized AR-15, nicknamed the 'Zombie Destroyer', built for a thematic zombie apocalypse scenario. The build features an extensive accessory loadout including multiple optics, lasers, and flashlights, along with a high magazine capacity. The demonstration includes rapid fire, engagement of Tannerite targets, and unique shooting techniques, showcasing the rifle's capabilities and the instructor's proficiency.

This video details an extreme AR-15 meltdown test, pushing a custom build to its limits. Expert instructor Eric demonstrates the process, highlighting component durability and failure points under sustained fire. The test concludes with a catastrophic barrel failure after 830 rounds, providing valuable insights into the platform's resilience.

This guide details the process of conducting an extreme durability test on an AK-47 variant, specifically the Definitive Arms VEPR, as demonstrated by Iraqveteran8888. The test involves sustained full-auto fire to induce critical heat failure, followed by inspection of components like the barrel and gas block. The expert assessment highlights the rifle's resilience, lasting 895 rounds before failure, and compares its performance to other platforms.

This guide details a 700-round rapid-fire stress test on a Yugo M92 PAP AK-47 variant, demonstrating the platform's legendary durability under extreme heat. Performed by Eric from Iraqveteran8888, the test highlights safe handling of overheated firearms and concludes with a tribute to Mikhail Kalashnikov's engineering legacy. The firearm successfully completed the test despite significant heat buildup.