Top 4 Rifle Rounds for SHTF/ Home Defense (5.56 edition)

Published on May 18, 2024
Duration: 13:57

This video from Trench Grenade discusses the top four rifle rounds for SHTF and home defense scenarios, focusing on 5.56x45mm NATO. The host, an experienced shooter, breaks down the pros and cons of M193 (55gr FMJ), M855 (62gr green tip), M855A1, and 77gr OTM ammunition, offering practical advice on their effectiveness against unarmored targets, body armor, and barriers. The discussion emphasizes terminal ballistics and practical application for civilian defense.

Quick Summary

For home defense and SHTF scenarios, 77 grain OTM ammunition is considered the top choice for 5.56 due to its superior accuracy, wind bucking, and devastating terminal ballistics, even out of short-barreled rifles. If 77gr OTM is unavailable, 55 grain M193 is a viable alternative for unarmored threats, while M855 is generally less recommended for civilian defense.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Channel Overview
  2. 00:23Rifle Ammunition Choice Discussion
  3. 01:11Home Defense Rifle Setup
  4. 01:44Round 4: 55 Grain Full Metal Jacket (M193)
  5. 03:03M193 Terminal Ballistics
  6. 04:46M193 Limitations & Barrel Length
  7. 05:38Round 3: M855 (62 Grain Green Tip)
  8. 06:03M855 Myths vs. Reality
  9. 06:43M855 for Barrier Penetration
  10. 07:03M193 vs. M855 for Home Defense
  11. 08:20M855 Home Defense Recommendation
  12. 08:31Round 2: M855A1
  13. 09:05M855A1 Performance & Devastation
  14. 10:14M855A1 Barrel & Bolt Wear
  15. 10:53Round 1: 77 Grain OTM
  16. 11:2377 Grain OTM Performance
  17. 12:1277 Grain OTM Effectiveness
  18. 12:3777 Grain OTM for Short Barrels
  19. 12:49Viewer Questions & Discussion
  20. 13:50Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best 5.56 round for home defense?

For home defense, 55 grain M193 FMJ is often recommended over M855 green tip. M193 transfers energy more effectively in soft tissue and is less prone to over-penetration through interior walls than the barrier-penetrating M855. However, 77 grain OTM is considered superior if accessible.

What are the pros and cons of M855 green tip 5.56 ammunition?

M855 green tip 5.56 ammunition is designed for light barrier and body armor penetration. Its main con is that it acts like an ice pick, holding its form and not efficiently transferring energy in soft tissue, making it less ideal for unarmored targets compared to other rounds like M193 or 77gr OTM.

Is M855A1 good for civilian use?

M855A1 is a highly effective military round designed to defeat body armor and deliver devastating terminal effects. However, it's loaded very hot and can cause accelerated wear on rifle barrels and bolts, making it less ideal for high-volume civilian training or prolonged use compared to other options.

Why is 77 grain OTM considered the best 5.56 round?

77 grain OTM ammunition offers excellent accuracy, good wind bucking capabilities, and superior terminal ballistics. It significantly increases the lethality of 5.56, even from shorter barrels like an AR-15 Mark 18, making it a top choice for SHTF and home defense scenarios.

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