As of now, I have my AR in 5.56. its got a mid-length 16" 1:7 melonite treated barrel made by voodoo innovations. I have a free-floated handguard, and Vortex Strike Eagle. Everything else is standard mil-spec. This my general range rifle, and will be used for whatever else I need.

Now the money part comes in. I want to upgrade. I would like an AR platform for hunting, some light competition use, and if fit hits the shan, I want to be able to pick up one rifle. I hate to say it but ultimately I am going for a DMR/SPR type build.

The problem lies here. I cant decide if I want to attempt to accurize my current rifle to fill the role (shes my first and I love her). The next option is to build a totally new rifle. (Always fun)

If I go with the option that leads me to building a new rifle, I am then presented with the option of 5.56 or .308. I like the 5.56 for several reasons. The DMR/SPR is designed as a squad weapon, not for lone wolves. 5.56 gives the option of ammunition availability and mag/parts interchangeability, much like the use of the SAW and IAR in small units. I also like 5.56 for the price of ammo, and the weight of ammo. If im not ringing gongs at 500yds or dropping bucks with heavier match ammo, I can load a mag of cheaper 55 or 62gr and blast some paper. I should note that if I build this DMR in 5.56, the preferred round I would use is Mk262.

As previously stated, the next option is .308. Obviously the more powerful round and built for longer distance. I like the round, it has proven its worth in this capacity. The adverse is the more expensive ammo, and the higher cost of parts to build the rifle. I am convinced that the 308 is better, but I like to go against the grain. I like to do the opposite of what other people do and proving that it will work.

Please help!

good luck getting Ar-10/308 parts right now lol.



But i think youve got it nailed, 5.56 is cheap and everywhere...and if SHTF is on your mind..5.56 being a nato round will be everywhere.  #08 is also readily avalible..but just not quite as much as 5.56.....Beyond that 500 mark i would probably want a bolt gun.


good chance to pick up an 18" Larue Stealth and get to building!

SHTF would dictate to me: light weight, most available caliber, easiest to find parts, engage at less than 200yds - any farther and I'm headed the other way anyway = 5.56

Hunting: .308 unless it's squirrel, or maybe even then if they are big, mean squirrels.

+1 What he said!

i have a similar thread
only i was looking at other ar15 platform calibers

i am leaning toward the 6.5 grendal