Hog huntin Harry
Member
While 223/556 is a fine cartridge for many applications, it doesn't fill any specific role for me and my needs.
I've been considering a bolt action rifle chambered in 223 for bobcat and coyote, but I already have a 243 so there isn't much use for it in that situation.I shoot .223 more than 5.56. I like it for varmints and for targets. I have a stash of 5.56 for my AR, but I'm not much of an AR guy. I much prefer .223 in a bolt action.
Thank you for reminding me.You forgot HD/SD. Good for all of the above. I like both AR's and bolt actions in .223/5.56.
There certainly are other good cartridges around. I shunned the .223/5.56 for years because for years I couldn't hunt with it, and parroted the ".223 is too small for deer" line for years. Not long after WI went to rifle statewide, my son got a .223 bolt action, and proceeded to rack up the (deer) body count. So I got one. Never did get a deer with it; my son wanted another axis, and his 870 back, so I traded him my Axis and his 870 for his DPMS Sportical. Hunted with that one year, didn't get a shot. Then I built an AR pistol, that will be my next hunting gun.
Your list is not inclusive enough for me []
Ok, it's not my choice for moose or water buffalo; decidedly lean for anti-aircraft or anti-materiel use.
Mind, those are not uses I'm likely to put 5.56 to, too.
I was at the range once with the Ranch Rifle, at a bench under the roof, and announced that I was going to fire. The family expert a few tables down told everyone not to put on ears as the 223 was not loud enough to warrant hearing protection.Nah, too loud... liked my old .25-06 a lot better.