Keep in mind that 6.8 ammo is basically not available and neither are the mags commonly available. I've been looking at alternate chamberings since I'm a little short on uppers right now. I've got BCG for 5.45, 7.62, 6.8, and 5.56 as well as mags for all but no 6.8 ammo so I'm ditching that prospect. If you're just looking for a blasting rifle, the 5.45 is fine but hunting ammo for it is slim pickens. BTW I don't consider the steel cased 5.45 HP to be suitable for hunting and I'm not certain about the Hornady V-Max for anything but varmints.