The only time that full-auto fire
offers an advantage is when facing very close
adversaries and multiple threats. The advantages of
full-auto do not justify the high costs of registered
firearms or the liabilities of illegally possessing one.
In most cases, semi-automatic fire is not only adequate
but also superior to full-auto, and this is especially
true in a survival situation where conservation of
ammunition is a priority.
While there are also
options to convert AR’s to a large number of pistol and
rifle calibers, the standard .223 (5.56x45mm) is the
best solution. (a comparison of calibers is outside the
scope of this article) The .223 round is available and
manufactured in greater numbers than any other round. In
addition, different loads are available to fill a number
of needs, from hunting small game up to long-range
accuracy, tracers, incendiary and more.
It is perhaps the
best round for CQB, surpassing any of the handgun rounds
with more stopping power and less chance of
over-penetration. It offers a flat trajectory, good
penetration when necessary, and destructive effects on
targets.
The 5.56mm NATO also
offers a light recoil, and small size. This is important
because you may need to carry and store a large amount
of ammunition, and the light recoil aids in training and
use by smaller or younger individuals.
As for loadings,
either the U.S. M193 55 grain or the current NATO 62
grain, steel core will do (U.S. SS109). Preference goes
to the 62 grain NATO round if it can be found. However,
the 55-grain loadings are cheaper and more readily
available. There are a number of other weights
available, but do not offer any advantages for our
general-purpose use.
