What caliber to build in a new AR?

[dennishoddy]

I've got 3, .223's in different twists, a .243WSSM, and an AR platform .22RF. The itch to build another came about.
BoomerShooter roll mark lower came out of the safe.
Built the lower over the weekend with the awesome Timney trigger we can get from our sponsor, and some parts from Make Ready Pro Sports, another sponsor.
I need suggestions for an upper caliber to build.
​I don't shoot long range competitions, but having one that is accurate at long range means you built a great rifle that will do anything. Hunting or target.
The .243 WSSM covers a lot of bases for long range and hunting. I don't have hogs, which would suggest a big thumper like one of the .45 or 50 cal's.
Although those calibers are not out of the question.
.300 blackout or Whisper......meh, not interested.
Buddy built a total JP .204. ​Incredible short to mid range varmint round, but not legal for deer.
​Looking for something between .22 cal in 55 grain up to .50 cal short action for the AR platform.
​Not interested in PCC unless its .44 mag.

What do I need to build?

 

[JoeF]

6.5 Grendel is always fun...

 

[poopgiggle]

.300 blackout or Whisper......meh, not interested.

Dang it, was gonna say you should build a 300 Blackout then spend $alot on tax stamps to build the ultimate Mall Ninja Home Defense Rig.

A friend in undergrad had a 450 Bushmaster for hogs. It was...effective. I don't think that fits your "long range" criterion but IIRC you already have an elk gun.

 

[FortyMikeMike]

.458 Socom?

+1 for 6.5 Grendel if you want to go the long range route.

 

[jtischauser]

I think .458 socom is next for me. Why you ask? Cause 'Merica!

6.8spc
.300blk

 

[jtischauser]

Looking at this Wikipedia list the .17hmr and .270 AR look interesting to me!

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_AR_platform_calibers

 

[poopgiggle]

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_AR_platform_calibers

An AR-10 chambered in 220 Swift is now my new "gun I talk about building for years but never do" gun.

 

[FortyMikeMike]

Today I learned that you could probably make a calendar with a different cartridge for each day, and that someone has at least tried to apply most of those cartridges to the AR platform.

 

[Wall]

9mm

 

[Matt1911]

9mm

Yep. Steel challenge and USPSA immediately got more fun when I started using the 9mm AR.

 

[jtischauser]

9mm

This is a must have AR!

 

[charger arms]

9mm

Think I will build a fun switch version this winter....

 

[Matt1911]

Think I will build a fun switch version this winter....

 

[Burk Cornelius]

.458 SOCOMM

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[dennishoddy]

Great suggestions.

Looking at this Wikipedia list the .17hmr and .270 AR look interesting to me!
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_AR_platform_calibers

Interesting list, but wondering how they adapted the .44 mag to the ar platform since its a rimmed case?
Got a .44mag Ruger carbine any way,so that's out.
I saw where some wildcatters took the ..223WSSM out to almost 5000fps, but I don't want to carry a rifle with a 2" Barrel profile around the range.
It's starting to lean toward a thumper although I don't need one. Two more BS lowers to build, coming up.
PCC? Maybe down the road. I can still kick Mr.PCC`s butt on the steel with the Nordic upper.

 

[drmitchgibson]

9mm for fun or 6.5mm for less fun