Stopping Power by Caliber Part 2

[stanc]

The Ellifritz data set, even if as shaky as you suggest, gives us the opportunity to look at this subject and develop a bit more insight.

Joe, I never suggested his data is shaky. I don't question the accuracy of his numbers. My objection is that I think it isn't broken down sufficiently to be of real help in the 5.56/7.62 replacement issue.

So, his data summary really does give me some comfort in asking for a 500 meter threshold similar to what we could expect from 9mm or M-1 carbine rounds near the muzzle. Similarly, the 7.62 M80 bullet doesn't always incapacitate at any range, but few complain about its lethality, so equaling or bettering its non-fragmenting permanent cavity at any range seems to make a reasonable objective lethality statement.

So, why not specify 7.62 M80 cavity dimensions @ 500 meters as threshold, instead of bringing a pistol caliber into requirements for a rifle cartridge?