Stopping Power by Caliber Part 2

[JASmith]

...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?

I am not suggesting a pistol caliber as a requirement. I make the observation that the rate of incapacitation for these bullets is likely high enough that a rifle producing similar results out at 500 meters would make a good threshold.

The M80 is posited as an objective because it is considered to be highly effective even though it doesn't give the same results as a .50 caliber. I know at least three people who survived hits by the .50 BMG (AKA 12.7mm). So we want to avoid asking for something that isn't possible.

Further, the principal requirement for Tony's quest is to reduce the ammunition, magazine, and link weight while getting close to the same effectiveness. Requiring that the new cartridge do the same in all aspects as the 7.62 M80 effectively causes the search to collapse into a statement that the 7.62 M80 is the round of choice.