04-06-2014, 06:58 PM
Listening to the experiences LRRPF52 relates, the CLAWS cartridge is not likely to be much larger than the 5.56mm NATO. Whether that translates to something like the 6mm or 25 cal based on the NATO cartridge (25-45 Sharps) or a (less likely) 6mm or 25 caliber variant of the 6.8 SPC like the 6.5 x 40 posted in another thread, is not real clear.
I am very sure, however, that the velocities attainable with conventional weight 6.5 caliber bullets are likely to make that caliber problematic as more and more of our real and potential adversaries adopt modern body armor.
Armies currently steeped in the culture of the 7.62x39 and the 7.62x54, however, might welcome the 6.5 Grendel. It does indeed fit the roles filled by those cartridges and would represent a substantial capability improvement without getting into the dilemma of maybe having gone too small.
I am very sure, however, that the velocities attainable with conventional weight 6.5 caliber bullets are likely to make that caliber problematic as more and more of our real and potential adversaries adopt modern body armor.
Armies currently steeped in the culture of the 7.62x39 and the 7.62x54, however, might welcome the 6.5 Grendel. It does indeed fit the roles filled by those cartridges and would represent a substantial capability improvement without getting into the dilemma of maybe having gone too small.