Rifle actions come in different lengths to accommodate different lengths of bullets. Knowing the action length of a rifle is important to understand what length of bullet you can put in the rifle.

In general, cartridges under 2.8″ in overall length are considered short action. Cartridges between 2.8″ and 3.6″ are long action, and cartridges over 3.6″ require a magnum action. However, there are many exceptions such as the 6.5 PRC, which is considered a short-action cartridge despite its 2.955″ length.

The problem with that general rule is that there are so many exceptions. The exceptions occur because rifle and cartridge makers like to bend and shape what we consider “short action.” It also depends on the particular rifle. For example, Browning may make the action slightly longer than Winchester, so Browning may consider a cartridge as “short action” which would require a standard action in a Winchester rifle/magazine. It just depends.

It simply isn’t possible to give specific numbers such as those bolded above to say what is and isn’t a short action cartridge. Those are general guidelines, but there are many exceptions.

Common Rifle Cartridges, and Their Action Lengths

What is a short-action rifle? The term “short action” refers to a rifle designed to accept cartridges up to approximately 2.8″ in length, or similar to the length of a .308 Winchester. However, specific rifle designs sometimes accept slightly longer cartridges up to 2.955″ in a short action.

What is a long-action rifle? The term “long action” means a rifle that accepts cartridges between approximately 2.8″ and 3.6″. A common example of a long action is the .30-06 or the .270 Winchester. Long actions are sometimes referred to as “standard-length action.”

What Happens if an Action is Too Short for the Cartridge?

As you can see in the image above, this cartridge will not load in this rifle. This is a short-action rifle, with a cartridge that is too long to fit. The back of this cartridge is pushed all the way back against the bolt face, but the rear wall of the magazine, but the front of the bullet can’t fit down into the mag well. Even if this rifle were chambered for this round, it wouldn’t load because the cartridges wouldn’t fit in the action or the magazine.

This is a common issue when selecting a VLD bullet on a cartridge that is very close to the limit for the action.

Suppose you hand load a cartridge such as the 6.8 Western. Its cartridge overall length is 2.955″, which is right on the edge of what we could possibly call a “short-action” cartridge. You select a Berger VLD hunting bullet which is very long and slender, and you want to seat that bullet far out from the mouth of the case for better accuracy on your particular setup. It’s possible that the cartridge may not chamber in your particular rifle if the action is too short.

Each rifle will be slightly different in how long the “short action” will be. It may chamber in one rifle, but not another.

Turkey hunting can get a bit dreary as the season runs on. Like most wild game seasons, the shimmer of opening day has faded, gobbles have become less frequent, and the needle on your motivation gauge probably sits on E. But there is a bright side to the latter weeks of turkey season. Most hunters have either tagged out, turned their attention to fishing, or sworn off the sport completely. In theory, this means less competition. Unfortunately, most of the “easy” turkeys are gone, and the wary, old gobblers or skittish two-year-olds seem reluctant to gobble at best.

Still, the late season can be a great time to bag a longbeard. The past two years, I’ve been fortunate enough to take a gobbler the last week of each season. Gobbles were seldom, and the tactics required a bit of creativity, but they were some of the most rewarding hunts I’ve had to date. Here are a few tips to bag a last-minute tom.

Cover Ground

Though not always the case, you’ll need to put some distance between you and the parking lot to strike a gobbler. A lot of hunters won’t hike several miles at the beginning of the season, much less after a long month of hunting. If you haven’t already, e-scout potential roost sites that are at least a half-mile from any roads or access points. Treat this scouting the same way you would if you were planning an out-of-state turkey hunt. Look for open, old-growth timber stands with ridgelines, multiple terrain features, or ones that border private ag fields. Then, get ready to run-n-gun.

Pull a Turkey Hunting All-Dayer

Most turkey hunters call it quits when the gobbling slows down, but mid-morning to afternoon can be a sweet time to strike a lonely tom. If your first spot doesn’t work out, pull up stakes and head to another property or public ground. You’ll likely find parking lots at your nearest national forest vacated well before noon. Of course, you’ll want to check local regulations if your season has a midday cutoff.

Call Less Frequently

You can’t read any turkey literature without the mandatory plea to call less. While I do believe there’s a time and place to go toe-to-toe with a fired-up gobbler, the late season isn’t it.

Assuming your opening season lines up with peak breeding, most gobblers aren’t as eager as they were opening morning. Couple that with weeks of hunting pressure, and you’ll quickly find that most longbeards gobble less. No matter how many times you cutt, cackle, or yelp, he’s probably going to be reluctant to respond — at least audibly. If he does decide to commit to your calls, it’ll be silent. If you strike a bird and he goes quiet, keep the calling and moving to a minimum. He’s probably headed your way.

Subtle calling can be the way to a late-season gobbler’s heart. He’s heard every call in the book by this point. Soft clucks, purrs, and strategically timed scratches can put him at ease.

Get Close to the Roost

Of all the late-season birds I’ve killed, getting tight to the roost played a huge role in the success. This is an aggressive tactic, especially if you’re making a move after he gobbles, but a tom is more likely to come check you out if he doesn’t have to cross a country mile to get there. Terrain, foliage, and daylight dictate how close you can get, but if you can sneak within 100 yards of his roost tree, you’re giving yourself a greater chance.

Subtle, infrequent calling definitely applies here. Even if he doesn’t respond to your soft clucks or tree yelps, he hears you. You don’t have to make him cut you off, as fun and tempting as that seems. This is also a great time to mimic a fly-down if you can get away with the movement.

Setup on Ambush Sites

Sometimes, no matter how much subtle or excited calling you do, a gobbler just isn’t interested. If you’re still holding onto a tag the last week of turkey season, your best efforts might be to locate strut zones or travel routes and sit over them. Though not as exciting as watching a tom strut and gobble into shotgun range, it can be predictably effective. Strut zones could be a certain field edge, ridge top, or creek bottom that turkeys frequent. These can be tough to locate at this point in the season, but glassing field edges or a quick scouting trip can help you locate them.

For travel routes, dip into your deer scouting techniques. Think about pinch points in the big woods or trails that lead from timber into fields. You can also check for tracks crossing dirt roads and backtrack the likely route into the timber. Once you pin down a travel route or strut zone, sit back and get comfortable. Turkey hunting is often just a waiting game.

Final Thoughts on Late-Season Turkey Hunting

Late-season gobblers (probably) won’t throw all caution to the wind and come running to your setup, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. Creativity and patience go a long way at this point in the season. Include those two into your tactics, and you’ll have a decent shot at filling your tag in the eleventh hour.

Most people will have a few bags of frozen chicken in their freezer. It can be easy to forget about one or two bags only to discover them too late – when they’re freezer burnt.

Freezer burn has a very distinctive taste, but it’s hard to describe. Off, weird, old, musty, and ‘like the freezer’ are some of my attempts.

So, how do you get rid of the taste of frozen chicken? To get rid of frozen chicken taste, marinate or brine the chicken and cut off any visible bits of freezer burn. You can also opt to use the chicken in a dish where its flavor will be overpowered, such as a curry, enchiladas, or something spicy.

Related: How To Store Raw Chicken In The Freezer

How to make frozen chicken taste better

The freezer taste that clings to your chicken is not a seasoning anyone would choose. A simple frying, grilling, or baking won’t be enough to shake it off.

Sadly you can’t get rid of the taste of freezer-burn completely, but you can improve it to the point where it’s barely noticeable.

Here are a few ways to go about making your frozen chicken disaster edible.

Word of warning: you may see varying success depending on how badly your chicken has suffered in the freezer.

But the way I see it is that the only thing you have to lose is time.

You either throw the meat out straight away or try and save it. If you save it great. If not you can throw it away, but at least you tried.

Cut off any freezer burnt bits

The most important thing to do is to cut off any obvious bits of freezer burn. Cut them off before you cook the chicken.

This will get rid of the worst tasting bits, but it won’t completely solve the problem. Freezer burn affects the whole piece of meat and not just the visible bits. The rest of the chicken probably won’t taste great either, but that’s where the next tactics come into play.

Marinate or brine the meat

Marinating meats is a classic way to flavor them, and it’s even more important when you’re dealing with freezer burnt chicken.

A good, strong marinade will help mask the frozen taste, and adding something acidic to the marinade will help to tenderize the meat.

Acids break down some of the proteins and fats in the meat, making it more tender. Balsamic vinegar is a good option. It’s acidic and adds a slightly sweet flavor to the chicken.

Put a small but concentrated amount of your chosen marinade into a ziploc bag and add the frozen chicken. As the chicken defrosts, the juice from the chicken will mix with the marinade and dilute it. Shaking the bag a few times as the chicken is thawing will help to ensure even coverage.

Brining meat is similar to marinating.

Make a saltwater solution and let the chicken sit in it as it thaws. The primary goal of brining is to tenderize the meat, the flavor comes second.

The salt solution will replace some of the lost moisture in the chicken and help bring it back to life. You can also add some herbs and spices to the brine mix such as sage, black pepper, or garlic. This will help to give the chicken a subtle flavor.

Grind or shred the chicken and put in a sauce

One of the best things you can do to disguise badly frozen chicken is to use it in a dish where the texture or taste of the actual chicken doesn’t matter too much.

Grinding or shredding the meat means you no longer need to worry about the texture of the meat because you’re changing it anyway.

Grind the chicken up with a meat grinder (link to amazon) to make meatballs or burgers and add whatever additional flavors you like to mask the ‘frozen’ taste. Thai chicken meatballs are super tasty and a little different from the usual Italian recipes you’ll find. You need lots of garlic, chili, ginger, and kaffir lime (if you can get hold of it).

Just like ground meat, shredded meat can be easily flavored. You can slow cook it in a crockpot with lots of sauce to mask any off-tastes. Add bbq sauce to make an alternative to pulled pork, or use salsa and black beans to make a delicious burrito filling. You’re basically turning the chicken into a sauce delivery vehicle.

Related: How To Reheat Frozen Shredded Chicken

If you want something cold, you can poach and then shred the meat to make a chicken salad.

Use it to make a stock or soup

If the frozen chicken taste is really offending you, then use it to make soup or stock. That way, you can still make use of the chicken without actually eating it.

Don’t worry. The chicken won’t leave a frozen taste in your stock. It will taste just like regular chicken stock.

Thaw the chicken and simmer it in water along with some vegetables. Once it’s done you can strain the chicken and either get rid of it or shred it and put it back into the soup.

This technique works best if your chicken is on the bone. The bones tend to add a lot of nutrients and extra flavor. However, it will also work fine with boneless chicken.

Make a curry / stew

Curries and stews tend to be very strongly flavored. The sauce is the star of the dish, and the chicken is more of a filler. As a filler, the chicken’s flavor gets lost and you can forget about the fact it doesn’t taste perfect.

Any recipe will do so just pick your favorite curry or stew and get cooking.

If you’re pressed for time a quick alternative to curry is to slather hot sauce on your chicken. This may not mask the texture but it will definitely hide any bad tastes.

Return it (if store bought)

If you bought the chicken pre-frozen from a store then the likelihood is you can return it.

Most food stores will accept returns if you’re not happy with the quality of the food. Simply state you found the taste and texture of the chicken unacceptable.

Of course you wont be able to return the chicken if you bought it fresh and froze it yourself.

What causes frozen chicken to taste bad and how to prevent it from happening again?

It’s no secret that freezing foods can affect their quality, but it’s not always clear why. There are two factors at play with chicken: the chicken’s texture altering and freezer burn.

Texture changes

As the chicken freezes, ice crystals form inside it. The sharp edges of these ice crystals rupture the chicken’s cell walls, causing the muscle fibers to weaken and break down. This noticeably alters the chicken’s texture and means the meat can no longer hold in moisture effectively. As the chicken thaws, lots of moisture will be lost leading to a dry piece of chicken.

You can’t prevent these ice crystals from forming as it’s part of the freezing process. But you can minimize how many form and how big they are. The quicker you freeze the meat, the less time the ice crystals have to form.

Chill the meat in your fridge first so it’s as cold as possible before going into the freezer. Then flash freeze the meat uncovered for a few hours. Uncovered meat will freeze faster than covered meat. Once the meat has frozen solid, make sure to cover it before leaving it for longer-term storage. Effective wrapping of the meat will help to prevent freezer burn.

Freezer burn

Freezer burn is the next issue and can affect both the taste and texture of frozen chicken.

Freezer burn occurs when the chicken is exposed to cold air. The cold air draws moisture out of the surface of the meat, leaving it severely dehydrated. Freezer burn isn’t unsafe to eat, but it doesn’t taste very nice.

It’s easy to see freezer burn on chicken because the meat changes color. The meat will turn white and look visibly tougher.

Luckily, freezer burn is completely preventable. You may have fallen victim to it this time, but you don’t have to again. Prevention is key to avoiding frozen chicken taste.

To prevent freezer burn, you need to prevent any air exposure. One way to do this is to wrap each individual bit of chicken in a double layer of plastic wrap or tin foil and then put it in an airtight container.

Related: How To Break Apart Frozen Chicken

Alternatively, if you have a vacuum sealer at home you can use this. Vacuum sealers are great because you can be sure no air will be in contact with your meat. I recommend the Greyon food saver (amazon link). There is a slight upfront cost involved, but it will save you money in the future because you’ll never need to throw out ruined frozen food again.

If you’re an avid hunter, capturing intense moments and sharing them on Instagram is a point of pride. That’s why we’ve made a comprehensive list of 100 hunting captions for Instagram.

Whether you enjoy the thrill of the hunt or the peacefulness of being in nature, these hunting quotes for Instagram will perfectly capture your experiences. For those who love to sprinkle a dash of humor in their posts, don’t miss our compilation of hunting puns for Instagram at the end of the list.

So gear up and prepare to give your posts that extra edge!

Hunting Captions for Instagram

• Hunting is the real adventure sport.
• Buck wild!
• Embracing the wild, one hunt at a time.
• This is the dawn of the deer. Let the chase begin.
• This deer stand is my quiet place.
• Does this camo make my hunting look good?
• Hunting isn’t a hobby. It’s a way of life.
• Hunt with pride, conserve with love.
• Aim for success in every shot.
• A hunter’s heart knows no bounds.

You Might Also Like: Nature Captions for Instagram

• I’d rather be hunting.
• Catch me living my best life in the wild.
• Silent in pursuit, loud in victory.
• There’s a part of the hunted in every hunter.
• Deer season is here, and I’m fawning over it.
• Embracing the wild silence.
• A moment of patience can result in a great trophy.
• The joy of hunting is in the chase, not the kill.
• Do I love hunting? You bet your buck!
• The hunt is a true test of patience.

Next: Beautiful Scenery Captions for Instagram

• Born to hunt, forced to work.
• The thrill of the chase, the victory of the capture. That’s hunting.
• The beauty of nature, the excitement of the hunt.
• Silent woods, loud heartbeat – it’s hunting season.
• Hearing the call of the wild.
• Nature’s finest moments are found in the hunt.
• Live wild, hunt free.
• The trophy pride is the result of patience and precision.
• The legacy continues, one hunt at a time.
• I love the camaraderie in the wild.

You Might Also Like: Travel Captions for Instagram

• I find peace in the wilderness.
• Hunting buddies for life!
• In the quiet whispers of nature, we hunt.
• Animal tracks lead to life’s greatest adventures.
• Conservation, not destruction. That’s ethical hunting.
• Staying where the Wi-Fi is weak but the hunt is strong.
• Hunting tales told by campfires and starlight.
• The call of the wild is impossible to resist.
• Proudly carrying on the hunting legacy.
• Nature’s secrets, a hunter’s gain.

Next: Dirt Bike Captions for Instagram

• Rifles, racks, and deer tracks.
• Embarking on a journey into the heart of nature is what makes hunting a thrilling experience.
• Hunting is a passion that never fades.
• We hunt responsibly and honor the land.
• Hunting is a love story between a man and the wild.
• Feel the thrill and embrace the chill, time to hunt.
• Hunting is the pursuit of life, not the pursuit of death.
• Moms make every shot.
• Never underestimate a hunter’s determination.
• Today’s office is the hunting blind.

You Might Also Like: ATV Riding Captions for Instagram

• As the sun rises, so does the hunter.
• A successful hunting trip is measured by the memories made, not the trophies taken.
• True hunters are not defined by their kills but by their respect for nature.
• The wilderness is my happy place, and hunting is my therapy.
• Every hunting trip is an opportunity to learn something new.
• Hunting is in my blood.
• Hunting connects us to the land and the animals.
• Life is a hunting ground, and I’m the hunter.
• I came, I saw, I conquered the hunt.
• Nature doesn’t discriminate, and neither do I.

• Nature’s mysteries unfold with every hunt.
• A bad day in the woods beats a good day anywhere else.
• Bringing home the (deer) bacon, one hunt at a time.
• Chasing adventure in the great outdoors.
• True hunters never quit.
• The great outdoors, where the only limit is my own ambition.
• Hunting is my therapy, and nature is my refuge.
• Stealth, strategy, and success: the hunter’s trinity.
• The pursuit of greatness begins in the wilderness.
• In the heart of the wilderness, hunters find solace.

Hunting Quotes for Instagram

• “If we act like prey, they’ll act like predators” – Alyxandra Harvey
• Problem-solving is hunting. It is a savage pleasure and we are born to it.- Thomas Harris
• You know, if you need 100 rounds to kill a deer, maybe hunting isn’t your sport.- Elayne Boosler
• I’m an outdoors girl – I like to go fishing, riding four-wheelers, and hunting.- Miranda Lambert
• You must not only aim right but draw the bow with all your might.” – Henry David Thoreau
• “A hunt based only on trophies taken falls far short of what the ultimate goal should be.” – Fred Bear
• “If you are not working to protect hunting, then you are working to destroy it.” – Fred Bear
• “You can see the true heart of a man when you’re out in the woods with a weapon.” – Jase Robertson
• “Don’t get much better than fall. Bring on the camo, ammo, ducks, and bucks.” – Earl Dibbles, Jr.
• “Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein

• “To track prey, you must first know it as you would a brother.” – Michelle Paver
• “A duck call in the hands of the unskilled is one of conservation’s greatest assets.” – Nash Buckingham
• “The No. 1 rule of duck hunting is to go where the ducks are.” – Jose Robertson
• “Wildlife and its habitat cannot speak, so we must and we will.” – Theodore Roosevelt
• I have always tempered my killing with respect for the game pursued. I see the animal not only as a target, but as a living creature with more freedom than I will ever have. – Fred Bear
• Hunting is the perfect blend of adrenaline and tranquility.
• Hunting season: a time to reconnect with nature.
• Nature comes alive through the lens of a hunter.
• Hunting: where you hide yourself to find yourself.
• In the pursuit of the wild, we find ourselves.

Hunting Puns for Instagram

• Time to hunt. No ‘bucking’ around.
• The silent steps of a hunter reveal the true heartbeat of the wilderness.
• There’s a primal joy in tracking the elusive and conquering the untamed.
• In the woods, time slows down, and the hunter becomes attuned to the rhythms of nature.
• In the wild, I feel alive, connected, and truly free.
• The thrill of the chase is only rivaled by the beauty of the wild.
• Into the wild, we go.
• Hunting: a primal instinct unleashed.
• Tree stand naps are the best part of hunting.
• Some girls play house, but real girls go hunting.

In the early days of my spring turkey hunting career, the early morning gear assembly centered around making sure I had my shotgun, a box of shotshells and the right call. Or more accurately—since I’m a confirmed gear junkie—the right calls, since my vest was likely to contain several on any given morning. Yeah, I’m a marketer’s dream, which might explain why my vest was so heavy and my back ached so much after a day spent running and gunning in the North Texas woods.

But after a close encounter with a big old Texas rattlesnake one April morning, wearing the proper boots became a matter of pressing concern. As the years have gone by and I’ve encountered cold conditions, wet days and just wanting a little more comfort, my garage shelves now contain several turkey-hunting boot options. If you’re looking for the perfect boot for spring turkeys this year, here are several options to consider:

Danner Sharptail Snake Boot

Upland bird hunters might recognize the Danner Sharptail lineup as a great option for hiking across the New England grouse woods, sharptail country in Montana, or South Dakota cornfields for autumn roosters. But the veteran footwear manufacturer also has a winning snake-proof boot that will work for turkey hunters in the spring. With a full-grain leather and 900 Denier nylon upper, this boot is tough on the outside, and with 360-degree Snake Guard protection, you don’t have to worry about rattlers in Texas, water moccasins in Florida, or copperheads in the Carolinas.

Snake protection and rugged durability are only a couple of this 17-inch boot’s features. Add in a removable OrthoLite Footbed, the famed Danner Sharptail Outsole and TERRA FORCE platform, a side zipper and lace-up front, and a 100-percent waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane, and this boot is as comfortable on the inside as it is heavy duty on the outside. And with other Sharptail boot options available, the entire lineup is great to consider for hunting spring turkeys and fall upland birds. danner.com | $330

Irish Setter MudTrek Boot

No matter how wet and slippery the hunting conditions are in the spring turkey woods, the Irish Setter MudTrek boot will keep you climbing muddy hillsides, walking through shallow creek bottoms, and having dry socks and feet on a dew-soaked morning. Checking in as a 17-inch pull-on rubber hunting boot, this model features vulcanized rubber for waterproof construction, as well as a rubber mudder outsole that provides stability and traction in rough-and-tumble terrain thanks to an aggressive lug pattern. With unisex sizing that will work for men, women and youth, this boot also has a Mossy Oak Country DNA camo upper along with ScentBan scent control. And with easy-on-easy-off leg and ankle openings, this stylish and comfortable boot can work in the turkey woods, back at the cabin, or in a late October treestand as the whitetail rut approaches. irishsetterboots.com | $199

LaCrosse AeroHead Sport Boot

If you hunt in the swampy low country of South Carolina, need to cross a rain swollen creek in Tennessee, or have to negotiate some muddy terrain in Western Merriam’s country, a rubber boot might be a preferred option for spring hunts. The AeroHead Sport from LaCrosse is a game-changer in that department, turning to a shell made from extremely durable, lightweight and insulating polyurethane, the same material used to insulate refrigerators and freezers. That helps to keep hunters light on their feet in this 16-inch boot that checks in with a weight of just five pounds.

Hunters don’t have to worry about their socks getting wet either from pesky holes and boot punctures, since the AeroHead Sport features lightweight neoprene uppers and uses Brush Tuff material on the outside to stand up to unforgiving brush and briers. That results in another winner from LaCrosse, an abrasion-resistant boot (there’s also a shin guard for extra protection without adding bulk) that is lightweight, comfortable, durable and waterproof. It’s the complete package in a hunting boot when wet conditions exist. lacrossefootwear.com | $240

LaCrosse NWTF Grange Boot

Dubbed the official boot of turkey season, LaCrosse has taken its famous Grange rubber boot and added Mossy Oak camouflage and a partnership with the National Wild Turkey Federation to keep the spring woods filled with gobbles for many years to come. Using 100-percent waterproof rubber construction, this 18-inch boot has a nylon fabric lining to aid getting into and out of the boot, as well as a fiberglass shank, EVA footbed, adjustable top strap and Lacrosse’s revolutionary ankle fit.

With the NWTF logo adorning the outside, these stylish boots also support conservation since LaCrosse gives a portion of each sale back to the NWTF to support wild-turkey conservation efforts. That’s a win-win in the turkey woods. lacrossefootwear.com | $120

Merrell Moab 2 Timber Waterproof Boot

Not every turkey hunter needs or wants a rubber boot, or something tall and snake-proof. For those who like to hunt run-and-gun style by hiking through prickly pear flats in Texas, the rolling terrain of the Rocky Mountains, or the pine and oak forests back east, the Merrell Moab 2 Timber Waterproof boot is a great choice for turkey hunting.

With Merrell’s ComfortBase footbed and midsole technology for superior shock absorption and cushion on rugged terrain, this eight-inch boot feels like a top-end hiking boot. Add in a full-grain waterproof leather upper, a waterproof membrane inside that keeps H2O at bay and still allows the foot to breathe, and this is a comfortable and dry boot all day long.

And with Merrell’s Air Cushion in the heel to absorb shock and add stability, not to mention a slip and oil resistant durable rubber outsole, and this boot is comfortable and steady no matter how rugged the terrain you’re hiking through while trying to strike up a gobbling bird on a fine spring day. merrell.com | $175

Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Rubber Snake Boot

Rocky is one of America’s leading footwear manufacturers for hunters and the Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Snake Boot is another winner from this longtime Ohio bootmaker. With 100-percent waterproof protection, vulcanized rubber construction, rubber outsole, and steel shank and removable footbed, this boot is tough in the woods where rainfall or other water encounters are a definite possibility.

And if there’s a chance you might see a venomous snake, this boot has you covered there, too, thanks to 16 inches worth of snake-proof protection.

Add in Rocky’s Briar & Thorn Guard, and you can walk through briars, brush, and cactus flats without any worries. And to top it all off, the boot comes in the stylish Realtree Edge camo pattern, so you’ll look good back at camp in the skinning shed, at the dinner table telling hunting stories, or around the campfire while celebrating another hard-won gobbler. rockyboots.com | $187

Thorogood American Heritage Crazyhorse Boot

On some rare April mornings down South and across the East, it can be quite chilly and damp as frost coats the ground. Further north in New England, across the Great Lakes states, and out into Merriam’s country in the Rocky Mountains, freezing temps and even late-season snow can be the culprit, causing cold toes and damp feet. If you might need a warm-and-dry boot for such conditions, keep the eight-inch waterproof and insulated Thorogood American Heritage Crazyhorse boot in mind when it becomes available later this year. With Crazyhorse full-grain leather and 400 grams of waterproof insulation, your feet will stay protected, warm and dry even if April snow showers threaten May wildflowers.

Add in a composite shank, slip-resistant Vibram 1275 Olympia rubber outsole, Goodyear storm welt construction and removable Ultimate Shock Absorption inserts, this boot provides rugged protection, lots of traction, and keeps a hunter’s feet cushioned on the move. And with American-made construction, this boot scheduled to appear this year will be a winner for hunters in many types of terrain and hunting seasons. thorogoodusa.com

Twisted X Snake Boot

The Twisted X boot lineup is popular for many, featuring stylish construction and lots of features that hunters like in and out of the woods. This 17-inch snake boot in Mossy Oak Bottomland camo features a full-grain leather upper, leather pull-on tabs, waterproof lining, Viperguard technology snake protection, nylon/glass fiber shank, superior CellStretch cushioning in the forefoot and heel areas, compression-molded EVA midsole that actually has molasses integrated into it, and an oil- and slip-resistant molded rubber outsole. The boot also is environmentally friendly, coming with a 17-inch shaft made with an EcoTWX fabric blend that is made from an average of 13 recycled plastic bottles per pair of Twisted X boots. twistedx.com | $289.95

I’ve broken quite a few fishing rods in my day – and it’s never a feeling that I’ll get used to.

Fortunately, over time, I have learned that investing in the proper equipment can help reduce these disappointments and keep my rod strong and secure.

Of course, choosing the strongest fishing rods for my day on the water certainly helps, too.

If you’re sick of breaking your favorite fishing rods, consider investing in one of these top picks. You’ll be able to finally enjoy a day out there on the water – with no accidental interruptions.

7 Strongest Fishing Rods: The Quick Guide

Here are 7 of the strongest fishing rods on the market today:

Last update on 2024-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

7 Unbreakable Fishing Rods

Here are the best durable fishing rods on the market today

St Croix Triumph Spinning Rod – Lightweight & Durable Option

The St. Croix Triumph is a smart choice if you’re looking for a spinning rod with just as much backbone as your favorite species of tough-fighting fish.

It’s made out of mid-modulus graphite fiber and is both lightweight and durable without compromising sensitivity.

Available in several actions and lengths (including as short as five and as long as seven and a half feet), this strong fishing rod has a Fuji DPS reel seat and hard aluminum-oxide guides.

Not only that, but it has a slow cure finish with two coats of Flex Coat so you don’t have to worry as much about rust or corrosion, either.

Pros:

• Lightweight and durable
• Assembles quickly
• Convenient to carry around

Cons:

• Soft carrying case doesn’t hold up to all damages

>>Check Latest Price on Amazon<<

Abu Garcia Vengeance – Power For Freshwater or Saltwater Fishing

The Abu Garcia Vengeance is another one of the top strongest fishing rods for you to consider.

Made out of strong 24-ton high modulus graphite, this rod has a lightweight and responsive feel without compromising on its durability.

It is also available in several lengths and actions, with options including six and a half, seven, and seven and a half feet.

It has stainless steel guides with titanium inserts and a high-density EVA foam handle, too.

Pros:

• A lightweight and balanced design
• Has a micro-click reel seat hood design for a better reel fit
• Can be used with all kinds of baits

Cons:

• Fast action might not be suitable for all settings

>>Check Latest Price on Amazon<<

Okuma Longitude Rod – Premium Durability and Comfort

The Okuma Longitude is made by one of my favorite brands when it comes to durability.

The Okuma Longitude has sensitive, yet durable, graphite composite blanks and other premium components like aluminum oxide guide inserts (which are braid-compatible!) and stainless steel guide frames.

You won’t have to worry about tangles or damages to this rod – it’s tough and solid for all-day casting. It is also available in multiple actions and lengths.

Whether you are in the market for a long rod that’s ideal for shoreline casting or a shorter rod that’s more compact, you’ll find it in the Okuma Longitude.

Pros:

• Corrosion-resistance makes it perfect for saltwater fishing
• Excellent grips make it easy to reel in at any distance
• Adjustable length makes it easy to handle

Cons:

• Not ideal for smaller fish

>>Check Latest Price on Amazon<<

Hurricane Mako 8′ 6 Pc Rod – Best Heavy Duty Telescopic Rod

Hurricane is a lesser-known brand that nonetheless offers a large selection of reels, rods, tackle, and other accessories that are perfect for saltwater anglers in particular.

This rod has a six-section fiberglass rod blank along with durable ceramic guides. Not only that, but it’s equipped with a comfortable EVA foam handle and a graphite reel seat.

This reel seat has stainless steel cushioned hoods to help fit your reel of choice with ease. This rod is comfortable to use and you don’t have to worry about dropping it – it can hold up to most damages with ease.

Pros:

• Ideal for offshore fishing and perfect for traveling
• Comfortable EVA handle helps you get a smooth, effortless cast
• Travels well in its compact 20-inch case

Cons:

• Collapsing rod design can cause accidental damages when you start reeling in

>>Check Latest Price on Amazon<<

Okuma Celilo Salmon/Steelhead – Tested for Reliability & Quality

The Okuma Celilo is the perfect strong rod for salmon and steelhead, but you can also use it for just about any other kind of fish.

It is equipped with guide inserts made out of tough aluminum oxide and has quality-grade cork grips as well.

Not only that, but it’s 10’6” length is perfect for line rated 15-50 lbs. This kind of versatility is really unparalleled!

Again, Okuma is one of the top brands to be aware of when you’re shopping for durable fishing tackle. You’ll love the strength and lightweight feel of this rod.

Pros:

• Made out of the best quality materials
• Responsive so you can feel every little bite
• Great if you are on a budget

Cons:

• Cork rear grips aren’t the most comfortable or sensitive

>>Check Latest Price on Amazon<<

Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Rod – Durable Construction

Ugly Stik is a classic when it comes to strong, tough fishing rods. The GX2 is one of Ugly Stik’s most popular rods, equipped with a Clear Tip that offers strength without sacrificing any of its sensitivity.

With its lightweight and durable EVA grips, this rod is incredibly comfortable to use. It has other “tough” features worth writing home about, too,

These include a graphite and fiberglass construction, one-piece stainless steel guides – oh, and let’s not forget the incredibly generous 7-year warranty!

Pros:

• Lightweight and strong
• Several weights available for fishing different species of varying sizes
• Attractive and eye-catching
• 7 Year Warranty

Cons:

• Not the best at fishing techniques that require a bit more finesse

>>Check Latest Price on Amazon<<

Fiblink Surf Casting Fishing Rod – Solid Carbon Fiber Construction

Last but not least is the Fiblink Surf Casting Rod. I thought it would only make sense to include at least one travel rod on this list, since you want to have a tough option for when you’re out on the road, too.

This rod is made with sensitive, solid carbon fiber construction that’s perfect if you want sensitivity without sacrificing your performance.

It has high-quality stainless steel guides so you can prevent friction and line tangles on your longest, smoothest casts.

Pros:

• Available in several sizes
• Minimizes friction for longer, smoother casts
• Comes with a non-slip rubber shrink tube handle for added durability

Cons:

• Many users complain about poor guide inserts

>>Check Latest Price on Amazon<<

Also Read: Best Fishing Rods for Beginners

Understanding What Makes a Rod Strong – or Weak

Before you start shopping for the perfect unbreakable fishing rod, it’s important to understand why fishing poles break in the first place.

There are a few things that can cause this.

The most common culprit is misuse or some kind of abuse. I’m sure I’m not the first person who has ever slammed a fishing rod in a car door or a truck tailgate.

Unfortunately, accidents happen – and while these kinds of mistakes would break even the toughest most durable rod, you should do your best to find a fishing rod that won’t shatter the minute you drop it on the ground.

Of course, manufacturing errors and defects can also be to blame when it comes to fragile fishing rods.

Sometimes a product is cheaply made with glues that come apart and materials that fracture under the slightest impact.

To find a strong fishing rod consider the selections above – but remember to always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to using your rod.

Most will suggest the maximum weights that a rod can handle. Once you cast above the recommended weight, there’s a good chance that your rod is going to break – and it’s all going to be on you.

Another common rod-breaking situation is something known as high-sticking. When you get your fishing rod in a vertical position, the parts of the road with the maximum stiffness will carry the load.

This is definitely not ideal.

Also Read: How To Choose The Right Fishing Rod Length

How To Choose a Durable and Strong Fishing Rod

Spinning vs. Baitcasting

Ultimately, it doesn’t matter whether you choose to go with a spinning or baitcasting rod. Both can be equally durable.

However, you will want to consider your comfort level with both, as a rod that you aren’t comfortable using will be more likely to break due to your novice mistakes.

A spinning rod is great for handling lightweight baits like soft plastics, while baitcasting will allow you to cast a bit further. If you’re a total newbie, I recommend starting with a spinning rod to help you get the hang of things first.

Brand

When you are looking for the strongest fishing rod, the brand doesn’t necessarily tell you anything about the strength and durability of the rod.

However, you’re best off going with a well-established brand for a couple of reasons.

There are two brands that are known for producing some of the most durable, unbreakable rods – Okuma and Ugly Stik.

Although other brands, of course, also make highly durable rods, these two companies offer some of the longest-lasting options among their competitors.

I would highly recommend checking them out – some of the strongest rods I’ve ever used were made by these two companies.

Okuma Fishing was established in 1987 and despite their relatively young age they make some of the best fishing tackle in the world. Based out of Taiwan, the company offers all kinds of fishing gear.

Ugly Stik, on the other hand, is a bit older – founded in 1897. This company also sells fishing equipment that is durable, high-quality, and adaptable.

Material

Your fishing rod can be made out of several materials. If you’re a beginner looking for a durable rod, I would not recommend a composite rod as it’s going to cost a bit more. The same goes for fiberglass.

Fiberglass is the most durable material you’ll find but it is heavier and can be a bit more challenging to use if you aren’t sure how to handle it.

Graphite is flexible and lightweight, and a better choice for people new to fishing.

Portability

Another common issue that causes fishing rods to break is improperly transporting them.

If you plan on traveling quite a bit with your fishing rod, you’ll want to invest in one that is designed for maximum portability.

That might mean a few different things.

In most cases, travel rods are telescopic or can be broken down into multiple pieces. That way, you can stash them into smaller spaces without having to worry about them getting broken.

Other travel rods come with cushioned carrying cases that can protect the rod from bumps and damages while in transit.

Whether the rod you choose is a travel rod or not, make sure you always transport it in the gear or packaging recommended by the manufacturer.

That way you won’t have to worry about it getting damaged in the process.

Other Rod Considerations

There are a few other features you’ll want to consider when you’re shopping for your new fishing rod.

These are pretty standard and shouldn’t play a major role in how durable and strong your rod is but may impact the rest of your purchase decision.

For example, all fishing rods are sold with various power ratings. These are usually listed as heavy, medium, and light, with stronger power ratings indicating that the rods can be used to pull in heavier fish.

Make sure the power of your rod matches up to the type of fish you will be going after.

The same goes for the action of the rod. A rod with a slow action will bend near the base, while one with a fast action will bend at the tip.

Don’t forget about the length of your rod, either. This will determine how far you can cast and how well you can fight fish.

A longer fishing rod can cast farther but a shorter rod will give you more accuracy and control.

See Also: What Fishing Reels Are Made in the USA?

Maximizing and Maintaining the Lifespan of Your Fishing Rods

Gentle Handling is Key

When landing a catch, always handle your fishing rod with care. Avoid lifting a fish by gripping the rod above the handle.

Remember, fishing rods are engineered to distribute pressure evenly along their length, so use the handle for support.

Mind the Angle

As you approach the boat with your catch, resist the urge to lift the rod tip skyward. This action can subject the rod’s tip, especially if it’s made of graphite, to excessive strain that could lead to breakage.

Instead, maintain a gradual and controlled angle.

Steer Clear of Hard Impacts

Prevent any unnecessary impacts on your fishing rod. Striking objects or surfaces can cause damage to the exterior layer of the rod material.

If your rod boasts high-modulus construction with a high-impact resin system, such impacts could potentially compromise the rod’s structural integrity.

Choose the Right Reel Size

Selecting the appropriate reel size for your fishing rod is crucial. An improperly matched reel can exert additional stress on the rod and its components.

Consult with an expert or the rod manufacturer to determine the best reel size for your specific rod.

Regular Maintenance Matters

To extend your fishing rod’s lifespan, make maintenance a routine. Inspect it for any signs of wear and tear, clean it regularly, and store it properly in a protective rod tube or cover to shield it from potential damage during transportation.

By following these expert tips, you’ll not only increase the longevity and strength of your fishing rods but also enhance your overall angling experience. Your trusty rods will be reliable companions on your fishing adventures for years to come.

Give These Durable Rods a Try

Although you’ll have good results when you try the fishing rods I’ve recommended above, keep in mind that, for many people, finding the strongest fishing rod comes down to a bit of trial and error.

You might have to work your way through a few fishing rods to find the option that’s best for you! Don’t get down on yourself if you break a couple of rods in the process – but please be careful.

Give some of these top strongest fishing rods a try, and hopefully, you’ll find one that can stand up to whatever you throw its way.

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In this article, we explore the misconceptions around crossbows and highlight the very real dangers they pose.

This follows the recent inquest into the death of Shane Gilmer who was “unlawfully killed” by a crossbow.

Together with Shane’s partner, Laura Sugden, we are supporting a campaign to call for stricter laws governing the purchase/acquisition/possession of crossbows. You can view the Parliamentary Petition here.

Our Inquest expert, Gemma Vine discuss some of the common questions being asked about crossbows and the campaign to impose stricter laws:

Q: Why should the Government spend money changing the law when incidents with a crossbow are so rare?

Gemma says: At the conclusion of Shane’s Inquest Ison Harrison carried out research into incidents in which someone had either been injured or killed as a result of a crossbow. Our research was brief and reliant upon media sources obtained via internet searches and therefore we anticipate that we have only just skimmed the surface of the problem.

Worryingly in the last 5 years alone, there have been 21 incidents reported in the media of someone being injured or killed by a crossbow and a further 19 incidents where someone was threatened or caught brandishing a crossbow in public. Only this weekend (1.30am on 9 May 2021) an incident occurred in Barnsley where a young man was arrested by armed police for brandishing a crossbow in public. It is our belief that there has been a demonstrable increase in incidents involving crossbows over recent years and therefore is no longer a rare event.

Q: Isn’t there an argument that the Government should then ban the sale of knives as they cause even more deaths and serious injury than a crossbow?

Gemma says: Unlike knives crossbows can be fired at a distance and still cause devastating damage to the person who has been shot. Crossbows are silent, lethal weapons, which have a similar effective range to a shotgun but offer the accuracy of a rifle. A crossbow bolt when fired can be so powerful that in Shane’s case it travelled through his arm, fracturing the bone, then into the side of his torso, fracturing a rib, slicing through 2 internal organs before embedding into his spine. The force was so powerful that once in his spine the pathologist said he had great difficulty in removing the bolt.

Furthermore, unlike knives which can have a day to day purpose like kitchen knives etc, we can see no routine reason why someone would need to own a crossbow. It is illegal to hunt with a crossbow and there are very few sporting competitions in the UK which allow the use of a crossbow. As a result there should be very few people in the UK who would legitimately need to possess a crossbow, and therefore it can be as easily regulated as those who possess a firearm.

Q: Why should crossbows be regulated the same way as a firearm – are they not different?

They are different in terms of construction, so they don’t fit within the definition of a firearm (as they don’t have a barrel) and the existing legislation would have to be adapted significantly to bring crossbows into line with firearms.

However, it is clear that in terms of lethality there is very little difference between the type of crossbow used to kill Shane and injure Laura and a shotgun or rifle.

It would be relatively straightforward to mirror the existing licensing regime for shotguns and firearms to apply to crossbows. The template for a proper licensing regime is there, within the 1968 Firearms Act and the Home Office Guide on Firearms. The 1968 Act regulates the sale, possession, transfer and use of firearms and ensures that only persons of sound mind, temperate habits, with adequate security and a good reason to use a firearm can obtain, transfer or possess them. Only those persons who are registered as firearms dealers can sell firearms and ammunition (to those who have a shotgun / firearms certificate).

Essentially, the police have the power to revoke certificates and seize weapons if they feel that there is a danger to public safety or the peace, or if they believe the certificate holder to be of unsound mind. Any aggrieved person who has their certificate revoked can appeal to a Crown Court for the firearms and certificates can be returned.

Not all firearms are regulated and less powerful crossbows could potentially escape regulation on the basis of not being ‘lethal’ in much the same way as air rifles. A simple method would be to regulate the sale and possession of crossbows with a draw weight of more than 1.4 kg (as per the Crossbow Act 1987) and to adopt a licensing regime only for more powerful (lethal) weapons.

Q: The government have said that there are already controls in place relating to the sale/purchase and possession of crossbows why do we need a change in the law?

At present the only legislation that is currently in place to specifically address the sale, purchase and ownership of a crossbow is the Crossbow Act 1987. This Act prohibits the sale, purchase and ownership of a crossbow to anyone under the age of 18. There is also legislation in place prohibiting the use of a crossbow to hunt and carrying a crossbow in public. This is however the extent of the legislation in place to prevent the injury or death of a person by using a crossbow.

At present there is nothing in theory to prevent a person suffering from severe mental health issues, with convictions for domestic violence, in the process of an acrimonious divorce and subject to a protection from harassment order from ordering a powerful crossbow online or by walking into a shop selling them. That may be an extreme example, but the dangers are blindingly obvious.

The Home Office makes reference to them having legislation in place to prosecute someone who uses a crossbow to carry out an assault on someone, however this legislation is reactive and not preventative. It is too little too late for the family of someone who has been killed by a crossbow or by the person who has received serious and devastating injuries as a result of one being used on them.

Q: What do you want to achieve by a change in law?

Gemma says: We do not want to ban the sale or purchase of a crossbow, nor do we want to prevent someone from owning one if they want it for a legitimate reason. What we want is for the sale and use of crossbows being regulated in line with the current regulation of firearms.

This would mean that anyone who would want to buy and own a crossbow would have to apply for a license and be assessed by their local police force. This would ensure that the police are aware of who possesses, uses and can access a crossbow in the UK and where they are kept in the property. It also means that if there were any concerns at all about someone’s mental health or behaviour the weapons could be seized for investigations to be carried out or their license revoked.

The indication given by the firearms officer at Shane’s Inquest was that this weapon was a danger to the police, requiring an armed response to an incident where it is known that one was being used. Furthermore, because crossbows are not currently regulated there was no way for the police to know how many crossbows Shane’s killer possessed, or where they were being kept in the property. This meant that they did not know whether when he left on foot he had more in his possession, which increased the risk to the ambulance service and the unarmed police in attending to Shane’s injuries when he was bleeding out in the property.

Q: Where can we find more information about crossbows and specifically Shane Gilmer’s case?

We have written a number of articles about the Shane Gilmer case here:

• Prevention of Future Deaths Report Released Following Shane Gilmer Inquest (May 2021)
• UK Campaign To Change The Law Governing Crossbows (April 2021)
• Jury Return Conclusion At The Inquest Into The Death Of Shane Adrian Gilmer (April 2021)
• Ison Harrison Help Family Look For Answers In Tragic Death of Shane Gilmer (April 2021)

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There was a time when I was exclusively in love with the 7.62x51mm for every rifle task.

According to the gun magazines at that time, the 5.56 was an abject failure in both Iraq and Afghanistan. So, I became convinced that the round was a poodle shooter.

Then, I joined the infantry and went to figure it out for myself.

Over my deployments, I carried weapons chambered in both 7.62 and 5.56 and got a good idea of how both worked and where they were successful.

Like most things in life, they both have their place and the roles in which they succeed. The idea that you have to choose one over the other is silly.

Own both.

From there, you can choose the right tool for the task at hand.

Before you go selecting one or the other, though, it helps to know the real difference between them. Where do they stand in a side-by-side contest and when should you use one over the other?

Lucky for you, that is what we are exploring today. We’ll touch on the history of each round, its purpose, and ultimately which is the right cartridge for the job.

7.62x51mm NATO

With so many 7.62 rounds, I have to distinguish this one as x51mm.

This .30 caliber projectile has long been a popular choice for both rifles and handguns. Developed as a replacement for the .30-06, it was standardized with our European allies through the newly created NATO.

The 7.62x51mm became the round de jour for infantry rifles and machine guns.

Though it was short-lived as an infantry rifle cartridge in the United States, it saw wider use across NATO.

It’s worth mentioning, this caliber still sees action in sniper rifles, designated marksman rifles, and machine guns within the U.S. military.

During the development of the 7.62x51mm, Winchester saw the commercial potential and developed the .308 Winchester.

The .308 Win. is, fundamentally, the same round but intended for the civilian market.

5.56x45mm NATO

You’re probably used to see 5.56x45mm NATO a lot more than 7.62x51mm NATO. There’s a reason for that.

The 5.56 was the successor to the 7.62 in terms of general military use. It became the infantry cartridge of choice during the Vietnam War.

Developed from the commercial .223 Remington, minor alterations were made during the 5.56’s development.

Shooter Beware: 5.56 should NEVER be fired in .223 marked rifles. (But .223 can be fired in 5.56 rifles.)

After its initial growing pains, the 5.56 cartridge proved to be incredibly successful.

The round serves to this day in the hands of most U.S. troops.

Paired with the vast majority of America’s favorite rifle — the AR-15 — 5.56 NATO has become one of the most popular rounds in the nation.

The Money

Before we dive into the performance, size, and uses of these calibers, let’s talk about the most common make or break for anything…

Money.

5.56 is the substantially cheaper route.

The cost of 5.56 versus 7.62 NATO is often a 50% difference in price per round. Rarely do you see 7.62 NATO below 40 cents per round.

Note: those are normal prices and we are far from normal at the time of this writing.

Whenever an event occurs that drives up demand, the first batch of rounds to hit sky-high prices are almost always 9mm and 5.56. The year 2020 is no exception with 5.56 NATO a rarity in the marketplace and crazy expensive when it does pop up.

At this point, 5.56 and 7.62 NATO are both more than a buck a round.

The Size Difference

You can easily visualize the size difference when you utilize the metric measurements to describe the rounds.

The 7.62x51mm is a much bigger round — not only in projectile size but also in weight and case length.

5.56 ammunition, on the other hand, is shorter in length and thus lighter to carry.

Let’s run some numbers.

A fully loaded 30-round AR-15 magazine weighs about 16-ounces, give or take. A fully loaded 20-round SCAR H magazine weighs 17.6-ounces.

That’s a substantial increase in weight with a decrease in ammo.

Ask any soldier, the average infantryman would rather carry more ammunition. More ammo equals more suppressive fire while bettering the ability to maneuver.

Let’s be honest here, the M16 saw some growing pains in its early days. That said, the M16’s adoption proved to be successful just based on the logistics of combat.

In my experience as a machine gunner carrying the M249 light machine gun, I was able to tote 1,000 rounds of linked 5.56 ammunition. The ammo was lightweight, as was the weapon.

When I took the 7.62 chambered M240 medium machine gun, I carried only 600 rounds and distributed 400 more throughout my squad.

Performance Matters

While 5.56 might be the lighter ammo weight, it’s also lighter in performance power.

The 7.62x51mm has some real punch behind it with the round retaining tremendous energy compared to the 5.56. The heavier duty 7.62 NATO is still used in the military due to the extra power and range it offers.

When comparing the 5.56 M885A1 load and the 7.62 NATO M80 round, we see the big differences upfront.

7.62 retains over 1,700 foot-pounds of energy at 500-yards versus 5.56 which hits 950 foot-pounds at 500-yards.

Pushing out to 1,000-yards, the 7.62 M80 loads retain over 1,000 foot-pounds of energy.

That extra power makes it a more capable long-range round.

Even at moderate ranges, it outperforms the 5.56 ballistically, penetrating deeper and transfering more energy.

Remember when we said the .308 Win is the civilian form of the 7.62 NATO?

.308 Win’s performance, like its 7.62 sibling, earned it high praise among hunters. Power paired with a short-action capable design and moderate recoil made the .308 Win family an excellent round to take down large game on hunts.

Though the 7.62 NATO load whips the 5.56 in range, power, and penetration, that all comes at a cost.

What is that, you ask?

Cartridge length and weight as well as muzzle rise and recoil.

When compared to the 5.56, it’s easy to see why the 5.56 is called a poodle shooter.

Overall, 5.56 is a much kinder, gentler experience.

There is something to be said for too much power and too much penetration.

A 7.62 NATO load is a bit much for home-defense when you start factoring in neighbors.

Miss a shot and that very powerful round will be flying very far and through lots of potential walls.

Where the 5.56 Dominates

The 5.56 NATO is one of the best infantry fighting calibers in the world.

It’s fought for decades and done an excellent job at its role as a general infantry cartridge.

Sure, it’s not perfect, but the cartridge has proven to be a reliable warfighting cartridge.

Best used within 300-yards, the 5.56 can be pushed out to 500-yards.

It’s a great close-quarters fighting cartridge and has very little risk of over-penetration should a miss occur.

Recoil and muzzle rise are naturally quite limited, which makes it an excellent round for shooters of all sizes.

Well-suited to the competitive market where speed rules, the 5.56 is a great companion in multi-gun events. The 5.56 AR-15 absolutely dominates the competition!

Competitions aside, 5.56/.223 Rem. can be used for close-range hunting on small to medium game.

Anything larger than a whitetail deer, though, should be taken with a larger, more potent cartridge.

The 5.56 and .223 Rem. are perfect for targets closer than 300-yards and for shooters looking for a lightweight, compact platform.

Where the 7.62x51mm Rules

The 7.62x51mm and .308 Win. are both powerful cartridges with long-range potential.

Perfect for Precision Rifle matches, these rounds, in general, work well in long-range shooting events.

They have their place in the heavy metal division of multi-gun matches as well.

If you’re looking to get into long-range shooting — and by that, we mean 500-yards plus — starting with the 7.62 NATO is one of the easiest routes to take.

Ammo is common, affordable, not to mention, lots of data, gear, and optics are produced with 7.62 NATO in mind.

.308 Win. is one of the most popular North American hunting cartridges. Used in bolt-actions and semi-auto guns with easily manageable magazine platforms, the cartridge can take deer, hogs, predators, and even bear with the right rifle.

When you need a little more range and a lot more power to achieve a task, the .308 Win and 7.62 NATO loads are perfect.

Favorite 5.56 and 7.62 NATO

Ok, now you know what’s what…so which brands do we prefer at Pew Pew Tactical?

Glad you asked.

Here is a collection of our favorite 5.56 and 7.62 NATO rounds. (Don’t blame us if they’re out of stock, though. Ammo shortage, and all…)

Conclusion

Let’s be real, 7.62 and 5.56 NATO are excellent fighting cartridges with long, battle-proven histories. 5.56 may be better suited for home defense and 7.62 rules long-range matches and big-game hunting, but both cartridges perform well in their respective roles.

So how do you as the shooter choose between the two? Identify the task, target, and goal. From there, you can choose a caliber and platform that fits those metrics.

Cartridge wars are always silly, and people rarely prove one popular cartridge is better than another. Different rounds have different purposes, and there is plenty of room at the table for everyone to sit.

Which is for you? 5.56? 7.62 NATO? Both? Let us know below which you prefer and why. Want more? Check out the Best 7.62x51mm Ammo and the Best AR-15 Ammo!