Keeping the different calibers to a minimum has helped me over the years to keep my inventory manageable..... although I dream all the time of many, many more!
I tried to consolidate my ammunition mostly for shtf preparedness. I found out two or three years ago that I should stop buying guns and start buying ammunition. I have firearms to meet a broad spectrum of needs, but I guess if it were survival time I couldnt pack 2,000 rounds of 7.62x39 around as quickly as 22lr. I have 7 calibers now.
If It were a protecting my spot situation all would be fine. If it were a grab a bug out bag, and keep my family alive, I dont know. 22lr definately. Pistols probably, 12ga definately, 8mm ni way, 7.62 x39 over 223 for myself in the woods with no ammenities. If I could only pack one item it would be .22lr and 4,000 rounds. Also a bolt action Savage MKII not a 10/22
I am not real sure how many calibers I own but I do feel like I am in the minority here.
Am I the only one that doesnt normally buy mainstream calibers? I love working up loads and hunting with off the wall stuff. You will see me out coyote hunting with a .17 centerfire or a .219 wasp more often than a .223.
I understand why people like to prepare for SHTF with NATO calibers but why stop there? It is alot of fun shoot and work on load development with rifles that no one else at the range is playing with.
I digress maybe it is better for me that most like to stick with the "normal" stuff.
Shotguns
410 x 2
20 x 2
12 x 4
10 x 1 Pistols
22short x 1
22lr x 3
32 x 1
38 x 1
45acp x 1
9mm 2
45lc x 2 Rifles
22lr x 6
223 x 4
44 x 2
45lc x 4
401 x 2
351 x 8
762x54 x 1
30.06 x 7
308 x 1
45acp x 2 (fullautos)
303 x 1
9mm x 1 (fullauto)