Difference between 308 and 7.62×51
The firearms industry has seen a plethora of calibers and rounds over the years, each designed to serve specific purposes. Among the most popular and widely used rounds are the 308 Winchester and the 7.62×51 NATO. Despite their similar nomenclature, there are several key differences between these two rounds that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will explore the differences between the 308 and the 7.62×51, highlighting their design, performance, and intended use.
Firstly, the 308 Winchester is a rimless bottlenecked cartridge developed by Winchester Repeating Arms Company in 1952. It was originally designed for use in the Winchester Model 70 rifle, a popular hunting firearm. On the other hand, the 7.62×51 NATO is a bottlenecked cartridge designed by the Belgian company Fabrique Nationale Herstal (FN) in the late 1940s. It was adopted by NATO in 1953 and has since become the standard cartridge for many military and police firearms.
One of the primary differences between the 308 and the 7.62×51 is their case design. The 308 Winchester has a shorter case with a smaller diameter, while the 7.62×51 NATO has a longer case with a larger diameter. This difference in case design affects the overall length and capacity of the magazines for each round. Generally, firearms chambered for the 308 Winchester can hold more rounds in their magazines compared to those chambered for the 7.62×51 NATO.
Another significant difference is the bullet weight and velocity. The 308 Winchester typically uses lighter bullets, ranging from 150 to 175 grains, while the 7.62×51 NATO is designed for heavier bullets, typically ranging from 150 to 220 grains. The heavier bullets in the 7.62×51 NATO contribute to its greater energy and penetration capabilities, making it more suitable for hunting larger game and military applications.
In terms of performance, the 308 Winchester is known for its accuracy and flat trajectory, making it an excellent choice for long-range shooting and hunting. The 7.62×51 NATO, on the other hand, offers higher energy and better terminal ballistics, which are crucial for engaging targets at longer distances and in combat situations.
Despite these differences, both rounds share some similarities. They are both bottlenecked cartridges, which means they have a narrow neck that helps in achieving better accuracy and consistency. Additionally, both rounds are available in various bullet types, including full metal jacket (FMJ), soft point (SP), and hollow point (HP), catering to different shooting needs.
In conclusion, the 308 Winchester and the 7.62×51 NATO are two popular rounds with distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. While the 308 Winchester is favored for its accuracy and versatility in hunting and long-range shooting, the 7.62×51 NATO excels in military and law enforcement scenarios where higher energy and penetration are required. Understanding the differences between these rounds can help shooters make informed decisions when selecting the right firearm and ammunition for their specific needs.
