Can You Shoot .308 in 7.62? Understanding the Cartridge Confusion
The question of whether you can shoot .308 Winchester ammunition in a 7.62x51mm NATO rifle is a common one, and the short answer is: generally, yes, but with crucial caveats. The cartridges are very similar, leading to confusion, but there are important differences that could damage your firearm or cause injury.
The Similarities: Why the Confusion?
Both .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges fire a bullet of approximately the same diameter (.308 inches). They also have similar case lengths, leading many to believe they are interchangeable. Visually, they look almost identical to the untrained eye.
The Key Differences: Why You Shouldn't Just Assume
While similar, there are subtle but significant differences that make interchangeable use risky:
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Chamber Dimensions: While close, the chamber dimensions of rifles designed for .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO are not identical. 7.62x51mm chambers are generally slightly larger to accommodate the higher pressures the military cartridge can generate. Firing .308 Winchester in a 7.62x51mm rifle is generally safe due to this larger chamber, but the opposite is not true.
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Pressure Differences: 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges are designed to withstand higher chamber pressures than .308 Winchester rounds. Firing a 7.62x51mm round in a .308 Winchester rifle could lead to catastrophic chamber pressure, resulting in a dangerous malfunction, damage to the firearm, or even injury. The extra pressure could cause the rifle to bulge, crack, or even explode.
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Case Head Dimensions: While minor, there are variations in the case head dimensions. While often negligible, these differences can impact how the cartridge sits and fires within the chamber.
The Safe Practice: Always Check Your Manual
The most crucial rule is to always consult your firearm's owner's manual. The manufacturer will explicitly state which ammunition is compatible with your specific rifle model. Ignoring this advice could lead to severe consequences.
Never assume interchangeability based on visual similarity alone. The safety of yourself and those around you depends on accurately identifying and using the correct ammunition for your firearm.
In Summary:
While .308 Winchester ammunition can often be safely fired in a 7.62x51mm NATO rifle due to the slightly larger chamber dimensions in the latter, it's crucial to always check your owner's manual. Conversely, never shoot 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition in a firearm designed for .308 Winchester. The risk of damage or injury is too significant. Accuracy and safety are paramount when handling firearms.
