Will a 308 Shoot 7.62x51? Understanding Cartridge Compatibility
The short answer is: no, a .308 Winchester (7.62x51 NATO) chambered firearm should not shoot 7.62x51 ammunition, and vice versa. While seemingly interchangeable due to their similar names and close dimensions, key differences exist that can lead to catastrophic consequences if you attempt to mix and match.
This article delves deeper into the subtle yet crucial distinctions between these two cartridges, explaining why attempting to fire the wrong ammunition can be incredibly dangerous.
The Subtle Differences: Why it Matters
While both cartridges use a .308-inch diameter bullet and are relatively similar in length, the critical difference lies in the chamber dimensions and pressure. The 7.62x51 NATO cartridge has slightly larger chamber dimensions and generates higher chamber pressure than the .308 Winchester.
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Chamber Dimensions: The 7.62x51 NATO specification allows for greater tolerances in chamber dimensions. A .308 Winchester rifle's chamber might be slightly smaller, leading to a dangerous situation if a 7.62x51 round is fired. The bullet may not be properly seated, leading to an obstruction, or worse, the case could rupture under pressure.
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Pressure: The higher pressure generated by a 7.62x51 NATO round in a .308 Winchester chamber is a recipe for disaster. This excess pressure can cause catastrophic failure of the firearm, resulting in serious injury or death to the shooter and bystanders.
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Headspace: Headspace, the distance between the bolt face and the cartridge case head, is another critical factor. Inconsistent headspace can lead to dangerous pressure spikes. While some .308 Winchester rifles might seem to fire 7.62x51 ammo without immediate failure, the risk of a catastrophic malfunction remains high over time.
The Risks of Using the Wrong Ammunition
Attempting to fire the wrong ammunition in your firearm is extremely dangerous and carries potentially fatal consequences:
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Chamber Rupture: The most severe outcome is chamber rupture. This can result in serious injury or death from flying debris and the release of hot gases.
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Barrel Burst: Similar to chamber rupture, a barrel burst can cause severe injury or death.
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Bolt Damage: The bolt and other firearm components can be damaged due to the excessive pressure. This renders the firearm unusable and potentially dangerous to repair.
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Malfunction: Even if the firearm doesn't immediately fail, inconsistent pressures can lead to malfunctions like stovepipes, misfires, or other issues that impede safe firearm operation.
Identifying Your Cartridge: A Crucial Step
Before you even consider loading a round, always positively identify the cartridge caliber marked on your firearm. This information is usually clearly stamped on the receiver, barrel, or other components. Match this information with the cartridge you are using. Any doubt whatsoever means do not fire the weapon.
Conclusion: Safety First
The potential consequences of mixing .308 Winchester and 7.62x51 NATO ammunition are severe. Never compromise on safety. Always use the correct ammunition for your firearm. If you are uncertain about the specific cartridge your firearm uses, consult a qualified gunsmith or refer to the firearm's manual. Safe firearm handling practices are paramount to avoiding accidents and ensuring responsible gun ownership.
