The caliber .308 Winchester (7.62 × 51 mm), often simply called "308", is considered the "little sister" of the more heavily loaded .30-06 Springfield (7.62 x 63 mm). It is one of the most widely used calibers worldwide and is also among the most popular hunting calibers in Germany.
The caliber is said to have high inherent precision, and the cartridge has a more pleasant recoil than .30-06 or the strongest caliber in the 7.62 mm family .300 Winchester Magnum. Therefore, it is regarded as one of the most precise calibers and is also very popular among sport shooters. The caliber is approved in Germany for all game animals and is recommended for medium-sized black and red game.
Compared to .30-06, the flight speed of the projectiles in the .308 caliber is about 30 m/s slower at the same load and weight, varying between approximately 770 m/s and 950 m/s depending on the bullet weight. As a result, the projectiles in .308 lose height slightly faster than in faster calibers. However, this is an aspect that only becomes significant at greater distances, starting around 150 meters.
Due to the widespread use of .308 Winchester, rifles from all manufacturers are available in this caliber, as well as the ammunition.
Its versatile applicability makes the caliber very suitable for young hunters.
Although the caliber has slightly less penetrating power than more heavily loaded calibers, shooters flinch less in anticipation of the bullet's bang and recoil. Additionally, this allows for quicker acquisition of another target in the scope after the shot and cycling the action for a precise shot. The comparatively low load of the .308 cartridge also results in a bullet bang that is easier to suppress. These three advantages make the caliber excellently suited for driven hunts.
For an overview of common calibers
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More exciting reports on the topic of caliber
Exciting, interesting, and informative reports on the topic can also be found with our premium partner, the hunting magazine Jagdzeit., for example, in the overview of all articles on the topic of caliber.
