Caliber .308 Winchester: Ballistics, Use in Hunting and Firearms
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 widespread calibers worldwide and is also among the most popular hunting calibers in Germany.
The caliber is known for high inherent accuracy, and the cartridge has a more pleasant recoil than .30-06 or the strongest caliber in the 7.62 mm family, the .300 Winchester Magnum. Therefore, it is considered one of the most precise calibers and is also very popular with sport shooters. The caliber is approved in Germany for all big game and is recommended up to medium-sized black and red game.
Compared to .30-06, the projectile velocity of 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 bullet weight. As a result, bullets in .308 lose height somewhat faster than in faster calibers. However, this is an aspect that only becomes significant at longer distances of about 150 meters and beyond.
Due to the widespread use of .308 Winchester, rifles from all manufacturers are available in this caliber, as is the ammunition.
Its versatility makes the caliber very suitable for young hunters.
Although the caliber has slightly less penetration power than more heavily loaded calibers, shooters are less hesitant in anticipation of the bullet crack and recoil. Additionally, after the shot and cycling the action, another target can be quickly acquired in the scope for a precise follow-up shot. The comparatively low load of the .308 cartridge also results in a muzzle report that is easier to suppress. These three advantages make the caliber excellently suited for driven hunts.
More exciting reports on the topic of caliber
Exciting, interesting and informative reports on the topic can also be found at our premium partner, the hunting magazine Jagdzeit. , for example in the overview of all articles about the topic of caliber.
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