Winchester presented the .308 caliber for the Model 70 rifle in 1952. This caliber, which has its origins in the military 7.62×51 mm NATO, is deeply rooted in the hunting industry. It is one of the preferred calibers for big game hunting in North America and Europe.

An Overview

The .308 Winchester is characterized by its accuracy and flat trajectory. Typically, it has bullet weights between 150 and 180 grains and achieves muzzle velocities of over 900 m/s. Its excellent ballistics allow hunters to shoot at long distances even under challenging conditions such as strong winds. Many hunting rifles are manufactured for the .308 caliber. Among the most prominent models are the Remington 700, the Winchester Model 70, and the Ruger M77. Their precision and flat trajectory make them ideal for accurate shooting over medium distances.

Classification Among Other Calibers

The .308 Winchester 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 accuracy, and the cartridge has a more pleasant recoil than the .30-06 or the strongest caliber of 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.

Hunting Use

The .308 Winchester caliber covers a wide range of hunting activities. It is excellent for hunting medium-sized game species, including red deer, mouflon, and wild boar, as well as roe deer and predators. It provides the necessary precision and stopping power to effectively and quickly take down these animals.

Overall, the .308 caliber proves to be a robust and reliable hunting caliber.

.308 Winchester in Application

The .308 Winchester shines through its versatility and extensive application possibilities. It offers the right load for every requirement, whether for roe deer hunting or for taking down wild boars, red deer, and fallow deer. It is suitable for various hunting situations, from predator hunting to winter driven hunts. In Germany, it is particularly popular, not least because of its suitability for use in short barrels and with suppressors, which further increases its popularity.

Brief Overview of Specifications

Caliber: 7.62 × 51 mm 
Case shape: Bottle-necked, rimless with extractor groove Case shoulder diameter: 11.53 mm Initial velocity: 850–900 m/s Maximum gas pressure: 4150 Bar Bullet energy: 4000 J