Is .308 ammo the same as 7.62×39?

Is.308 Ammo the Same as 7.62×39?

As the popularity of firearms continues to grow, so does the number of enthusiasts searching for answers about various aspects of shooting, including ammunition. One of the most commonly asked questions is whether.308 and 7.62×39 calibers are interchangeable. While both rounds share similarities, they are not exactly the same.

The Basics of Both Rounds

.308 Winchester (.308 Win)

Developed in the late 1950s by Remington Arms Company,.308 Winchester is a hunting cartridge designed for hunting deer-sized game. Its caliber measures.308 inches, and it has a moderate-recoiling reputation, making it suitable for smaller calibers and manageable for shooters..308 Winchester has a cartridge overall length of 2.81 inches, and it operates at a relatively moderate velocity, typically around 2,700-3,000 feet per second.

7.62×39 mm

First developed in the Soviet Union, 7.62×39 mm is a caliber commonly used in Kalashnikov-patterned assault rifles and other weapons. The x39 suffix denotes the bullet diameter in millimeters and the width of the rim in inches, respectively. 7.62×39 mm rounds are characterized by their short case length, ranging from 39.9-40.2mm. These cartridges operate at significantly lower velocities than.308 Win, typically ranging between 2,300-2,600 feet per second.

Main Differences between.308 Win and 7.62×39 mm

Differences in Design and Intended Use

• Pressure: The main difference in pressure is significant..308 Winchester is designed to withstand much higher pressures, specifically 44,500 psi, which allows it to deliver a higher velocity than 7.62×39 mm. 7.62×39 mm operates at pressures between 30,000-40,000 psi.
• Original Intended Use: While both cartridges share a military heritage, their primary design purposes are different..308 Winchester is a hunting cartridge intended for larger game, while 7.62×39 mm is a battle-grade cartridge intended for stopping opponents.
• Velocity and Kinetic Energy: 7.62×39 mm operates at significantly lower velocities, resulting in reduced kinetic energy compared to.308 Winchester.

Key Takeaways: Why You Can’t Replace.308 with 7.62×39 mm and Vice Versa

• SAFETY: It’s essential to remember that chambering the wrong ammunition can cause significant damage to the weapon and potentially result in personal harm. Only load the type of ammunition designated for your firearm to maintain optimal safety.
• Calibration: Your weapon may be calibrated specifically for either.308 or 7.62×39 mm cartridges. Substituting the wrong round could result in reduced accuracy or performance issues.
• Propellant and Primiing:.308 Win and 7.62×39 mm propellant loads differ, requiring adjustment in primer type, amount, or type for the chosen round.

Can I use.308 ammunition in a 7.62×39 mm gun or vice versa?

• General Disclaimer: Please consult the specific owner’s manual for your weapon for specific guidelines on accepted cartridge types. If the information is not provided, proceed with extreme caution.

If you still insist on testing:

• .308 Winchester in 7.62×39 mm Chamber:

  • Your.308 ammunition may still chamber in the 7.62×39 mm bolt face.
  • Keep in mind that there will be an increased pressure rise and the risk of extraction problems or damage.
  • You may compromise your firearm’s accuracy.

• 7.62×39 mm in.308 Winchester Chamber:

  • Chances of smooth chambering are very low, and you risk significant damage.
  • Don’t risk damaging your gun; stick to authorized loads for optimal performance and safety.

In conclusion, .308 Winchester and 7.62×39 mm cartridges may seem similar, but their fundamental design, operation pressure, and intended use render them distinct. Failing to match the designated round with the chamber can cause performance issues, reduce accuracy, and potentially put safety at risk. To enjoy a stress-free and efficient shooting experience, choose the right caliber for your specific weapon, and only chamber authorized loads.