What is a.308 Gun?
The.308 caliber is a popular rifle cartridge that has gained widespread acceptance among hunters, target shooters, and military personnel. In this article, we will delve into the history, characteristics, and applications of the.308 caliber, as well as provide an overview of the rifles that chamber this cartridge.
What is the.308 Caliber?
The.308 Winchester, also known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, is a rimless, bottlenecked rifle cartridge designed for medium-range engagements. The.308 caliber was developed in the 1950s by Winchester as a successor to the.30-06 Springfield cartridge. The.308 has become a standard caliber for hunting and target shooting, with a wide range of uses, from small game to large game, and even for military and law enforcement applications.
Cartridge Characteristics
Here are some key characteristics of the.308 caliber:
• Muzzle Energy: 2,400-2,700 ft-lbs (depending on bullet weight and velocity)
• Muzzle Velocity: 2,700-2,900 ft/s (depending on bullet weight and barrel length)
• Bullet Weight: Available in a range of weights, from 110-220 grains (7.1-14.3 grams)
• Primer Type: Centerfire, with a Boxer or Berdan primer
Rifle Applications
The.308 caliber is used in a variety of rifles, including:
- Hunting Rifles: Designed for hunting, these rifles are often used for medium to large game, such as deer, elk, and bear.
- Target Rifles: Built for precision, these rifles are used for target shooting, competitive shooting, and tactical applications.
- Sniper Rifles: Designed for military and law enforcement use, these rifles are used for long-range engagements, surveillance, and precision target shooting.
- Sporting Rifles: Designed for recreational shooting, these rifles are often used for plinking, varmint hunting, and target shooting.
Rifle Characteristics
Here are some key characteristics to consider when selecting a.308 caliber rifle:
- Barrel Length: 16-24 inches (40-61 cm), depending on intended use and barrel twist
- Twist Rate: 1:10, 1:12, or 1:16 inches (2.5-4.0-5.0 cm) per turn, depending on bullet weight and intended use
- Action: Bolt-action, semi-automatic, or lever-action, depending on personal preference and intended use
- Stock: Wooden, fiberglass, or synthetic, depending on personal preference and intended use
Bullet Options
The.308 caliber offers a wide range of bullet options, including:
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Designed for target shooting and plinking, these bullets are jacketed with a thin layer of copper or other metal.
- Soft Point: Designed for hunting, these bullets are jacketed with a soft, lead-filled core for expanded expansion on impact.
- Hollow Point: Designed for hunting, these bullets have a hollow point to improve expansion and penetration.
- Barnes Triple-Shock X: A popular choice for hunting, these bullets feature a three-piece core for improved expansion and penetration.
Table:.308 Caliber Ballistics
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (ft/s) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) | Range (yds) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 2,600 | 2,200 | 400-600 |
| 168 | 2,400 | 2,100 | 300-500 |
| 175 | 2,300 | 2,000 | 200-400 |
| 200 | 2,200 | 1,900 | 150-300 |
Conclusion
The.308 caliber is a versatile and effective cartridge that offers a range of applications, from hunting and target shooting to military and law enforcement use. With its high muzzle energy and moderate velocity, the.308 caliber is capable of delivering precise and reliable performance in a variety of situations. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a new shooter, the.308 caliber is an excellent choice for any rifle or cartridge enthusiast.
