The question, "Can you shoot .308 through a 7.62?" is a common one, particularly among firearms enthusiasts. The simple answer is: it depends. While the .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges seem very similar—and are often used interchangeably—there are crucial differences that can lead to serious consequences if you're not careful. This article will delve into the specifics of these calibers, their compatibility, and the potential dangers of mismatched ammunition.
Understanding the Calibers: .308 Winchester vs. 7.62x51mm NATO
Both the .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges fire a bullet of roughly the same diameter (.308 inches). However, the critical distinction lies in their case dimensions and chamber pressures.
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.308 Winchester: This is a commercially developed cartridge known for its accuracy and relatively lower pressure. It's widely used for hunting, target shooting, and even some military applications.
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7.62x51mm NATO: This is a military cartridge designed for robustness and reliability under harsh conditions. It generally operates at a higher pressure than the .308 Winchester.
The subtle differences in case dimensions mean that a .308 Winchester round might fit into a 7.62x51mm chamber, but a 7.62x51mm round will almost certainly not fit into a .308 Winchester chamber.
Case Dimensions: A Closer Look
The following table illustrates the key dimensional differences, although these can vary slightly between manufacturers:
| Feature | .308 Winchester | 7.62x51mm NATO |
|---|---|---|
| Case Length | 2.01 inches (51.0 mm) | 2.01 inches (51.0 mm) |
| Case Diameter | Slightly smaller | Slightly larger |
| Shoulder Angle | Slightly different | Slightly different |
While the case lengths appear identical, the subtle variations in diameter and shoulder angle are significant. The higher pressure of the 7.62x51mm NATO round in a .308 Winchester chamber could lead to catastrophic failure.
The Dangers of Mismatched Ammunition
Shooting the wrong ammunition in a firearm is incredibly dangerous and can result in:
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Chamber pressure exceeding design limits: This is the most serious risk. The higher pressure of the 7.62x51mm NATO round can cause the rifle to burst, resulting in serious injury or death to the shooter and those nearby.
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Damage to the firearm: Excessive pressure can damage the barrel, bolt, receiver, and other components of the firearm, rendering it unusable and potentially hazardous.
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Malfunctions: Even if the round doesn't cause catastrophic failure, the mismatched ammunition might lead to malfunctions like failure to extract or feed, potentially jamming the weapon.
Case Study: A Real-World Example
While precise data on incidents is difficult to obtain, numerous anecdotal accounts exist online describing firearms damaged or destroyed by using mismatched ammunition. These cases highlight the severe consequences of ignoring the critical differences between these calibers.
So, Can You Shoot .308 Through a 7.62?
The short answer remains: generally, yes, but with significant caveats. Many 7.62x51mm NATO rifles can fire .308 Winchester ammunition safely due to the slightly larger chamber dimensions of the 7.62x51mm. However, this is not universally true, and doing so comes with substantial risk. Manufacturers often state that while it may function, it isn't recommended.
Always check your firearm's manual to confirm the manufacturer's explicit recommendations regarding ammunition compatibility. Ignoring this advice could lead to severe consequences. When in doubt, never attempt to fire ammunition not specifically listed as compatible.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety
While the similarities between .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO can be tempting to overlook, the potential dangers of mismatched ammunition are too significant to ignore. Always prioritize safety by using only the ammunition specifically recommended by the firearm's manufacturer. This simple precaution can prevent serious injury or even death.