308

.308 Winchester Ammunition Overview

Specifications

• Caliber: .308 Winchester
• Bullet Weight: 147-175 grains
• Bullet Type: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ), Soft Point (SP), Monolithic Copper Hollow Points, Polymer-Tipped, MatchKing, ELD-M, and more
• Bullet Velocity: 2,500 - 2,800 feet per second (fps)
• Muzzle Energy: 2,500 - 3,000 foot-pounds (ft-lbs)
• Effective Range: Up to 600 yards

Overview

The .308 Winchester, also known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, is a versatile and effective cartridge used in various shooting applications. It offers a relatively flat trajectory, making it suitable for accurate shots at different distances. When zeroed at 100 yards, the trajectory typically experiences a gradual drop, with a noticeable decrease in bullet impact beyond 300 yards.

Features

Versatility

The .308 Winchester is renowned for its ability to perform in multiple roles, from target shooting to hunting medium to large game. It is particularly effective for hunting deer, hogs, and other medium-sized game due to its high muzzle velocity and rapid expansion on impact.

Ballistic Performance

The cartridge's ballistic coefficients vary among different bullet designs and weights, affecting the trajectory and wind resistance. Heavier bullets, such as the 175-grain MatchKing, are ideal for long-range precision and have higher velocity at ranges exceeding 600 yards.

Terminal Performance

The .308 Winchester's muzzle energy is significant, providing strong terminal performance. Depending on the bullet weight and velocity, muzzle energy can range from 2,500 ft-lbs to over 3,000 ft-lbs. This energy ensures effective penetration and expansion, making it suitable for hunting and precision shooting.

Specifications

Bullet Weights

• 147-grain: Suitable for range use with full metal jacket bullets.
• 150-grain: Common for hunting medium-sized game with exposed lead soft points or monolithic copper hollow points.
• 168-grain: Ideal for hunting larger game with polymer-tipped or match-grade bullets.
• 175-grain: Best for long-range precision with match-grade bullets.

Muzzle Velocity

• 147-grain: 2,800 fps
• 150-grain: 2,800 fps
• 168-grain: 2,670 fps
• 175-grain: 2,600 fps

Muzzle Energy

• 147-grain: 2,800 ft-lbs
• 150-grain: 2,800 ft-lbs
• 168-grain: 2,670 ft-lbs
• 175-grain: 2,600 ft-lbs

Applications

• Hunting: Ideal for medium to large game, such as deer, hogs, and elk.
• Target Shooting: Suitable for various shooting ranges and competitions.
• Military and Law Enforcement: Utilized in sniper rifles and other precision weapons.

Call to Action

For those looking to leverage the power and versatility of the .308 Winchester, it is crucial to choose the right bullet weight and type for your specific application. Whether for hunting, target shooting, or military use, the .308 Winchester offers unmatched performance and reliability. Consult with professionals and thoroughly research the available bullet options to ensure optimal results for your shooting needs.