The short answer is: generally yes, but with crucial caveats. While both 7.62x51mm NATO and .308 Winchester cartridges share the same diameter bullet and are visually very similar, there are subtle but significant differences that can lead to serious issues if you're not careful. This article will explore these differences and help you understand the risks involved.
Understanding the Differences: 7.62x51 vs .308 Winchester
Both cartridges fire a .308 caliber bullet, but the key distinctions lie in their case dimensions and pressure tolerances.
Case Dimensions: A Microscopic Matter
The 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge case is slightly larger than the .308 Winchester case. This seemingly minor difference can have major consequences. A .308 Winchester chambered rifle may not fully chamber a 7.62x51mm round, leading to:
- Obstructions: The 7.62x51mm cartridge could become stuck in the chamber, potentially leading to a dangerous situation requiring a gunsmith to remove it.
- Overpressure: Even if it chambers, the larger 7.62x51mm case may experience higher chamber pressure in a .308 rifle. This overpressure can damage the rifle, leading to malfunctions, severe accuracy issues, or even catastrophic failure resulting in injury.
Pressure: A Force to Be Reckoned With
7.62x51mm NATO cartridges are designed to withstand significantly higher chamber pressures than .308 Winchester rounds. Firing a 7.62x51mm round in a rifle designed for .308 Winchester can easily exceed the rifle's safe pressure limits.
Manufacturer Recommendations: The Golden Rule
The most crucial piece of information is always the manufacturer's recommendation. Check your rifle's owner's manual. This document explicitly states whether the rifle is safe to use with 7.62x51mm ammunition. If the manual doesn't explicitly allow it, do not use 7.62x51mm ammunition.
Risks and Consequences: Why Caution is Paramount
Shooting the wrong ammunition in your rifle is incredibly dangerous. The potential consequences include:
- Rifle Damage: Significant damage to the rifle's barrel, bolt, action, or receiver can occur, rendering the firearm unusable or dangerous.
- Personal Injury: Overpressure and malfunctions can result in serious injuries or even death to the shooter or bystanders.
- Liability: Using ammunition not recommended by the manufacturer voids any warranties and can leave you legally liable for any damage or injury.
When it Might Be Safe: Specific Rifle Considerations
Some modern .308 rifles are manufactured with chambers that are designed to handle both .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges. These rifles are often explicitly marked as such in their owner's manual. However, even in these cases, exercising caution is paramount.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety
While some overlap exists, it's crucial to treat 7.62x51mm and .308 Winchester as distinct cartridges. Always refer to your rifle's owner's manual for explicit guidance on compatible ammunition. If there's any doubt, err on the side of caution and do not use 7.62x51mm ammunition in a rifle explicitly designed for .308 Winchester. Your safety and the longevity of your firearm depend on it. Remember, responsible gun ownership includes understanding and adhering to safety protocols.
