Can You Shoot .308 Winchester in a 7.62 NATO? The Complex Answer
The short answer is: generally no, but it depends. While .308 Winchester and 7.62x51 NATO cartridges look very similar and share the same basic dimensions, there are crucial differences that can lead to serious consequences if you attempt to fire one in a rifle chambered for the other.
This seemingly simple question requires a nuanced understanding of ammunition specifications and firearm safety. Let's delve deeper:
Understanding the Differences
Both .308 Winchester and 7.62 NATO cartridges fire a .308 caliber bullet, but the subtle differences lie in their case dimensions and chamber specifications:
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Case Dimensions: While similar in overall length, the 7.62 NATO case is slightly larger and has a different shoulder angle. This seemingly minor difference can cause problems.
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Chamber Tolerances: Rifle chambers are machined to specific tolerances. A .308 Winchester chamber is designed to accept the slightly smaller .308 Winchester case. A 7.62 NATO chamber is designed for the slightly larger 7.62 NATO case, and may not properly grip or fully support a .308 Winchester round.
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Pressure: 7.62 NATO cartridges are typically loaded to higher pressures than .308 Winchester rounds. Firing a 7.62 NATO round in a .308 Winchester chamber can cause catastrophic chamber failure. Conversely, while less likely to cause immediate damage, firing a .308 Winchester round in a 7.62 NATO chamber might result in poor accuracy or, over time, damage to the chamber due to increased headspace.
The Risks of Mixing Cartridges
Attempting to mix these cartridges carries significant risks:
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Chamber Rupture: This is the most dangerous scenario. The excessive pressure from a 7.62 NATO round in a .308 Winchester chamber can cause the chamber to fail, leading to serious injury or death.
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Bolt Damage: Even without chamber rupture, the higher pressure of a 7.62 NATO round can damage the bolt, locking lugs or other firearm components.
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Poor Accuracy: While less dangerous, firing .308 Winchester ammunition in a 7.62 NATO chamber could result in consistently inaccurate shooting due to improper headspacing.
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Damage to the Rifle's chamber: Over time, repeatedly firing .308 Winchester rounds in a 7.62 NATO chamber may cause the chamber to wear down and potentially lose its integrity.
The Verdict: Safety First
While some older rifles chambered in 7.62 NATO might be able to handle .308 Winchester ammunition, it’s strongly discouraged. The potential risks outweigh any perceived benefits. Always refer to your firearm's owner's manual for specific ammunition recommendations. Never fire a cartridge in a rifle that is not specifically rated for that type of ammunition.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional firearm safety instruction. Always practice safe gun handling techniques. If you have any doubts, consult a qualified gunsmith or firearms expert.
