Will a 308 Shoot 7.62x51? Understanding Cartridge Compatibility
The short answer is: no, a .308 Winchester (7.62x51 NATO) chambered firearm should not shoot 7.62x51 NATO ammunition. While the names and calibers are similar, and the bullets themselves might appear visually identical, there are crucial differences that make this a dangerous practice. Let's break down why.
The Subtle but Significant Differences
While both .308 Winchester and 7.62x51 NATO cartridges use a .308 caliber bullet, the critical distinctions lie in the cartridge case dimensions:
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Case dimensions: The 7.62x51 NATO cartridge case is slightly larger than the .308 Winchester case. This seemingly minor difference can lead to catastrophic results. A .308 Winchester chamber is designed to handle the smaller case, but a 7.62x51 NATO round can be forced into the chamber, leading to dangerously high chamber pressures.
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Pressure: 7.62x51 NATO ammunition is designed to operate at higher chamber pressures than .308 Winchester. Firing a 7.62x51 round in a .308 Winchester rifle can cause the rifle to burst, resulting in severe injury or death to the shooter and those nearby. The rifle itself could be irreparably damaged.
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Headspace: Headspace refers to the distance between the bolt face and the cartridge case head. The difference in case dimensions between these cartridges means the headspace might not be correctly aligned, again leading to dangerous pressure buildup.
The Risks of Mixing Cartridges
Attempting to fire 7.62x51 NATO ammunition in a .308 Winchester firearm is extremely dangerous and should never be done. The potential consequences include:
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Rifle Damage: The rifle could burst or malfunction severely, rendering it unusable.
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Serious Injury or Death: The high pressures generated by the mismatch could cause the rifle to explode, leading to serious injury or death to the shooter and those in the vicinity.
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Liability: Using the wrong ammunition is incredibly reckless and could lead to significant legal liability in case of accidents.
How to Avoid Accidents
Always double-check your ammunition before loading and firing any firearm. Pay close attention to the cartridge markings. If you are unsure about the compatibility of your ammunition and firearm, consult a qualified firearms expert or refer to your firearm's owner's manual.
Conclusion
While the names might sound similar, and the bullets may look alike, .308 Winchester and 7.62x51 NATO cartridges are not interchangeable. Firing 7.62x51 NATO in a .308 Winchester rifle is exceedingly dangerous and could have fatal consequences. Always prioritize safety and handle firearms responsibly.
