Will a .308 Rifle Shoot 7.62x51mm Ammo? The Critical Differences and Potential Dangers
The short answer is: generally no, and it's extremely dangerous to try. While .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm NATO) and 7.62x51mm NATO appear almost identical, subtle but crucial differences exist that can lead to catastrophic failure if you attempt to mix and match ammunition.
This article will delve into the specifics of these differences and explain why firing 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition in a .308 Winchester rifle is a recipe for disaster.
Understanding the Seemingly Minor Differences
Both .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges share a similar bullet diameter (.308 inch) and overall length. However, the critical distinctions lie in:
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Case Head Dimensions: While seemingly minor, differences in the case head dimensions (the part of the cartridge case that sits against the bolt face) are significant. 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges are generally manufactured to slightly tighter tolerances, meaning they can exert higher pressures within a chamber designed for the less demanding .308 Winchester.
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Chamber Dimensions: .308 Winchester chambers are designed and manufactured to specific tolerances to accommodate the pressures generated by .308 Winchester ammunition. Using 7.62x51mm NATO ammo in a .308 Winchester chamber can result in over-pressurization, causing a catastrophic chamber rupture or other serious damage.
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Case Pressure: 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition typically operates at higher pressure than .308 Winchester ammo. This higher pressure, when combined with a chamber not designed to handle it, drastically increases the risk of a dangerous malfunction.
The Risks of Mixing Ammunition
Attempting to fire 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition in a rifle chambered for .308 Winchester can result in several serious consequences:
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Chamber Rupture: This is the most serious risk. The excessive pressure generated by the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge can cause the rifle's chamber to rupture, leading to severe injury or death to the shooter and bystanders.
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Bolt Face Damage: High pressure can also damage the bolt face of the rifle, rendering the firearm unusable and potentially causing serious injury.
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Barrel Damage: Over-pressurization can also lead to barrel deformation or even catastrophic barrel failure, similar to chamber rupture.
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Malfunctions: Even if a catastrophic failure doesn't immediately occur, high pressure may lead to other malfunctions such as misfires, jams, or failures to eject spent cartridges.
Conclusion: Safety First
While the cartridges appear similar, the subtle differences in tolerances and pressure characteristics between .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO make them incompatible. Never attempt to fire 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition in a rifle chambered for .308 Winchester. Doing so risks serious injury or death. Always double-check your ammunition and ensure it matches the specifications of your firearm. If you have any doubts, consult a qualified gunsmith or firearms expert.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always handle firearms safely and responsibly. Incorrect ammunition usage can result in severe injury or death.
