Quick Tip: 7.62x51 NATO vs .308 Winchester - What's the Diff?

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 มี.ค. 2020
  • Our Brownells Firearm Support Technician with the skinny, Caleb Savant, is back to talk about two popular rifle cartridges: .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO. Most shooters know that both rounds have the same external dimensions. In fact, the military 7.62x51 was developed from the civilian .308 Winchester. So... Can they be used interchangeably? The 7.62x51 cartridge can be fired from any rifle chambered in .308 Winchester because the 7.62 develops lower pressure than the .308, but... DO NOT fire the higher-pressure .308 Win in a 7.62 NATO rifle. The 7.62x51 chamber is slightly longer, and the cartridge's case is a bit thicker, so it will "flow" and expand into the extra space. With its thinner brass, the .308 case can't flow and might rupture. NOTE: Some newer rifles with 7.62x51 NATO chambers ARE made to handle .308 Win ammo. Check the owner's manual or contact your rifle's manufacturer to find out for sure.
    A binge-watcher’s dream! Plenty more Brownells videos at www.brownellsvideos.com
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ความคิดเห็น • 617

  • @rocdaneweracap
    @rocdaneweracap 4 ปีที่แล้ว +660

    This dude is like Mr. Rodgers for the gun community.

    • @CalebSavant
      @CalebSavant 4 ปีที่แล้ว +85

      I'll take it!

    • @3tvet
      @3tvet 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      But Savants an actual combat vet, unlike the myth behind our old friend Mr. Rogers.

    • @3tvet
      @3tvet 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@CalebSavant it took me a sec to recognize you brother, you look alot older now. Its B.Price. I'm glad to see you doing well. Keep the videos coming.

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +99

      Welcome to Caleb Savant's neighborhood...

    • @CalebSavant
      @CalebSavant 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@3tvet Thanks! Good to hear from you! Take care brother!

  • @johncashwell1024
    @johncashwell1024 4 ปีที่แล้ว +395

    The oddity is that the general rule for 7.62x51 is the opposite of 5.56x45. 7.62 has a lower pressure than .308 Winchester and 5.56 has a higher pressure than .223 Remington. Great video Brownell's! Obviously, the pressure I am referring to here is the SAAMI & CIP Specifications for maximum pressure in 223 Remington & 308 Winchester versus the NATO Specifications for maximum pressures in 5.56x45mm NATO & 7.62x51mm NATO. And that is comparing apples to apples, i.e., CUP or PSI measured in the same locations. Loadings from different manufacturers vary wildly and are irrelevant to the discussion of max pressure specifications allowed by NATO, CIP or SAAMI.

    • @foxsquirrel3038
      @foxsquirrel3038 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      John Cashwell it doesnt matter.

    • @dolphincliffs8864
      @dolphincliffs8864 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Garand ammo is a lower pressure loading as well compared to commercial .30-'06

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      No. They have the same pressure. You can't say one has higher or lower pressure because there is a huge variation in the different loads. There are .308 loads that are higher than any military load, and ones that are lower. When the two cases are loaded with the same powder and head they have the same pressure. Same with the .223 and 5.56. Same case, same head, same powder, same pressure. There are several different military loads for each round, but hundreds of commercial loads for each. And the misconception about .223 and 5.56 pressure comes from the testing method. The military uses a different method to test pressure than saami. The difference is where the pressure is measured and is results in a higher reading. If the two cartridges are measured in the same test setup the results are identical. .223 can be fired from 5.56 and 5.56 can be fired from .223. Same with .308 and 7.62.
      I honestly dont know why this is perpetuated. I have shot all these interchangeably thousands and thousands of times

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@dolphincliffs8864 compared to what commercial load? There are hundreds of commercual 30-06 loads. Some higher than the old mil standard some lower. When you are dealing with the kind of variety a 30-06 has or the .308 saying, "the commercial load" is meaningless. Especially with .308. There are more variations of .308 than probably any other cartridge in history.

    • @johncashwell1024
      @johncashwell1024 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Note: I said "General Rule" which applies to the "Chamber Design". Not the hundreds of different loads floating around out there.

  • @masterof1
    @masterof1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +152

    I thought it would be the other way around, well you learn something new every day. If you're willing to listen and not just hear.

    • @daverem870
      @daverem870 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thatoneguy overthere always time back your service rifle loads , you can warp an op rod of the M1A

    • @Laotzu.Goldbug
      @Laotzu.Goldbug 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Yep. It's basically the _opposite_ of the situation with .223 and 5.56

    • @adamc6371
      @adamc6371 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      This is pretty much the exception to the rule that military cartridges are hotter than civilian counterparts.

    • @moritamikamikara3879
      @moritamikamikara3879 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I can explain the reasoning behind this, and it all comes down to recoil
      After WWII there was a commission formed that basically said they wanted NATO to adopt fully automatic weapons with detachable box magazines and an intermediate rifle calibre. But some American with a hard-on for the M14 demanded they use that, so 7.62 was created for that gun. But because the .308 was a very powerful round, automatic fire was pointless because the gun became uncontrollable, so lower the power of the round to make it more serviceable.
      Didn't fucking work lmao.

    • @masterof1
      @masterof1 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@moritamikamikara3879 thanks for the info.👍

  • @AutoCrete
    @AutoCrete 4 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    Short, sweet and to the point! Thank you Caleb for not droning on for 20 minutes like so many 'experts' do.

    • @PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool
      @PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool ปีที่แล้ว

      “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. -John 3:16

    • @AutoCrete
      @AutoCrete ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool Religion should be treated like genitals. It's fine to have and fine to be proud of. If someone asks about it feel free to share but stuffing it in everyone’s face even when uninvited just isn't the right thing to do.

    • @PierreKerbage
      @PierreKerbage 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@AutoCrete Amen! Wait... Wait...

    • @AutoCrete
      @AutoCrete 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @@PierreKerbage Unfortunately, seldom do you have to wait. They just can't resist 'spreading the word'. If you disagree they become extremely unhappy and even aggressive. Then the gossip starts and even reminding them that lying betrays one of their 'commandments' makes it worse.

    • @RaymondTusk74
      @RaymondTusk74 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@AutoCreteYou could say the same thing about unsolicited examples involving male genitalia, but you still volunteered to publicly be a douchebag for us today.

  • @TheBlackhorse1954
    @TheBlackhorse1954 4 ปีที่แล้ว +55

    I have been shooting the 308/7.62X51 rounds since early 1972, which was still the era of the great 30-06. I've used them in both military weapons and civilian weapons interchangably. Not ONCE have I ever experienced an issue with either ammo in either type of weapon. I shot on the Army AMU for a couple years, I used civilian match ammo in my M14 and won the 1,000 yard Paul Bunion Match in Washington State. I now have 5 rifles chambered in the 308, and 3 of them are military weapons. Over 45 years of shooting these rounds in both military and civilian weapons, and not once was there ever an issue.

    • @TheBlackhorse1954
      @TheBlackhorse1954 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @ryan rogers Absolutely no difference. Military rounds are good for range fodder, I used AMU Loaded 178 grain match ammo for shooting many many matches, both in military and civilian (Remington 700) rifles with no issues. All weapons prefer a certain round and some rounds performed better in my M14 that didn't perform so well in my 700. But there was never an issue with feeding, firing, extracting in anything I've shot in my rifles of this caliber. There was never a hard to extract case, or any sign of case or head separation, or even a heavy primer strike. My M1A shoots both equally well, but actually prefers the military NATO rounds. My Zavasta 308 does also. I no longer hunt, but I've taken every North American game with my Remington 700 308. Using everything from 150 grain to 180 grain and mostly the Core lokt Remington rounds, and have taken that same rifle and shot and won many civilian long range open sight competitions with military match ammo.

    • @DynoDieselWagon
      @DynoDieselWagon ปีที่แล้ว

      Good deal 👌🏼

    • @KennyT187
      @KennyT187 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      That doesn't mean every 7.62 NATO weapon can shoot the .308 without problems

    • @TheBlackhorse1954
      @TheBlackhorse1954 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@KennyT187 If a 7.62 NATO weapon can't shoot the 308 without problems, then that NATO weapon is a sub standard NATO weapon and probably doesn't truly meet NATO standards. They are the same cartridge.

    • @KennyT187
      @KennyT187 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@TheBlackhorse1954 They're same only externally - .308 has thinner case which is designed for tighter chambers with smaller tolerance and higher pressures in mind.
      Also NATO standard doesn't equal quality - it just means it's a standardized spec for each NATO country (obv). The 7.62 NATO chambers are looser because as said in the video they're designed with bigger tolerances in mind because not all ammo factories in every NATO country produce cartridges with 100.00% equal dimensions.
      Glad you have had the opportunity to fire high-quality 7.62 NATO rifles that can fire .308 like nothing but I bet if you fire some high-powered .308 ammo from an old FN FAL, case rupture might be a possible concern - but with some high-accuracy NATO sniper rifle (like the M24) you would be probably fine firing the .308.

  • @kingrat1967
    @kingrat1967 4 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    At last! Someone with a straight answer!

  • @TheTGRproductions
    @TheTGRproductions ปีที่แล้ว +10

    .308/7.62 x 51. My absolute favorite round of all time! Arguably the most versatile cartridge out there!

  • @DonieRayCocaine
    @DonieRayCocaine 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    My RRA ar10 is advertised as a 308. But the barrel is stamped 7.62. Ive shot both with great results. Really fun gun.

  • @brucehill1220
    @brucehill1220 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Thank you for keeping it simple and to the point

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks for being here!

  • @06GTblue
    @06GTblue 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Keep the Quick Tip videos coming!

  • @elppedro77
    @elppedro77 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thank you for a straight-forward, professional video that gets right to the point!! I now know which lower to buy to start my build project.

  • @joeytunez
    @joeytunez 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Thank you for getting straight to the point with what we all came here for at the very beginning. Now I will watch the entire video, hit the like, and share out of respect

    • @PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool
      @PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool ปีที่แล้ว +1

      “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. -John 3:16

  • @ghiivannhykhaztroh8546
    @ghiivannhykhaztroh8546 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    Thanks for the info. Love these videos.

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you!

  • @bwtjma183
    @bwtjma183 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very thankful, Helped me out with my questions on my new rifle!

  • @thesentinel8974
    @thesentinel8974 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Awesome clear and concise in delivery and content

  • @FirstnameLastname-vy2dg
    @FirstnameLastname-vy2dg 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Nice videos thank you for taking the time to make them

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for watching!

  • @jimzivny1554
    @jimzivny1554 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good, quick and easy explanation. I've heard some "experts" give long winded opinions that meant nothing. Thanks

  • @TheZeffan
    @TheZeffan 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thanks for the explanation. Great content.

  • @bc30cal99
    @bc30cal99 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good morning from southern British Columbia sir. Thanks much for the video, I learned something today that I thought I knew, but apparently did not! Very cool to learn. Stay well sir.

  • @billg6051
    @billg6051 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the info & your time!

  • @GaveMeGrace1
    @GaveMeGrace1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you that was helpful and informative

  • @Naso03
    @Naso03 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Excellent video. Good information. Thank you.

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you!

  • @garywilliams7938
    @garywilliams7938 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for keeping it short and simple. ❤

  • @TheMaddogronh
    @TheMaddogronh 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    The way I understand it from all the research I've done is:
    Both rifles can hold up to the pressures,,, My 1916 Spanish Mauser was tested by a lab and took over 95,000 PSI before it came apart.
    But,, The head spacing for the 308 Win is much less than the 7.62 NATO.
    So if you fire a 308 Win in a 7.62 NATO it can stretch to far and split the case.
    That's why it's alright to fire a 7.62 NATO in a 308 Win. and not the other way around.
    So, can some military rifles fire the 308 Win,, you bet,, it's all in what the head spacing is on that rifle.
    The head space on older rifles need to be check to be safe.
    That's my 2 cents !!!!

    • @leeeng478
      @leeeng478 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Head spacing is safe the only difference is taking into account a combat environment. Chambers are looser and copper on the brass is annealed for harsher conditions. I have shot both in mt AR10 never had a problem.
      But for my M1 garand in 30-06 that is a different subject all together I NEVER shoot commercial ammo in a garand. 180 grain bullet loaded with a slow powder like IMR 4350 will bend the OP rod. Heavy bullets and slow powder puts to much pressure on the op rods and destroys them! While the 308/7.62x51 use similar powders that convert from military to commercial medium burn powders like 4895. Also the gas systems for the 7,62x51 are more tolerant to pessure spikes.

  • @christiandruan
    @christiandruan 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the straight forward information

  • @garymatney9344
    @garymatney9344 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks Brownells!

  • @WRMonger1
    @WRMonger1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Now that makes sense, I had a model 88 .308 Winchester and after about 5 or 6 consecutive rounds it would start having extraction issues. I had figured that the heat was expanding the chamber too much but it sounds like the neck on the nato rounds may have been the issue.
    Btw it didn’t happen with the.308 Winchester ammo.

    • @john-paulsilke893
      @john-paulsilke893 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Paul B that’s your answer sir. The .223/5.56 thing is mostly nonexistent as far as issues but for well cut bolt guns the 7.62x51/.308 thing is real, (not often but definitely).

    • @WRMonger1
      @WRMonger1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      John-Paul Silke
      My model 88 was made in 1964 and I kick myself for selling it every time I think about it. Well made and highly accurate, even if it did recoil like a cannon. I’ll have to get a Henry Long Range but it’s still not the same...

  • @rolandbrawner8282
    @rolandbrawner8282 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    John Cashwell
    Thank you for the clarification of CIP, I always love learning something new. You used it in a reply to Mike Papa Kilo re: his video on 7.62x51 and .308. I don't have the link, but, it shouldn't be hard to find.
    Thanks again, Roland

  • @mrPauljacob
    @mrPauljacob 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video.. straight to the point.

  • @sharktooh76
    @sharktooh76 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    .308 and 7.62 have almost the same pressure (or a difference of 2000 PSI) IF you measure it with the same method. they're interchangeable in both ways without any risks.

    • @PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool
      @PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool ปีที่แล้ว +6

      “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. -John 3:16

    • @sharktooh76
      @sharktooh76 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool 🤮🤮🤮

    • @alpine7313
      @alpine7313 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@PeterMartyrVermigli_is_cool "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Caliber, so that everyone who shoots .45 ACP will not perish, but have eternal life. - John Moses Browning 3:16

  • @Me2Lancer
    @Me2Lancer 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks. You confirmed what I believed but needed to confirm.

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks for watching!

  • @Rundu1987
    @Rundu1987 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    We had lots of army issue ammo in the old apartheid South Africa and if, if, if there was a difference we did not notice it. We practiced with 7.62 and hunted with .308 all in the same rifles. R1 wich was was a copy of the FN FAL and Isreali Mauser in .308 Win.

    • @jeramyw
      @jeramyw 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I wish they would have made the the R4 and R5 in 7.62 as well. I wish I could have one in general.

    • @martkbanjoboy8853
      @martkbanjoboy8853 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Like other FAL's the gas port pressure could be adjusted to a point. I never used .308 in my service rifle, & we were not aloud to sign them out to go huntin' o the weekends. :rolleyes:

  • @theluth9046
    @theluth9046 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks man great info!

  • @pastoenglish-pastoingles7032
    @pastoenglish-pastoingles7032 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Straight to the point. Thanks

  • @thehoneybadger8089
    @thehoneybadger8089 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    People have been shooting them interchangeably for over 60 years and I've never heard of anyone having a problem.

    • @jorgesolis9468
      @jorgesolis9468 ปีที่แล้ว

      More wear and tear in the long run most people that say they've done it with no issues only shoot 5 times a year ask hog hunters how well that goes

    • @jason60chev
      @jason60chev ปีที่แล้ว

      Past performance is not indicative of future results.

  • @manish_gupta-mkg
    @manish_gupta-mkg 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for the information,

  • @rodneycooke6538
    @rodneycooke6538 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great video and informative

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I feel the same, only the exact opposite. I would like to see them support any claim they have made in this video.

  • @chrischiampo7647
    @chrischiampo7647 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Thanks For the Explanation 😀

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thanks for being here!

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Dont thank them. They have spout nothing but misinformation for 2 minutes

  • @carlosrobertofelipe4396
    @carlosrobertofelipe4396 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Obrigado amigo pela excelente explicação . Procuro essa explicação há tempos e ninguém soube me ensinar como você . Simples e objetivo. Muito obrigado 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

  • @5thid738
    @5thid738 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video!

  • @stellardancing
    @stellardancing 4 ปีที่แล้ว +52

    Good, basic video... Without getting super advanced on the subject

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Gotta start at a high level for the newbies!

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@brownells no! No brownells. This is misinformation. There is no difference in .308 and 7.62x51. I expect this from regular gun guys on youtube that dont know an indepth amount on the subject. But i expect better from you. Niether has "higher pressure" than the other. Case thickness is all about manufacturer differences not the cartridge. And the differences in chambers are for in field reliability of operation not more case expansion. What are you talking about? Where are you coming up with this stuff? Sorry to rant, but this is a pet peeve of mine. Either cartridge can be reliably and safely shot from either chamber. The only reason there is a different name is because the military has to call their things by the nato metric standard. In the military they dont even call them 7.62 its just m80 or m118. I buy .308s that are exact copies of the m118, but say .308. They are physically identical in every functioning way, case dimentions, powder, heads. I believe the primmers are different, but that make minimal difference. They are the same. Hell, the cases come off the same machines as the military purchased cartridges. But they are sold commercially as .308.

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @vegeta420z now i did

    • @leeeng478
      @leeeng478 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@anthonymilano9233 You are completely correct.

    • @1014p
      @1014p 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@anthonymilano9233 Ok if this is all correct. Why do so many gun websites and channels say otherwise? One would think the reloading channels would catch they are the same. So the chamber head space once bolt closes must be same as .308 and 7.62 x 51 spec builds then?

  • @WhiskeyTactical
    @WhiskeyTactical 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    awesome info i thought they were identical. ill definitely go for a .308

  • @ETHRON1
    @ETHRON1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I ran a several thousand rounds through my ArmaLite AR-10B (pre forward asst) of various 308 and never had an issue... It was chambered 7.62x51. Only 308 I wouldn't run are rounds like the Hornady Superformance which are even higher pressure, not for gas gunss.

  • @mrdinme.4768
    @mrdinme.4768 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thats great, thank you

  • @christophercraig9469
    @christophercraig9469 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Excellent information!!!!!!!

  • @rondoc8071
    @rondoc8071 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I love brownell videos

  • @corsair371
    @corsair371 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you!

  • @luciferrutherford4446
    @luciferrutherford4446 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you! Been curious about the difference for awhile. Side note - you have amazing hair, by the way!

  • @lunaticrider209
    @lunaticrider209 4 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    My scar17s loves them both! Thanks FN!!

    • @razieldrakis
      @razieldrakis 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Your FN SCAR17S can chamber both, that's good to know. Is their anything specific that I should look for when choosing any one .308win ammunition for the FN SCAR17S? I had received an FN SCAR17S last February and I have not yet been able to take it to the local shooting range. So I thought I'd ask about what ammunition is safe to use?

    • @lunaticrider209
      @lunaticrider209 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      razieldrakis I just shoot that steel case tulammo. If I’m hunting or shooting paper I’ll use Winchester Super X 150 grain or Hornady Match .308 WIN 178 Grain Boat Tail Hollow Point. I’m good with that.

    • @Shadow6a
      @Shadow6a 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I personally like the Hornady 168 ELD Match

    • @lunaticrider209
      @lunaticrider209 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Erok I’ll have to try a box and see how the scar likes it. Thanks!

    • @Shadow6a
      @Shadow6a 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@lunaticrider209 I use it in my scar, but each is it's own beast with what they love. The 168 Superformance match is freaking amazing! 155 is ok, but the muzzle velocity is roughly 2500 fps on a scar with 16.25" barrel with this stuff. It's 2840 fps in a 24" barrel.

  • @davehunt8088
    @davehunt8088 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Good job Caleb

  • @rickymurphy9173
    @rickymurphy9173 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I have a old fal from the 50ts and I shoot both in it a great gun.

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thats because they are the same. Most of this video is misinformation from not understanding the topic

  • @DNchap1417
    @DNchap1417 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Correct me if I'm wrong:
    They're ALMOST the same cartridge. The 308 (or inch round) came out first in 1952 while 7,62 NATO came out 2 years later. Difference is that the inch version has a slightly hotter load and has 62,000 psi of pressure, while the metric round is a little bit lighter (usually 43-45 grains) and has 55-58,000 PSI.
    To my understanding, American-made or American-designed guns like the M14 and AR10 can shoot both variants without any problems. Guns like the FAL, G3, and the SCAR-H can shoot both variants also. Here's the catch: While unlikely to be catastrophic, the slightly higher pressure of the inch round can reduce the lifespan of these guns considerably.
    Similar analogies include the 30 Mauser vs 7,62 Tokarev and the 223 vs 556.

  • @timothysinnemon
    @timothysinnemon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have a Mossberg MVP patrol.It says on the barrel 7.62 nato.And in the owners manual firearms inscribed 7.62 nato can use win308

  • @lynnmanzenberger3709
    @lynnmanzenberger3709 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you

  • @haydencook682
    @haydencook682 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    The two rounds look significantly different from each other...The older .308s are shorter than the Nato, but now when I buy ammo they are completely identical to the naked eye. I bought some .308 from an old vet and noticed when I got home that the .308 he had sold me were different, like seen in the video, from the .308 I had recently purchased new, but identical to the Nato I had also purchased new.

    • @iTheEncounter
      @iTheEncounter ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Case and bullet diameter are still the same, changes have been made to the length of the bullet

  • @theoriginalOSOK
    @theoriginalOSOK 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you. This explains why PSA chambers their A-10 rifles in .308 Win. It's good for both. Makes sense.

  • @jeremyorr7469
    @jeremyorr7469 4 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well done video

  • @billsmith857
    @billsmith857 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    the thinner wall 308 allows more powder ultimately giving it a higher pressure due to sheer powder mass however the thicker wall 762X51's makes the case a smaller space , creating a higher pressure environment than the 308 all else being equal.......its a way to get higher pressure from less powder....military savings. Again the 308 will hold more powder but reloaders should be cautious using the NATO case with less space that can result in a higher pressure spike quicker.

  • @leonardsamuels9117
    @leonardsamuels9117 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good day,
    My Lee Enfield No4 MK1/2 was modified to shoot single shot target by fitting a Musgrave barrel quite a while ago. I purchased the converted rifle 1 year ago.
    I was informed that the 308 Win cartridge is the preferred cartridge, but I can shoot 7.62 Nato as well.
    I am a bit sceptical, but think I should have the headspace checked rather than test-firing to determine.

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes! Good Plan!

  • @PNW_Sportbike_Life
    @PNW_Sportbike_Life 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I always thought it was the other way around; interesting!

    • @seanseanston
      @seanseanston 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      IIRC, it is the other way around (as in civilian vs. military) for 5.56 and .223. Maybe you were thinking of that.

  • @jason60chev
    @jason60chev 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Many people still will say that they are the same. The outside dimensions are practically the same, but inside specs and CHAMBER specs are different and people somehow don;t want or cannot understand that.

    • @markgoostree6334
      @markgoostree6334 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      So, if the chamber specs are not the same do I need dies for each type? How can I properly size for both with the same dies? Does not make sense.

    • @jason60chev
      @jason60chev 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@markgoostree6334 I Googled the question and came upon this forum: www.thehighroad.org/index.php?threads/7-62-x-51-load-data.303068/

  • @japguns1022
    @japguns1022 4 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    That's good to know... This runs counter intuitive to the 223 and 5.56 NATO rules..

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thats because people think there is a difference between any of these cartridges. There isnt. They are the same .308 and 7.62, just like .223 and 5.56. They are interchangeable. Show me one case where there was a crtitical failure shooting one from the other that didnt involve reloading. I wont hold my breath. They dont exist.

    • @Flemdragon
      @Flemdragon 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Suinoth can you? It’s literally the same. I don’t know about 308 and 7.62. I’ve never tested it personally. I have with the 223/5.56. It’s the same it doesn’t matter. Its a myth. Stop being an idiot.

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Flemdragon i have tested it, both 7.62 in a .308 chamber and vise versa. Same with .223 and 5.56. Your right, there is no difference. I think he also said something about the deeper 7.62 chamber splitting cases or something. Nonsense. Maybe in a case shot multiple times without annealing. A new case from a decent manufacturer will not split no matter how bad or deep the chanber is. I have also, and i cant stress enough that i do not recommend this, shot a .308 in a 30-06 chamber. It blows the shouldner and neck out to a straightwall and will probably split then. But still no critical failure. I honestly dont know what these guys are afraid of. Trust me, if it were dangerous manufacturers would not make them interchangeable. There are rounds out there that have no need to be dofferent sizes but are because they dont want them to he factory capable of being shot in something that it could be dangerous in.

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @ agreed. If it were the wrong cartridge. Like i said, i dont recommend the .308 in a 30-06. That was just to prove a point. But if the rounds are the same, just labeled differently its fine.

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Dirk Pitt well thats the steel cases. Ive seen a lot of guns jam with that. Especially semi auto rifles. Especially if not meticulously cleaned often. Tried shooting some through a range gun once. Had to use a rod to get the case out every few shots. I dont mind the steel cased ammo but you really need to clean thoroughly when you have tight chambers

  • @elam1113
    @elam1113 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Really like these videos, I'll be putting some money in your pockets.

  • @mightress
    @mightress 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My dad worked for FN and worked on the fall. They where stamped in both .308 and 7,62-51. Nothing was changed on the guns, just a different stamp.

    • @bwana3006
      @bwana3006 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      mightress does that include the FNAR? I shoot 308 but the barrel is stamped 762x51

    • @mightress
      @mightress 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@bwana3006 yep, no difference at all. .308 or 7.62-51 where identical guns, just Different stamp for caliber.

    • @bwana3006
      @bwana3006 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      mightress whew i’ve got her zeroed at three hundred with federal 168gr hollowpoint match wit great results on hogs and deer very nice rifle. I recommend it to anyone

    • @ulrichhowell2310
      @ulrichhowell2310 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Dead on correct

  • @jmsmaxwell
    @jmsmaxwell 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I want to see the comparison between the two round using the same testing standards and
    measurements for both rounds. I know pressures are different and subtle changes but
    the pressures is measure two different ways. Lets do an accurate test and used the same
    test using identical standards for both rounds. Then we might have a better idea as to
    why the NATO round is different from the standard .308 rounnd.

  • @ytnommah3983
    @ytnommah3983 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    So lower means it’s more focused towards the exit point. Does that mean it’s like a ar15 nato round? And how does the pressure make accuracy?

  • @Walkeranz
    @Walkeranz 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Some are chambered ‘.308 only’ and a 7.62x51 case will get stuck and not eject, probably due to the thicker brass.

  • @cocobearnoski
    @cocobearnoski 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Calob has them chops

  • @anthonylimjoco5958
    @anthonylimjoco5958 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I hate when people say there's more head space. If you have more head space you'll have failure to strike the primer and military primer at that. There more jump to the lands, thats how you relieve pressure

  • @The1ThtRulesAll
    @The1ThtRulesAll 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I had always thought it was the other way around. I shoot a Springfield M1A made in 91. I have some 308 and have sent a mag or two with 308. Is it safe to continue with it? I have some match grade 308 as well and they are hot, have not run those yet.

  • @patwalsh2868
    @patwalsh2868 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thank you very much, I was told they were the same , I have a Ruger.308 Scout Rifle, n when SlowJoeBiden was elected I purchased ammo , n I bought 7.62x51 , im so Glad you gave me great info about the differences !!
    I feel safe n I dont have to buy a new rifle for all the ammo I bought !!! Thanks a lot , from Commy Ct. 💥💥🔫🇺🇸

  • @BertShackleford
    @BertShackleford 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    May I suggest a future video topic?
    _The origins of the 22 magnum rimfire._
    Out of all the rimfire cartridges, the 22 WMR has to be my absolute favorite. Sure the 17 HMR is nifty but I'm not fond of rounds that have such a short barrel life. I once saw a Remington chambered in .22-250 that basically had zero rifling left in the barrel. Those extreme velocity rounds tend to destroy barrels quicker than the usual calibers.
    Remember when the WSM and WSSM hit the scene back in the 00's? Those .223 and .243 calibers were notorious for eroding barrel life. As I predicted, they didn't seem to catch on with the general public and I rarely hear about them these days.
    Nonetheless, it's always interesting to see what wildcat cartridges eventually make it to the big leagues (so to speak). Most of them tend to fail big time. We're looking at you .224 Valkyrie.
    Keep up the good work my friends.
    EDITED (as always) for double spacing.

    • @john-paulsilke893
      @john-paulsilke893 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Bert Shackleford weirdly as if to illustrate your point I know two people who reload and shoot .300 WSM and a .338-.300 WSM. Both men have over $2,000 worth of glass and one has a genuine Harris instead of a cheap clone like everyone else on their heavily built Rem 700’s again worth well north of $2,000. It’s a Gucci cartridge type and the guys who shoot them tend to have money and reload not for money savings but for maximum quality shooting bullets that cost more then my match grade .308 cartridges with Sierras in them. 😳

    • @BertShackleford
      @BertShackleford 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@john-paulsilke893 Indeed.
      There will always be the faithful cartridge club or FCC as my old man calls it. Those die-hard fans and proponents of the lesser known calibers or the ones that fell out of favor.
      The 1000 yard range at Ben Avery Shooting Facility is a perfect example. You'll meet people shooting some type of 6mm projectile from their highly custom bench rest rifles. Those things have less than a hair trigger and optics that are far more valuable than their car or truck.
      There's always going to be a niche group and I wouldn't have it any other way!
      Stay classy my friend.
      EDITED for double spacing.

    • @BillMcGirr
      @BillMcGirr 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      My buddy has a 325 WSM that I reload for him...
      But I won’t shoot that thing.
      It’s a f’ing shoulder cannon.🤣🤣🤣🤣
      What a beast.

    • @john-paulsilke893
      @john-paulsilke893 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Bert Shackleford for sure. I was criticizing these guys. One is a helicopter mechanic and gets shipped to all kinds of nasty places and owns a wonderful farm full of fat healthy animals that are mostly pets. Incredibly kind family man and generous to a fault. Being wealthy or wasting your money on an over priced hunting rifle isn’t a crime and his money is a subsidy to the rest of us who buy an out of the box Savage scope and rifle kit and off the shelf ammo. It’s great.

    • @nuttcrew
      @nuttcrew 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@BertShackleford @Bert Shackleford, great posts & i miss Ben Avery Range.

  • @plaidomelette4358
    @plaidomelette4358 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    If you are ever unsure, check your barrel if you are able to see it. I think by law they all have to be stamped for the caliber they are chambered for.

  • @project86xero
    @project86xero 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Yeah I have a Tavor 7 and it's chamber in 7.62 NATO. Although many people have said 308 is fine IWI hasn't officially stated as such. Also it has a 1:12 twist, so it's more suited for 7.62 NATO weight cartridges anyway. An quality 7.62x51 is generally cheaper than good 308. So I'm cool with it.

    • @anthonymilano9233
      @anthonymilano9233 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Are you saying you cant find .308 in the 147 head weight range? Thats makes no sense. Shoot what ever is cheaper and you get more fun and enjoyment from. But the cartridges are interchangeable

    • @leeeng478
      @leeeng478 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes it is officially stated! 7.62x51 is the metric conversion for American standard 308! Pretty simple!

  • @sierratechnicaladvisorygroup
    @sierratechnicaladvisorygroup 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Caleb, your hair is perfect. Well done sir.

  • @jeffreyMagnum460
    @jeffreyMagnum460 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great info, pro 2A.

  • @ChoochContrino
    @ChoochContrino 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Would it be safe to say the a .308 chamber that headspaces on the large end, over a No-Go but under a Field gauge, is better to shoot the larger 7.62 NATO cartridge? I have one that measures approximately 1.637. Thanks

  • @davidjennings127
    @davidjennings127 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    10-4,answered my question.👍

  • @LizardTheWiz
    @LizardTheWiz 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    If I shoot a 7.62x51 out of a 308 rifle will I see any inaccuracy or downsides compared to using the proper 308 round?

  • @ttran4957
    @ttran4957 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good information, but you pointed to the wrong rounds in the end when it came to which one is .308 and which one is 7.62.

  • @walidqaissi9292
    @walidqaissi9292 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    like explaining thank you

  • @billferner6741
    @billferner6741 หลายเดือนก่อน

    When I was shooting in the military, the nato cartridges had a painted green ring around where the bullet met the casing.

  • @ernielopez7736
    @ernielopez7736 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My Browning BAR says 308 only on the barrel

  • @scubaguy14
    @scubaguy14 ปีที่แล้ว

    cool, I loved my FAL while in the engineers that is 7.62

  • @johnnyronnie6334
    @johnnyronnie6334 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Great video thank you so much. If anyone ever owned a Scar H 17s, do you know if its okay to shoot both rounds out of it? Would love to get a scoped hunting rifle that shares caliber, so I am really curious as I read SOME things online it can take away from the reliability/misfire more so with the .308. Thank you so much to any answers :)

  • @s1lentcalib3r
    @s1lentcalib3r 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Im confused because my dpms lr308 has 7.62 on the barrel but ive shot 308 and 7.62 out of it and it works fine.

    • @-Seeker-
      @-Seeker- 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      It's most likely safe to use .308 is 7.62 rifles. Most of them are built strong enough to handle it. But some very old very specific 7.62 guns cannot handle .308 and malfunction.

  • @rickybroussard5350
    @rickybroussard5350 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    My rilfle is which is a Remington 788 is chamber for both one of the main reasons that I bought it

  • @robbiekipping1124
    @robbiekipping1124 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I love brownells

    • @brownells
      @brownells  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We love you!

  • @stevensonDonnie
    @stevensonDonnie 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I did not know this.

  • @jamescampbell4334
    @jamescampbell4334 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    IIRC, Winchester produced and marketed the 308W to the public. Eventually, 7.62 NATO was developed from the Winchester cartridge.
    The video seems to have this detail incorrect.

  • @bigracer3867
    @bigracer3867 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    223, 308 calibers, all need to be said. Thx brownells.

  • @theprfesssor
    @theprfesssor 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    308 has a max pressure of 62,000psi, 7.62x51mm NATO is lower at 60,000psi so 308 guns can safely shoot 7.62 but the other way around is tricky most modern guns NATO can handle it but like he said if you don't know find out from someone who should aka the manufacturer of the firearm

    • @Jacob-yo4qv
      @Jacob-yo4qv 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Theprfesssor thank you for repeating this video 😑

    • @America-First2024
      @America-First2024 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Theprfesssor
      You actually cleared up a question I had! Thank you! 👍🏻

    • @theprfesssor
      @theprfesssor 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@Jacob-yo4qv
      I wanted to put the difference in proper context so I gave the actual raw numbers

    • @leeeng478
      @leeeng478 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You guys are crying over minor spec differences that have never shown up in the real world scenarios. Military weapons are extremely strong. Many German NATO rounds were way hotter NATO Patrone is loaded HOT!
      Stop wearing Fu##ing skirts!

    • @rolandbrawner8282
      @rolandbrawner8282 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I understand the 7.62 x 51 rounds can be run through .308 die sets and used in the .308 chambered rifle.
      Disclaimer: I have not tried this yet, but, I have a crap load of 7.62 x 51 rounds and .308 dies. I WILL be trying it. Will post back after I try it...unless the explosion kills me. 😆

  • @managedmediallc1495
    @managedmediallc1495 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    i guess the next debate, we should talk about a 5.7 chevy will not fit in my 350 cid carriage. or maybe the (12.7 mm) not the same as my .50BMG or even the 7.62×63mm will not shoot in my 30/06.when does this stop. 1st off USA = standard ..but every other country uses metric standard like 7.62x51. military uses 2 different kinds of ammo for rifle and belted machine guns .ones a little hotter than the other . not size .308 vs.7.62 . ask a GI if he runs out of rifle ammo in the field, would/could he shoot linked ammo?

  • @luckyhowe431
    @luckyhowe431 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I know you can use the 7.62 X51 in a 308 bolt action but is it okay to use the 51 in a 308 lever action

  • @connorkrycki7054
    @connorkrycki7054 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you. I said this in a gun store and some old guy caused a scene arguing about how wrong I am. Hope he sees this

    • @PierreKerbage
      @PierreKerbage 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      These arguments happen all the time - Seen that too in gun shows - where someone sticks their nose and gives you their opinion. My father used to tell me, son, take the E out of Ego and learn to LET GO. When someone does that, I smile, shake my head and walk away. Not every statement requires a response and certainly not an argument. Walk away.

  • @anthony76590
    @anthony76590 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I read that they are the same pressure, but CUP (copper units of pressure) data is mistakenly interpretated as PSI (pounds per square inch). It's a potential headspace issue not pressure

    • @peelreg
      @peelreg 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Exactly right. The old military literature said the ammo had a max pressure of 55,000 psi. If you read the entire document, you see that they say "by the copper crusher method". In this day and age we refer to pressures as CUP (Copper crusher) or PSI (by transducer). I have worked in a ballistics lab and measure both types of ammo at around 62,000 psi, although ammo is typically about 5,000 psi less than that.

  • @emerson5225
    @emerson5225 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    But since the 7.62x51 NATO has a lower pressure,we can't discart the possibility of having no enough Power to cycle the gun(on a semi,or Full auto .308winchester rifle)...right?

  • @crawlspaceboy5575
    @crawlspaceboy5575 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thank you for this video buddy! and that's one hell of a rabbit ridge!

  • @SuAmigoElilegal
    @SuAmigoElilegal 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Question pls. If you have a .308 bolt action rifle and ar10 .308 semi auto , do you recommend using. 308 on the bolt action and 752x51 nato on the Ar10

  • @davidsharonsherburne2456
    @davidsharonsherburne2456 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow. Didn't know they were opposite of .223-5.56 mm.