308 vs 7.62 NATO: Huge Difference On Steel

Published on December 6, 2022
Duration: 6:48

This video provides a practical, experimental comparison between .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges, focusing on their ability to penetrate mild steel plates. The host, demonstrating significant expertise in ballistics, conducts a controlled test using different rifle barrel lengths and custom equipment to measure impact depths. The results reveal a surprising outcome where 7.62 NATO demonstrated superior penetration over .308 Winchester, attributed to potential differences in bullet construction.

Quick Summary

A ballistics test comparing .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO revealed that 7.62 NATO achieved deeper penetration on 1/2-inch mild steel plates, despite .308 having higher advertised pressure and velocity. This suggests bullet construction, such as jacket thickness or lead hardness, plays a crucial role in penetration.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: .308 vs 7.62 NATO Pressure
  2. 00:32Test Setup & Methodology
  3. 00:48Ammunition Specs: Norma vs ZQI
  4. 01:42Initial Steel Plate Tests (1/4" - 1/2")
  5. 04:31Measuring Penetration Depth
  6. 05:49Results: 7.62 NATO Out-Penetrates .308

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO?

While dimensionally identical, .308 Winchester operates at a significantly higher pressure than 7.62x51mm NATO. This pressure difference means 7.62 NATO can typically be safely fired in .308 chambers, but firing .308 in a 7.62 NATO chamber is generally discouraged due to potential over-pressure risks.

Does .308 Winchester penetrate steel better than 7.62 NATO?

In a specific test using 147 gr FMJ ammunition and 1/2-inch mild steel plates, 7.62 NATO demonstrated deeper penetration than .308 Winchester, regardless of rifle barrel length. This suggests bullet construction factors may outweigh advertised velocity or energy differences.

How was the steel penetration test conducted?

The test involved shooting mild steel plates (1/4" to 1") at 50 yards using rifles with 16" and 24" barrels. A custom jig ensured consistent impact angles, and penetration depth was measured using calipers after grinding the impact sites.

Can I shoot 7.62 NATO ammo in my .308 rifle?

Generally, yes. Most .308 Winchester rifles can safely fire 7.62x51mm NATO ammunition because the NATO round operates at lower pressures. However, always consult your rifle manufacturer's recommendations, as some specific firearms might have limitations.

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