7.62 NATO Ammo: A Guide to 7.62x51mm NATO Ammunition
Introduction
The .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges are closely related, often leading to confusion among shooters. While they share similar dimensions, they have important differences in pressure ratings, chamber tolerances, and intended use.
Originally developed by Winchester in 1952, the .308 Winchester was introduced as a commercial hunting and sporting round. Soon after, NATO standardized a military version in 1954, known as 7.62x51mm NATO, to be used in infantry rifles, machine guns, and sniper platforms. The .308 Winchester is more commonly found in sporting goods stores, indicating its widespread availability compared to 7.62 NATO ammunition, which is often sourced from military surplus.
Both cartridges offer excellent accuracy, effective range, and versatility, making them popular choices among hunters, target shooters, and military personnel worldwide.
Recommended 7.62x51 Ammo for Sale
Origins and Nomenclature
The 7.62x51mm NATO was derived from the .308 Winchester, not the other way around. Winchester first released the .308 Win in 1952 for the civilian market, and its performance led NATO to adopt a military variant in 1954.
This cartridge is often referred to as:
- 7.62 NATO
- 7.62x51mm NATO
- 7.62mm NATO
The NATO version was designed for semi-automatic and fully automatic military rifles, with a focus on reliability and standardization across allied forces. Today, it remains widely used in battle rifles, sniper platforms, and machine guns such as the M14, FN FAL, M240, and M60.
Technical Specifications
The 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge features:
- Case Length: 51.18mm (2.015 inches)
- Overall Length: 70.2mm (2.775 inches)
- Common Bullet Weight: 147-150 grains (FMJ)
- Chamber Pressure: NATO EPVAT max pressure: ~60,200 psi
While 7.62 NATO and .308 Winchester share nearly identical case dimensions, their chamber specifications and pressure ratings differ, which affects interchangeability (discussed below).
Performance Characteristics
The 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge is typically loaded with a 147-grain metal jacket bullet, striking a perfect balance between accuracy and penetration. This makes it an excellent choice for a variety of military applications, including infantry and sniper roles. Its performance characteristics are well-suited for these demanding environments, providing reliable and consistent results.
In addition to its military applications, the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge is commonly used for training purposes. Its availability and affordability make it a practical option for both military and civilian training exercises. Whether you’re honing your skills on the range or preparing for a mission, this cartridge offers dependable performance without breaking the bank.
The cartridge’s chamber dimensions are designed to handle higher pressures, making it suitable for use in small arms. This capability ensures that it can be used safely and effectively in a wide range of firearms, from rifles to machine guns. Its robust design and construction contribute to its widespread adoption in NATO countries, where it serves as a standard round for many military forces.
When it comes to performance at medium to long distances, the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge truly shines. With an effective range of up to 800 meters, it is capable of delivering accurate and powerful shots over considerable distances. This makes it a versatile choice for various shooting applications, from tactical engagements to long-range target shooting.
The 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge is also popular in civilian circles, where it is used for hunting and target shooting. Its versatility and performance characteristics make it a favorite among shooters who demand reliability and accuracy. Additionally, its price is generally lower than other rifle cartridges, making it an attractive option for those looking to get the most bang for their buck.
Widely available in various stock configurations, including rifle and machine gun variants, the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge is a staple in the shooting community. Its performance characteristics, including a flat trajectory and minimal wind drift, make it an ideal choice for firing at medium to long distances. Whether you’re on the battlefield or at the range, this cartridge delivers the performance you need to hit your target with confidence.
.308 Winchester vs. 7.62x51mm NATO:
Interchangeability
A common question among shooters is whether .308 Winchester and 7.62 NATO can be used interchangeably. The short answer: It depends on the firearm.
Key Differences in Chamber Dimensions
|
Feature
|
.308 Winchester
|
7.62x51mm NATO
|
|
Origin
|
Commercial (1952)
|
Military Standardized (1954)
|
|
Max Pressure
|
62,000 psi (SAAMI)
|
~60,200 psi (NATO EPVAT)
|
|
Case Thickness
|
Typically thinner
|
Often slightly thicker
|
|
Chamber Tolerances
|
Tighter (better accuracy)
|
Looser (better reliability)
|
Can You Shoot .308 Win in a 7.62 NATO Chamber?
Most rifles chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO can safely fire .308 Winchester cartridges. However, it is always best to check the firearm manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can You Shoot 7.62 NATO in a .308 Win Chamber?
Some .308 Winchester rifles have tighter chambers, which may cause:
- Higher chamber pressures when using NATO ammo
- Harder extraction due to case expansion
- Increased wear on the firearm
The 7.62 NATO ammunition is shot for its performance and effectiveness, making it a popular choice among elite shooters and long-range shooting enthusiasts.
To ensure safety, shooters should always verify chamber specifications before mixing ammunition types.
Final Thoughts
The 7.62x51mm NATO and .308 Winchester are both powerful, versatile cartridges with decades of proven performance in military and civilian applications.
- .308 Winchester is the preferred choice for hunting, long-range precision shooting, and high-performance match ammo.
- 7.62x51mm NATO is optimized for military rifles and widely used in semi-auto and full-auto platforms.
When choosing between the two, knowing your rifle’s chamber specifications is key to ensuring safe and reliable performance.
