.30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag

The .30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag comparison shows the classic step-up from standard to magnum power in .30 caliber. The .300 Win Mag (200gr ELD-X at 2860 fps) retains 2027 ft-lbs at 500 yards, while the .30-06 (150gr Polymer Tip at 2920 fps) delivers 1141 ft-lbs. Drop at 500 yards measures 47.7 inches for the .300 Win Mag and 52.9 inches for the .30-06. Recoil runs 25.0 ft-lbs for the .30-06 versus 40.6 ft-lbs for the .300 Win Mag. The .30-06 handles most North American hunting with less recoil and cheaper ammunition. The .300 Win Mag extends effective range on elk and other large game beyond 400 yards. Performance varies with ammunition selection and barrel length.

Ammunition Parameters

.30-06 Springfield Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
Extreme Point Polymer Tip
Bullet Weight:
150 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
2920 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.392
Zero Range:
100 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
1.5 inches

.300 Win Mag Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
ELD-X
Bullet Weight:
200 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
2860 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.597
Zero Range:
100 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
1.5 inches

.30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag Ballistics Chart

Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .30-06 Springfield and .300 Win Mag.

Loading...

Try Our Ballistics Calculators

Want to calculate exact trajectories for these calibers with your specific loads?

.30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag Energy Comparison

Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .30-06 Springfield and .300 Win Mag.

Loading...

.30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag Bullet Penetration

Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .30-06 Springfield and .300 Win Mag at self-defense distances.

Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration

Loading...

Notes:

  • FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
  • Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
  • Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors

.30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag Recoil

Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .30-06 Springfield and .300 Win Mag.

.30-06 Springfield Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
150.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
2920.0 fps
Powder Charge:
50 gr
Firearm Weight:
6 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
3.05 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
16.38 fps
Recoil Energy:
25.02 ft·lbf

.300 Win Mag Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
200.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
2860.0 fps
Powder Charge:
75.0 gr
Firearm Weight:
7.0 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
4.2 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
19.33 fps
Recoil Energy:
40.63 ft·lbf
Loading...

Notes:

  • Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
  • Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
  • Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
  • Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design

.30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag Velocity

Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .30-06 Springfield and .300 Win Mag.

Loading...

.30-06 Springfield vs .300 Win Mag Average Cost

Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .30-06 Springfield and .300 Win Mag.

Loading...