.30-06 Springfield vs .308 Winchester
Analyzing the .30-06 Springfield vs .308 Winchester reveals two closely related cartridges using very similar loadings but demonstrating the .30-06's inherently greater power potential. The .30-06 Springfield (150gr Extreme Point at 2920 fps) maintains a moderate energy advantage, delivering 2612 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .308 Winchester's (150gr Extreme Point at 2820 fps) 2433 ft-lbs. Both cartridges utilize identical bullet weights and construction, making this a direct comparison of the cartridge cases' capabilities. The recoil comparison slightly favors the .308 Winchester, generating 22.2 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the .30-06's 25.02 ft-lbs. The .30-06's larger case capacity allows for higher velocities with the same bullet weight, demonstrating why it's generally considered more powerful than the .308 Winchester, though both remain excellent choices for big game hunting. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical hunting loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.30-06 Springfield Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.308 Winchester Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.30-06 Springfield vs .308 Winchester Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.
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.30-06 Springfield vs .308 Winchester Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.
.30-06 Springfield vs .308 Winchester Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
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 .308 Winchester Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.
.30-06 Springfield Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
.308 Winchester Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
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 .308 Winchester Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.
.30-06 Springfield vs .308 Winchester Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester.