Best .308/7.62x51mm Ammo

The .308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO represent two versions of what is essentially the same cartridge, with the .308 Winchester being the commercial variant and the 7.62x51mm NATO its military counterpart. Introduced in 1952, the .308 Winchester became the civilian standard for .30 caliber performance in a modern short-action rifle. When NATO standardized it as the 7.62x51mm in 1954, it became the primary military rifle cartridge for the Western world.

While these cartridges are often considered identical, there are subtle differences in their specifications. Commercial .308 Winchester ammunition is typically loaded to slightly higher pressures than 7.62 NATO, and civilian chambers tend to have tighter tolerances. However, these differences are minor enough that the cartridges are generally considered interchangeable in modern firearms, with the caveat that it's always best to confirm compatibility with your specific firearm's manufacturer. The cartridge, in both its civilian and military forms, has earned its reputation for accuracy, power, and versatility across applications from precision shooting to big game hunting.