.303 vs .308: A Comprehensive Comparison of Two Iconic Rifle Cartridges
The world of rifle cartridges is vast and varied, with each caliber possessing its own unique characteristics and applications. Among the many options available, the .303 British and the .308 Winchester stand out as two historically significant and widely used cartridges. This article provides a comprehensive comparison of the .303 British and the .308 Winchester, examining their history, ballistics, applications, and overall performance to help you understand the nuances of each.
A Brief History
The .303 British
The .303 British cartridge has a long and storied history, dating back to its adoption by the British military in 1888. It was designed for use in the Lee-Metford rifle and later became the standard cartridge for the iconic Lee-Enfield rifle, which served the British Empire and Commonwealth forces through two World Wars and numerous other conflicts. The .303‘s rimmed design and relatively low operating pressure made it reliable and adaptable to various rifle designs. While largely superseded by more modern cartridges in military service, the .303 remains popular among civilian shooters, collectors, and those who appreciate its historical significance. Its legacy is cemented by its widespread use and the sheer number of rifles chambered for it that are still in circulation.
The .308 Winchester
The .308 Winchester, also known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, is a more modern cartridge, developed in the early 1950s as a replacement for the .30-06 Springfield. It was designed to provide similar ballistic performance to the .30-06 but in a shorter, lighter cartridge. The .308 quickly gained popularity in both military and civilian markets. The US military adopted the 7.62x51mm NATO version, and the .308 Winchester became a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and law enforcement. Its rimless design and higher operating pressure allow for greater accuracy and flatter trajectories. The .308‘s versatility and readily available ammunition have made it one of the most popular centerfire rifle cartridges in the world.
Ballistic Performance
Velocity and Energy
When comparing the ballistic performance of the .303 and the .308, several factors come into play, including bullet weight, powder charge, and barrel length. Generally, the .308 Winchester offers higher velocities and energy levels than the .303 British. A typical .308 load with a 150-grain bullet can achieve muzzle velocities of around 2,800 to 2,900 feet per second (fps), generating approximately 2,700 to 3,000 foot-pounds of energy. In contrast, a similar 150-grain .303 load might produce muzzle velocities of around 2,400 to 2,500 fps, with energy levels around 2,000 to 2,200 foot-pounds. This difference in velocity and energy translates to a flatter trajectory and greater downrange performance for the .308.
Trajectory and Range
The flatter trajectory of the .308 Winchester gives it an advantage in terms of effective range. With its higher velocity, the .308 bullet drops less over distance, making it easier to achieve accurate shots at longer ranges. While the .303 is certainly capable of accurate shots at moderate ranges (out to 300 yards or so), the .308 extends that effective range significantly, often exceeding 500 yards with proper ammunition and shooting technique. This makes the .308 a better choice for hunting in open terrain or for target shooting at extended distances. [See also: Long Range Shooting Techniques]
Bullet Selection
Both the .303 and the .308 offer a wide variety of bullet weights and designs to suit different applications. The .303 typically uses bullets ranging from 150 to 215 grains, while the .308 commonly uses bullets from 110 to 180 grains. Both cartridges are available with various bullet types, including soft points for hunting, full metal jackets for target shooting, and specialized designs for specific purposes, such as controlled expansion or deep penetration. The availability of modern bullet designs for the .308 often gives it an edge in terms of terminal performance, as these bullets are engineered to deliver consistent and reliable results on game.
Applications
Hunting
Both the .303 and the .308 are suitable for hunting medium to large game, such as deer, elk, and wild boar. The .308‘s higher velocity and flatter trajectory make it a better choice for longer-range hunting, while the .303 can be effective at shorter ranges. When hunting with the .303, it’s crucial to use appropriate bullet weights and designs to ensure adequate penetration and expansion. The .308 offers a wider selection of modern hunting bullets, making it easier to find a load that performs well on specific game animals. [See also: Ethical Hunting Practices]
Target Shooting
For target shooting, the .308 Winchester is generally considered to be the superior choice. Its inherent accuracy, flatter trajectory, and readily available match-grade ammunition make it well-suited for competitive shooting and precision target work. While the .303 can be accurate, it is more challenging to achieve the same level of precision due to its rimmed design and older rifle designs. The .308‘s popularity in the target shooting world means that there is a vast array of aftermarket accessories and components available to enhance its performance.
Military and Law Enforcement
The .308 Winchester (as the 7.62x51mm NATO) has seen widespread use in military and law enforcement applications. Its effectiveness in semi-automatic and automatic rifles, as well as sniper rifles, has made it a staple in many armed forces around the world. The .303 British, while historically significant in military service, is no longer in widespread use by modern armed forces. Its rimmed design and lower operating pressure are not as well-suited for modern military rifles as the rimless, high-pressure .308.
Rifle Availability and Cost
.303 Rifles
Rifles chambered in .303 British are primarily older military rifles, such as the Lee-Enfield. These rifles are often available at relatively low prices, making them an affordable option for shooters interested in historical firearms. However, the availability of new production .303 rifles is limited, and spare parts can sometimes be difficult to find. The condition of older rifles can also vary widely, so it’s important to inspect them carefully before purchasing.
.308 Rifles
Rifles chambered in .308 Winchester are widely available from a variety of manufacturers, ranging from bolt-action hunting rifles to semi-automatic tactical rifles. The .308‘s popularity means that there is a vast selection of rifles to choose from, catering to a wide range of budgets and applications. New production rifles are readily available, and spare parts and accessories are plentiful. While the initial cost of a .308 rifle may be higher than that of a surplus .303, the long-term availability and support for the .308 make it a worthwhile investment for many shooters.
Ammunition Availability and Cost
.303 Ammunition
.303 British ammunition is generally available, but the selection is not as wide as that of the .308. Ammunition prices can vary depending on the brand and bullet type, but it is typically more expensive than .308 ammunition. Surplus military ammunition may be available at lower prices, but it is often of questionable quality and may not be suitable for accurate shooting or hunting. Reloading components for the .303 are readily available, allowing shooters to tailor their loads to specific rifles and applications. [See also: Reloading Basics]
.308 Ammunition
.308 Winchester ammunition is one of the most widely available centerfire rifle cartridges in the world. It is available in a vast array of bullet weights, designs, and price ranges, making it easy to find a load that suits your needs and budget. Ammunition prices are generally competitive, and bulk purchases can often result in significant savings. Reloading components for the .308 are also readily available, allowing shooters to create custom loads for maximum accuracy and performance.
Recoil
Recoil is a subjective factor that depends on several variables, including rifle weight, stock design, and ammunition load. Generally, the .308 Winchester produces more recoil than the .303 British. This is due to the .308‘s higher operating pressure and greater energy levels. However, the difference in recoil is not significant for most shooters, and both cartridges are manageable with proper shooting technique. Recoil pads and muzzle brakes can be used to further reduce felt recoil, making both cartridges more comfortable to shoot.
Conclusion
In the debate of .303 vs .308, both cartridges have their merits and drawbacks. The .303 British is a historically significant cartridge with a long and storied past. It is suitable for hunting at moderate ranges and can be an affordable option for shooters interested in vintage rifles. The .308 Winchester, on the other hand, is a more modern and versatile cartridge with higher velocity, flatter trajectory, and a wider selection of ammunition and rifles. It is a better choice for longer-range hunting, target shooting, and military/law enforcement applications. Ultimately, the best cartridge for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consider your intended use, the availability of rifles and ammunition, and your personal tolerance for recoil when making your decision. Both the .303 and the .308 are capable cartridges that have served shooters well for many years, and either can be a rewarding choice for the discerning rifle enthusiast.
