.308 vs 7.62x51: Are They the Same?
.308 Winchester and 7.62x51mm NATO share nearly the same outside dimensions, but they differ in chamber specs and how pressure is measured. Many rifle makers state their .308 rifles can fire 7.62x51; whether a 7.62x51 military rifle should fire commercial .308 depends on the rifle. Always follow your manufacturer.
At a Glance
| .308 Winchester | 7.62x51 NATO | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Commercial (Winchester) | Military (NATO) |
| Common bullet weights (our listings) | 150, 165, 168, 175, 180 gr | Mostly 147 to 150 gr FMJ |
| Typical use | Hunting, match, general | Military surplus rifles, range |
| Shop | .308 ammo | 7.62x51 ammo |
.308 vs 7.62x51 Ballistics
Factory figures for common .308 Winchester loads and a 7.62x51mm NATO match load.
Load key: FMJ = full metal jacket; BTHP = boat-tail hollow point.
| Load (Federal data) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lb) |
|---|---|---|
| Federal American Eagle (AE308D) 308 Win 150 gr FMJ Boat-Tail |
2820 | 2648 |
| Federal Gold Medal Match (GM308M) 308 Win 168 gr Sierra Matchking BTHP |
2650 | 2619 |
| Federal Gold Medal Match (GM762M2) 7.62x51mm NATO 175 gr Sierra Matchking BTHP |
2600 | 2627 |
Figures are as published by Federal Premium on each product page (checked October 30, 2026). Velocity from your own barrel will differ.
What Is Different
The two are measured and specified by different standards bodies (SAAMI for .308, NATO for 7.62x51), and military chambers and cases can differ from commercial ones. The differences are small but real.
Which Rifles Can Fire Which
Check your rifle's manual or barrel markings. Many modern .308 rifle makers approve 7.62x51. Some older military rifles chambered for 7.62x51 have specific ammo guidance from their makers.
Which to Buy
For hunting and precision, .308 offers far more bullet choices. For high-volume practice, 7.62x51 FMJ is a common budget option.
Shop Both
.308 ammo | 7.62x51 ammo | bolt-action rifles | semi-auto rifles. Compare current cost per round in our Ammo Price Index, see every cartridge in our ammo caliber chart.
Orders of $500 or more ship free; ammunition orders under $500 ship for $15.99. Ammunition is not returnable. Some states and cities restrict ammo purchases or shipments, so read our ammo and magazine laws by state before ordering. Tactical Surplus USA has been selling firearms, ammunition and gear since 2022.
FAQ
Can I shoot 7.62x51 in a .308 rifle?
Many makers say yes, but check your rifle's manual.
Can I shoot .308 in a 7.62x51 rifle?
It depends on the rifle. Follow your manufacturer's guidance.
Is 7.62x51 the same as 7.62x39?
No. 7.62x39 is a much shorter AK cartridge.
What does SAAMI say about 7.62x51 in a .308?
SAAMI says ammo made to military specs should only be used in firearms marked for that military cartridge, and that military chambers can have headspace that is excessive for commercial ammo. Follow your firearm maker's guidance.
Is 7.62x51 more powerful than .308?
Not necessarily. Pressure is measured differently for each, and published figures vary by load.
Which is better for hunting?
.308 Winchester, because far more hunting bullets are loaded for it.