308 Win vs 5.56 NATO: Comparing Power and Versatility in Modern Rifles

The .308 Winchester and 5.56 NATO are two popular rifle cartridges with distinct characteristics and uses. Both have proven themselves on battlefields and in civilian applications. The .308 Win excels at long-range shooting and big game hunting, while the 5.56 NATO is better suited for close-range engagements and offers less recoil.

These cartridges differ in size, power, and performance. The .308 Win fires a heavier bullet with more energy, making it effective out to 1000 yards. The 5.56 NATO, on the other hand, is typically effective up to 400-500 yards. This difference in range and power impacts their suitability for various shooting scenarios.

Choosing between these two cartridges depends on the intended use, shooting style, and personal preferences. The .308 Win offers versatility for hunting and long-range shooting, while the 5.56 NATO shines in tactical situations and for shooters who prefer less recoil. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each cartridge helps shooters make informed decisions.

Key Takeaways

• The .308 Win offers superior long-range performance and versatility for hunting.
• 5.56 NATO excels in close-range tactical situations with less recoil.
• Both cartridges have proven military and civilian applications.

Historical Development

The .308 Winchester and 5.56 NATO cartridges have rich histories rooted in military needs. Both rounds were developed to meet specific combat requirements and later gained popularity in civilian markets.

Origins of .308 Winchester

The .308 Winchester came about in the early 1950s. It started as a shorter version of the .30-06 Springfield cartridge. Winchester introduced it for their Model 70 rifle in 1952. The U.S. military soon adopted a similar round as the 7.62x51mm NATO.

This cartridge was designed for use in the M14 rifle, which replaced the M1 Garand. The .308 Win quickly gained fame for its accuracy and power. Hunters and target shooters embraced it for its versatility.

The .308 Win proved effective for medium to large game. Its success in both military and civilian use helped it become one of the most popular rifle cartridges worldwide.

Evolution of 5.56 NATO

The 5.56 NATO’s story began in the late 1950s. The U.S. military wanted a lighter, faster round for their new M16 rifle. They based it on the .223 Remington, a civilian cartridge.

ArmaLite and Remington worked together to create this new round. The goal was a cartridge that allowed soldiers to carry more ammo. It also needed to be accurate and have less recoil than larger calibers.

The military adopted the 5.56 NATO in 1963. It saw extensive use in Vietnam. The round’s high velocity and light weight made it popular. Civilian shooters soon embraced it too, especially for varmint hunting and target shooting.

Physical Characteristics

The .308 Winchester and 5.56 NATO differ significantly in their physical makeup. These differences affect their performance and suitability for various applications.

Bullet Dimensions

The .308 Winchester uses a larger bullet diameter of .308 inches (7.62mm), while the 5.56 NATO bullet measures .224 inches (5.56mm) in diameter. This size difference impacts terminal ballistics and penetration.

The .308 Win’s larger diameter allows for heavier bullets, typically ranging from 150 to 180 grains. These heftier projectiles contribute to its reputation for greater stopping power and long-range effectiveness.

In contrast, 5.56 NATO bullets are smaller and lighter. Common weights range from 55 to 77 grains. The smaller size allows for higher velocities and flatter trajectories at shorter ranges.

Cartridge Cases

The .308 Winchester cartridge case is larger than the 5.56 NATO. It measures 2.015 inches in length, compared to the 5.56’s 1.760 inches.

The .308’s larger case capacity allows for more powder, resulting in higher muzzle energies. This extra power translates to improved long-range performance and greater impact on target.

5.56 NATO cases, being smaller, hold less powder. This design suits its intended role as an intermediate cartridge for assault rifles. The smaller size also allows for increased ammunition capacity in magazines.

Projectile Weights

.308 Winchester bullets typically weigh between 150 and 180 grains. Some specialty loads may go as low as 110 grains or as high as 200 grains.

These heavier projectiles retain energy well over long distances. They’re often chosen for big game hunting and long-range target shooting.

5.56 NATO bullets are much lighter, usually between 55 and 77 grains. The most common weights are 55 and 62 grains.

Lighter bullets allow for higher velocities, which can lead to increased tissue damage at close range. They’re also less affected by wind drift at shorter distances.

The weight difference significantly impacts recoil. .308 Win produces noticeably more felt recoil than 5.56 NATO, affecting follow-up shot speed and shooter fatigue.

Ballistics and Performance

The .308 Winchester and 5.56 NATO differ greatly in their ballistic performance. These differences impact their effectiveness at various ranges and for different purposes.

Muzzle Velocity

The 5.56 NATO generally has a higher muzzle velocity than the .308 Winchester. A typical 5.56 NATO round with a 55-grain bullet can reach velocities between 3000 and 3300 fps. This high speed gives it excellent performance at short to medium ranges.

The .308 Winchester, with its heavier bullets, typically has lower muzzle velocities. A common 150-grain .308 load might have a muzzle velocity around 2800 fps. Despite the lower speed, the .308’s heavier bullets maintain their velocity better over distance.

Trajectory Comparison

The 5.56 NATO has a flatter trajectory due to its higher velocity and lighter bullets. This makes it easier to hit targets at varying distances without adjusting the sight picture as much.

The .308 Winchester has a more curved trajectory. At longer ranges, shooters need to account for more bullet drop. But the .308’s heavier bullets are less affected by wind, making it more predictable in challenging conditions.

Typical maximum effective ranges:

• 5.56 NATO: 300-400 yards
• .308 Winchester: 800-1000 yards

Energy Delivered on Target

The .308 Winchester delivers more energy on target due to its larger, heavier bullets. This makes it more effective for hunting larger game and for situations requiring more stopping power.

A 150-grain .308 bullet might deliver over 2600 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle. In contrast, a 55-grain 5.56 NATO round typically produces around 1200 ft-lbs of muzzle energy.

The 5.56 NATO’s lower recoil allows for faster follow-up shots and makes it easier to control in rapid-fire situations. This can be advantageous in certain tactical scenarios or for smaller-framed shooters.

Rifles Chambered for Each Caliber

The .308 Winchester and 5.56 NATO calibers are used in a variety of popular rifles. Each caliber has its own set of firearms designed to maximize its performance and capabilities.

.308 Winchester Rifles

The .308 Winchester is commonly used in bolt-action hunting rifles and semi-automatic tactical rifles. Many bolt-action rifles like the Remington 700 and Winchester Model 70 are chambered for this round.

For tactical use, the AR-10 platform is a popular choice. It’s similar to the AR-15 but larger to accommodate the .308 cartridge. The AR-10 is known for its weight, which can be a drawback in some situations.

Other .308 rifles include the M14/M1A, FN SCAR 17, and various precision bolt-action rifles used by military and law enforcement snipers.

5.56 NATO Rifles

The 5.56 NATO is most famously used in the AR-15 platform, which includes the military M16 and M4 rifles. These lightweight, semi-automatic rifles are popular for their versatility and modularity.

Other 5.56 NATO rifles include the Ruger Mini-14, IWI Tavor, and FN SCAR 16. These offer different designs and features while using the same caliber.

Many countries have adopted 5.56 NATO rifles for their armed forces. The cartridge’s light recoil makes it easier to control in full-auto fire.

Police sniper units often prefer .308 rifles for their longer effective range, while many patrol officers use 5.56 NATO rifles for their lighter weight and higher capacity.

Applications and Use Cases

The .308 Win and 5.56 NATO rounds have different strengths that make them suitable for various scenarios. Each cartridge excels in specific areas due to its unique ballistic properties and design features.

Hunting Scenarios

The .308 Winchester is a popular choice for big game hunting. Its power and long-range accuracy make it effective for medium to large animals like deer, elk, and boar. Hunters appreciate the .308’s ability to deliver clean, ethical kills at longer distances.

The 5.56 NATO, while less powerful, is still useful for hunting. It’s best suited for smaller game and varmints. Coyotes, prairie dogs, and similar-sized animals are ideal targets for this round. The 5.56’s lower recoil allows for quick follow-up shots, which can be helpful when hunting fast-moving or multiple targets.

Both cartridges can be used for hunting, but their effectiveness depends on the game size and hunting conditions.

Military and Law Enforcement

Both cartridges have strong military backgrounds. The 5.56 NATO is the standard infantry rifle round for many NATO countries. It’s valued for its light weight, allowing soldiers to carry more ammunition. The round’s high velocity and low recoil make it effective in close-quarter combat and for suppressive fire.

The .308 Win, similar to the 7.62x51mm NATO, is often used in designated marksman rifles and machine guns. Its greater power and range make it suitable for engaging targets at longer distances. Law enforcement snipers often prefer the .308 for its accuracy and stopping power in critical situations.

Sport Shooting and Competition

Both cartridges are popular in various shooting sports. The 5.56 NATO is common in 3-gun competitions and tactical shooting events. Its low recoil allows for fast, accurate follow-up shots. Many AR-15 style rifles chambered in 5.56 are used in these competitions.

The .308 Win shines in long-range precision shooting contests. Its stability and energy retention at distance make it a top choice for competitions like F-Class and Precision Rifle Series. The cartridge’s accuracy potential allows skilled shooters to consistently hit targets at 1000 yards and beyond.

Both rounds are used in various target shooting disciplines, from casual plinking to serious competitive events.

Ammunition Availability and Cost

The .308 Winchester and 5.56 NATO rounds are both popular cartridges, but they differ in terms of availability and cost.

5.56 NATO ammunition is generally more abundant and less expensive. This makes it a go-to choice for regular range practice and high-volume shooting.

On average, 5.56 NATO ammo costs between $15 and $20 per box. This affordability contributes to its widespread use among civilian shooters and law enforcement.

In contrast, .308 Winchester ammunition is typically pricier. A box of .308 Win ammo can range from $25 to $70, with most options falling between $35 and $40.

The price difference is largely due to the .308’s larger size and heavier components. These factors increase production costs, which are passed on to consumers.

Both cartridges are readily available at most gun stores and online retailers. However, 5.56 NATO may be easier to find during times of high demand or ammunition shortages.

For budget-conscious shooters or those who practice frequently, the lower cost of 5.56 NATO can be a significant advantage. The .308 Win, while more expensive, remains popular for its power and long-range capabilities.

Recoil and Shooter Experience

The 308 Win and 5.56 NATO differ significantly in recoil. This affects how shooters handle each cartridge.

The 5.56 NATO produces less felt recoil. It feels more like a gentle push than a sharp jab. Most shooters can manage this recoil easily, even during long shooting sessions.

In contrast, the 308 Win has a more noticeable kick. This stronger recoil can lead to shooter fatigue over time. It may also impact accuracy, especially for less experienced shooters.

The 5.56 NATO’s lower recoil makes it a good choice for new shooters. It allows for quicker follow-up shots and easier target acquisition. This can be helpful in fast-paced shooting scenarios.

The 308 Win’s stronger recoil requires more skill to manage. Experienced shooters often prefer this challenge. They may find the 308’s power satisfying, despite the increased recoil.

Recoil also affects firearm design. The 5.56 NATO’s lower recoil allows for lighter, more compact rifles. The 308 Win often requires heavier rifles to help absorb the stronger recoil.

Regulatory Considerations

The .308 Winchester and 5.56 NATO rounds have different regulations for civilian use.

In the United States, the .308 Winchester is widely available for hunting and sport shooting. It faces few restrictions in most states.

The 5.56 NATO, being a military cartridge, has some additional regulations. Many civilian rifles are chambered for .223 Remington instead, which is almost identical.

Some countries have stricter rules for military-style ammunition. This can affect the availability of 5.56 NATO rounds for civilian use.

Bullet weight and design also impact regulations. Hollow point bullets may face more restrictions than full metal jacket rounds.

Rifle design can influence legal status. AR-15 style rifles in 5.56 may be more regulated than bolt-action .308 rifles in some jurisdictions.

Hunters should check local laws carefully. Some areas restrict cartridge use for certain game animals based on caliber or energy.

Magazine capacity limits may apply differently to rifles chambered in these calibers. This varies by location.

Always consult current local, state, and federal regulations before purchasing or using either caliber. Laws can change frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 5.56 NATO and .308 Winchester rounds differ in size, power, and use. These two popular cartridges have distinct characteristics that affect their performance and applications.