· top picks · 7 min read
9 Best 308 NATO Rounds for Precision and Performance
Looking for the right 308 NATO round? Our comparison of popular ammo options helps you find reliable, high-velocity ammunition for your rifle.
The 308 NATO round, also known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, gained international recognition through its adoption by NATO member countries and has since become a preferred cartridge for military and civilian applications alike. This article examines the key features, performance characteristics, and applications of the 308 NATO round, highlighting its significance in modern warfare and target shooting.
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Reviews
Smith & Wesson N.A.T.O. Watch
At just 3 inches in diameter, the Smith & Wesson N. A. T. O. watch packs a lot of practical features into a comfortable, everyday-wear package. Its tough mineral glass face and crisp yellow dial make it easy to read, whether you’re on the water or just out and about. While some might point to its Chinese origins, others praise its solid build quality and surprisingly decent movement for the price.
Tate Whalun Matte Blue NATO Watch Strap
These matte blue NATO straps add a stylish personal touch to any watch, with their premium-grade nylon construction delivering lasting comfort and reliability. The adjustable stainless steel buckle ensures a secure fit on most wrists, while the gold-lacquered steel buckle adds a touch of elegance to the simple black strap design.
Luth AR Helical 1-Piece Gas Ring
Crafted from precision-molded materials, each gas ring is engineered for a perfect fit and lasting performance. The combination of durable construction and smooth operation makes these parts a trusted upgrade for anyone who demands reliability from their firearm.
Milano Straps - Nato Brown Italian Watch Strap
This durable Italian leather strap combines premium quality with practical design, featuring a single-piece construction that securely keeps the watch in place even during unexpected spring bar pops. At just 1mm thick, the double-layered leather strap efficiently clicks into place under the watch case, offering a clean look with no excess material to tuck or fold. The robust build quality and attention to detail, such as the premium hardware and elegant presentation, make it stand out in the crowded NATO strap market.
308 NATO Round Bullet HatClip
Hunters will appreciate this American-made clip that gives their hat some serious character. The sleek brass design, which has that nice lacquer finish, looks pretty cool too. You might get a few compliments when you wear it around - people love pointing out that unique hat clip.
Redding Small Base Body Die
Precision-engineered to extend case life by resizing the body and seating the shoulder with exceptional accuracy, these small base body dies require a careful touch with their generous 7/8”-14 threading and need for high-quality lubrication. The included storage box keeps them protected when not in use, while the recommended Competition Shellholders add that extra layer of control for match-grade results. Remember, these dies are for resizing brass cases and should never be used with live ammunition.
Black Rain Ejection Port Cover 308
Black Rain Ordnance has established itself as a prominent player in the firearms accessory market through its focus on modern sporting rifle components and premium-quality accessories. The 308 NATO round-specific ejection port cover from their BRO-EDC series demonstrates their commitment to enhancing rifle functionality and reliability. The cover’s compact design, measuring just over 8.25 inches in length, provides an effective solution for managing spent cartridges while maintaining the clean lines and operational efficiency of the firearm.
LBE AR 308 Barrel Nut
This reliable barrel nut has earned high praise from users who rely on it for critical shooting situations. The simple yet essential part proved itself time and again, with one reviewer noting its consistent performance in both competitive and practical shooting environments. Built to LBE Unlimited’s exacting standards, this little component adds another layer of reliability to your firearm.
WMD NiB-X Bcg Without Hammer 308
Crafted for enduring performance in demanding conditions, this. 308 Bolt Carrier Group delivers reliable operation and simplified maintenance. Designed specifically for DPMS platforms, it combines a 10-inch length with a lightweight 1.19-ounce design for precise handling and balanced performance.
Buyer’s Guide
The 308 NATO round, officially known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, has become increasingly popular among civilian shooters worldwide. Understanding key aspects of this cartridge can help you make an informed choice when selecting ammunition for your rifle.
Ballistic Characteristics
308 NATO rounds deliver consistent performance with reliable ballistics. The standard grain weight options range from 150 to 180 grains, with 168-grain bullets being the most common in civilian market applications. Understanding the weight and type of projectile you need is crucial based on your intended use, whether it’s varmint hunting, target shooting, or long-range competition.
Recoil and Handling
Recoil management varies with bullet weight, with lighter loads producing less felt recoil. Rifles chambered for 308 NATO typically handle well, but shooters with smaller frames or those new to cartridge recoil may need to consider lighter loads or break-in periods to develop proper shooting technique.
Cost and Availability
308 NATO ammunition is widely available through both online retailers and traditional brick-and-mortar stores, making it accessible for new and experienced shooters alike. Pricing varies by brand and type, with bulk purchases offering better value. Consider cost per round when budgeting for your shooting activities.
Storage and Maintenance
Proper maintenance of 308 NATO rifles includes regular cleaning and lubrication of the action to prevent corrosion. Store ammunition in cool, dry conditions away from direct sunlight. Check expiration dates on your stockpile and inspect cases for dents or damage before use to ensure reliable function.
FAQ
Caliber and Specifications
308 NATO rounds are a variant of the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. They measure 51mm in length and weigh approximately 8.5 grams, including the bullet and primer. The case uses a lead-core bullet with a diameter of 7.82mm (0.308 inches).
These cartridges typically feature a boat-tailed bullet design, which combines higher velocity with improved ballistic performance. Common bullet weights range from 150 to 175 grains, with higher weights offering better penetration while sacrificing some velocity.
Performance Characteristics
308 NATO rounds deliver flat trajectories and excellent consistency, making them suitable for both precision shooting and general-purpose applications. The cartridge reaches velocities between 2,600 and 2,800 feet per second (792-853 meters per second) with standard 168-grain bullets.
At 100 yards, the 308 NATO has a drop of approximately 4 inches (10 cm), compared to 6 inches for the 7.62x51mm. This makes it an ideal choice for medium-range engagements and target shooting.
Applications and Suitability
The 308 NATO excels in military, law enforcement, and competitive shooting applications. Its versatility allows for use in various firearms, including bolt-action rifles, semi-automatic rifles, and designated marksman rifles.
Its balance of power, accuracy, and reliability makes it suitable for both tactical operations and precision shooting competitions. The cartridge’s proven track record in modern warfare and its widespread adoption by military forces worldwide attest to its effectiveness.
Cost and Availability
308 NATO ammunition typically costs between $1.50 and $2.50 per round, depending on the manufacturer, bullet weight, and whether it’s new or surplus. Military-grade ammunition may be slightly cheaper than commercial alternatives.
Due to its popularity and military procurement, ammunition availability is generally stable. However, during times of conflict or political tension, certain manufacturers may experience shortages of specific calibers, particularly heavier bullet weights.
Compatibility and Firearm Requirements
The 308 NATO chambering requirement is minimal, as many modern firearms chambered for 7.62x51mm NATO will function properly with 308 NATO cartridges. This includes popular rifles such as the M16, M4, Springfield 556, and various Remington and Ruger models.
However, it’s important to verify that your firearm’s barrel length and chamber dimensions are compatible with 308 NATO ammunition. While many 7.62x51mm chambers can handle 308 NATO, shorter barrels may experience reliability issues with the longer cartridge.
Storage and Maintenance Requirements
308 NATO ammunition should be stored in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Proper storage conditions help maintain reliability and extend the service life of the ammunition.
For long-term storage, consider using moisture-proof containers and desiccants. Regularly inspect cartridges for signs of primer deterioration or case corrosion. Proper maintenance of firearms chambered for 308 NATO ensures reliable function and optimal performance.
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