.30 cal question

[ArmyBrat61]

My Dad and I were discussing military calibers/weapons that he used in service. The conversation wandered around the 30.06 and 7.62x51...Garand versus M14....both .30 caliber yet one is a "full battle round" and the x51 is a "target round" (his words not mine). The only difference I can find between the two is case length and diameter.....so one holds more powder....but they use the same projectile...correct? I know better than to argue with the stubborn old Yankee.....since he carried both in service..... but is there any real difference between the two cartridges? Could I use the same 150gr FMJBT in both cases with different powder charges? I say yes...he says no....a steak dinner lies in the balance...help !  :D

[mikegideon]

My Dad and I were discussing military calibers/weapons that he used in service. The conversation wandered around the 30.06 and 7.62x51...Garand versus M14....both .30 caliber yet one is a "full battle round" and the x51 is a "target round" (his words not mine). The only difference I can find between the two is case length and diameter.....so one holds more powder....but they use the same projectile...correct? I know better than to argue with the stubborn old Yankee.....since he carried both in service..... but is there any real difference between the two cartridges? Could I use the same 150gr FMJBT in both cases with different powder charges? I say yes...he says no....a steak dinner lies in the balance...help !  :D

 

The differences (ballistics) between them is very small. The 7.62 x 51 (.308 Winchester) was designed as a direct, short action replacement for the 30-06.

Edited May 1, 2015 by mikegideon

[RED333]

To answer your question, yes.

http://www.luckygunner.com/lounge/308-win-vs-30-06/

http://www.imrpowder.com/data/rifle/30-06-2005apr03.php

http://www.imrpowder.com/data/rifle/308win-2005apr03.php

[ArmyBrat61]

Red...I owe you a beer or beverage of your choice....that Lucky Gunner article is exactly what I'm looking for. Thank you.