.308 vs .30-06: Head to Head

If you're a big game hunter, you're no stranger to the ongoing debate surrounding .308 Winchester vs .30-06 Springfield cartridges. With deep-rooted histories in war and hunting, these two cartridges have assembled a dedicated following, sparking passionate conversations among firearm enthusiasts.

In this guide, you’ll learn about the cartridge's specs, ballistics, firearms, and more. We’ll put emotions aside to determine whether the .308 or .30-06 cartridge reigns supreme.

Both cartridges share a .308-inch bullet diameter, establishing a common ground in their ballistic capabilities. However, a significant distinction lies in their cartridge case lengths. The .30-06 boasts a case length of 2.494 in. The .308 features a 2.015-inch case, setting the stage for differences in performance.

When it comes to velocity and recoil, the .30-06 outpaces the .308. It delivers higher speeds and a more substantial recoil — further setting these cartridges apart. Below, we’ll break down their specs regarding parent casing, max pressure, and more.

You can use the following definitions to better understand bullet specifications and the characteristics of different cartridges. These definitions provide essential information for comparing and choosing the right ammunition for your needs.

• Parent Casing: The original cartridge case from which a new cartridge is derived.

• Bullet Diameter: The bullet diameter is the diameter of the bullet without its casing.

• Neck Diameter: The measurement of the cartridge case diameter between the case's body and mouth.

• Case Length: The measurement of the cartridge case itself, excluding the bullet. It indicates the length of the empty cartridge case.

• Overall Length: The measurement from the top of the bullet to the bottom of its casing indicates the loaded cartridge's total length.

• Case Capacity: The volume inside the cartridge case that can hold liquid, typically measured when the bullet is not yet inserted.

• Max Pressure (SAAMI): SAAMI stands for Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute, which sets industry standards for ammunition. Max Pressure (SAAMI) represents the maximum safe pressure levels for ammunition.

When comparing the .308 and .30-06 cartridges, there are slight differences and unique advantages. The .30-06 offers greater case capacity, making it suitable for reloaders and providing more range and firepower.

In contrast, the .308 is known for accuracy and affordability, making it popular in target shooting. It also has a friendlier recoil and is lighter for hunting trips. Your choice depends on your specific preferences and whether reloading is a factor.

The Hornady Precision Hunter .308 Winchester Ammunition weighs 178 grains. It offers terminal performance with a muzzle velocity of 2600 fps and can hold 20 rounds. Similarly, the Hornady Precision Hunter .30-06 Springfield weighs 178 grains and can hold 20 rounds. It achieves a slightly higher muzzle velocity of 2750 fps.

Both of these cartridges rank among the best performing in their class, delivering reliability and precision for hunters. Review our table to learn more about the main differences between the .308 and .30-06.

Both the .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield cartridges are popular choices for hunting. They cater to different types of game due to their distinct ballistic characteristics.

• The .308 Winchester is ideal for medium to large-sized game. Hunters choose the .308 for hunting deer, hogs, and rams.

• The .30-06 Springfield is more reliable for larger game such as grizzlies and elk. Its enhanced range and impact make it a go-to choice for hunting bigger animals.

The ballistic coefficient (BC) of a cartridge or round measures its ability to overcome air resistance while in flight. The BC will be higher if the round is more sleek, narrow, and heavy. A higher BC contributes to increased velocity, meaning a straighter trajectory and less likelihood of wind drift.

• When it comes to the .308, a round-nosed 180-grain round achieves a BC of .248. A pointed 190-grain .308 round has a BC of .495.

• In comparison, the .30-06 Springfield 165-grain bullet boasts a BC of .339. While the .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield show minimal differences in ballistics, the .30-06 generally offers better energy performance.

With a difference in muzzle velocity of only 25 fps, it can be difficult to tell the difference in performance between the .30-06 vs .308. See how they compare when it comes to the size of the game and shooting distance.

• At a distance of 300 yards, the .308 Winchester shows velocity 20 fps less than the .30-06. This similarity makes it a reliable choice for medium-range hunting.

• A closer ranges (less than 500 yards) the .30-06 Springfield excels in velocity, which can be helpful when hunting big game. Despite minor differences, this cartridge maintains a slight edge over the .308.

In terms of recoil, both the .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield fall in the mid-range category. Factors like the use of a suppressor and shooter technique can influence the felt recoil.

• The .308 Winchester typically produces a lighter felt recoil compared to the .30-06. This lighter recoil can be helpful for beginners or those sensitive to kickback.

• The .30-06 Springfield generates more recoil than the .308. This increased recoil is a trade-off for its higher power and longer-range capabilities.

If you want to practice at the range, the .308 Winchester is a more cost-effective option. Both cartridges generally come at a relatively lower price.

• The .308 Winchester typically ranges in price from $0.40 to $2.50 per round. This price range makes it affordable for regular practice and extensive use.

• On average, the .30-06 Springfield costs between $1.20 and $2.50 per round. While slightly more expensive than the .308, it remains a reasonably priced option for its capabilities.

At a distance of 300 yards, both the .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield experience an average bullet drop of around 13 inches. See how they compare at 500 yards.

• At 300 yards, the .308 Winchester typically sees a bullet drop of about 10-12 inches. Extending the range to 500 yards, the drop increases to approximately 56 inches.

• For the .30-06 Springfield, the bullet drop at 300 yards is generally around 8-10 inches. At a distance of 500 yards, the bullet drop is about 55.3 inches, nearly identical to the .308.

Both the .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield pack a ton of energy. Below is a comparison of their energy outputs.

• The .308 delivers approximately 1,900-2,800 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, depending on the grain. This offers substantial power for various shooting applications. Increasing the bullet grain will always increase the energy of the round.

• The .30-06 produces roughly 2,000-3,300 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, making it a powerful choice for larger game. If you’re new to hunting big game, another option includes the .30-30 Winchester, which averages 1,890 ft-lbs.

The .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield have similar effective ranges with lighter bullets. However, the .30-06 gains an advantage when using heavier bullets.

• The .308 Winchester has an effective range of 300 yards, depending on the grain. You won’t achieve great results if you push it to 400 yards.

• The .30-06 Springfield can maintain effectiveness at ranges exceeding 1,000 yards for the heaviest grain bullets. Its sweet spot is 800 yards for hunting.

Ready to plan your next hunting trip? At Academy, we offer a range of .308 Winchester Rifles and .30-06 ​​Springfield Rifles for all of your big game hunting needs. Prepare for hunting or target shooting with our selection of .308 and .30-06 ammunition. Let one of these cartridges take your game to the next level! Big-game hunting season will never be the same again.