When it comes to reliable rifle cartridges, the 308 Winchester continues to hold a strong position in Australia and around the world. Known for its versatility and effectiveness in both hunting and target shooting, the 308 Winchester is a go-to choice for many firearm enthusiasts.
In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about 308 Winchester ballistics — from velocity and energy to bullet drop and practical uses.
What is the 308 Winchester?
The 308 Winchester is a rifle cartridge introduced in the 1950s by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. It was originally designed for military use but quickly gained popularity among hunters and sport shooters. This cartridge is often compared to the 7.62×51mm NATO round, which is very similar but has minor pressure differences.
The 308 Winchester is popular in Australia due to its accuracy, availability, and adaptability for different shooting conditions and wildlife types.
Why Choose the 308 Winchester?
There are several reasons why shooters continue to trust the 308 Winchester:
- Reliable Performance – It offers consistent accuracy up to medium and long ranges.
- Versatility – Works well for hunting deer, pigs, and even larger game with the right bullet.
- Availability – Ammo is widely available in Australia and reasonably priced.
- Manageable Recoil – It provides a good balance of power and recoil, making it suitable for a wide range of shooters.
308 Winchester Ballistic Overview
Understanding the ballistics of the 308 Winchester helps in choosing the right bullet and load for your shooting needs. Here’s a basic overview:
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lb) |
| 150 gr | 2,800 | 2,615 |
| 165 gr | 2,700 | 2,670 |
| 180 gr | 2,600 | 2,700 |
These numbers may vary depending on the barrel length, ammunition brand, and environmental conditions.
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Bullet Drop and Trajectory
Bullet drop is one of the key factors to consider when using the 308 Winchester. Here’s an approximate bullet drop chart for a 150-grain bullet zeroed at 100 yards:
- 100 metres: 0 cm (zero point)
- 200 metres: –7.5 cm
- 300 metres: –27 cm
- 400 metres: –65 cm
- 500 metres: –123 cm
The 308 Winchester maintains a relatively flat trajectory up to 300 metres, which makes it ideal for most hunting and tactical applications in Australia.
Recoil and Shootability
Compared to more powerful calibres like the .300 Win Mag, the 308 Winchester has manageable recoil. This makes it suitable for beginners as well as experienced shooters who want to reduce fatigue during long sessions.
In standard hunting rifles, recoil is generally between 15 to 18 ft-lb, which is tolerable for most people. Using a recoil pad or suppressor can further reduce this.
Ideal Bullet Weights for Different Uses
The 308 Winchester supports a variety of bullet weights. Choosing the right one depends on your intended use:
- 150 gr – Good for small to medium game and target shooting.
- 165 gr – Offers a good balance of penetration and energy. Suitable for deer and pigs.
- 180 gr – Better for larger game like red deer and rugged terrain shots.
For Australian hunters, the 165 gr bullet is often a sweet spot as it performs well on common game animals like goats, pigs, and deer.
Barrel Length and Performance
Barrel length can affect the performance of your 308 Winchester rifle. In general:
- A 20–24 inch barrel offers optimal velocity and accuracy.
- A 16-inch barrel reduces velocity by around 150–200 fps but is lighter and easier to handle.
Hunters who trek long distances might prefer a shorter barrel, while precision shooters often go for the longer ones.
How Wind Affects the 308 Winchester
Wind drift is another important consideration for long-range shooters. At 300 metres, a 10 km/h crosswind can move a 150-grain bullet about 12–14 cm off target. While the 308 Winchester is reasonably resistant to wind compared to smaller calibres, it’s important to factor this in when making long-range shots.
Handloading the 308 Winchester
Handloading is a popular option among Australian shooters looking to fine-tune their performance. The 308 Winchester responds well to a variety of powders and primers, making it easy to develop custom loads.
Whether you’re aiming for tighter groups on the range or maximum energy transfer in the field, handloading allows greater control over bullet weight, velocity, and trajectory.
Common Rifles Chambered in 308 Winchester
Many popular rifles are chambered in 308 Winchester, including:
- Tikka T3x
- Howa 1500
- Ruger American Rifle
- Savage Axis
- Remington 700
These rifles offer great value and performance for Australian shooters, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hunter.
Is the 308 Winchester Still Relevant in 2025?
Absolutely. While newer cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor and .300 PRC have gained attention, the 308 Winchester continues to hold its own. It’s still widely used by military, police, hunters, and precision shooters.
Its combination of power, reliability, and availability makes it a dependable choice — especially in the Australian outback, where access to specialised ammunition may be limited.
Safety and Legal Considerations in Australia
Before using a 308 Winchester rifle, ensure that you:
- Have the proper firearms licence
- Comply with state laws regarding hunting and range shooting
- Store your firearms and ammunition securely
It’s also recommended to sight-in your rifle and practise regularly to ensure accurate and humane shots when hunting.
Final Thoughts
The 308 Winchester remains one of the most trusted and widely used rifle cartridges in Australia. Whether you’re chasing pigs in the bush, targeting deer in the highlands, or simply enjoying range shooting, the 308 Winchester offers reliable ballistics, manageable recoil, and impressive versatility.
If you’re planning to invest in a rifle or looking to upgrade your current gear, don’t overlook the proven performance of the 308 Winchester. It’s a cartridge that has stood the test of time — and continues to deliver in 2025 and beyond.
