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  • Post category:Ammunition / Rifle Ammunition
  • Post last modified:April 5, 2024
  • Post published:March 11, 2021

Best 303 British Ammo - Editor's Choice

What is 303 British Ammo?🔰

This ammo, often referred to as .303 British or 7.7mm, is a .303-inch calibre (7.7 mm) rifle and machine gun cartridge first developed in Britain. It was used by the British Empire during many of its major conflicts in the 20th century, including both World Wars. Noted for its accuracy and substantial stopping power, the .303 British quickly gained respect among military personnel and hunters alike. Despite its military roots, it is now popular among civilian shooters for game hunting due to its excellent ballistics and wide availability of surplus firearms and ammunition.

Watch this video to find more information💻

Features🚩

The .303 British is renowned for its distinctive features, making it a favoured choice for both military use and game hunting.

  1. Substantial Stopping Power: One of the most notable features is its significant stopping power. This is attributed to its considerable kinetic energy upon impact, making it highly effective in neutralizing targets.
  2. Impressive Accuracy: Another key attribute is its remarkable accuracy. When fired from a well-maintained weapon, it can hit targets with precision at long ranges, making it a popular choice for sharpshooters.
  3. Versatility: The .303 British is incredibly versatile, with a wide range of bullet types available to suit different applications. From armour-piercing rounds for military use to expanding bullets for game hunting, there is a .303 British round perfect for any scenario.
  4. Wide Availability: Surplus .303 British firearms and ammunition are widely available and can be acquired at reasonable prices. This makes it a practical option for shooters on a budget.
  5. Excellent Ballistics: This ammo is known for its excellent ballistics. The standard round has a high muzzle velocity and a flat trajectory, making it an effective round over long distances.

In the hands of a skilled shooter, this ammo can deliver exceptional performance, living up to its reputation as a reliable and versatile ammunition choice.

Types📌

Ball: This is the most basic type. It is made with a lead core and a copper jacket. Ball ammo is typically used for hunting and target shooting. Hollow point: This type of ammo has a hollow point at the tip of the bullet. This allows the bullet to expand more quickly on impact, creating a larger wound channel. Hollow-point ammo is typically used for self-defence.
Soft point: This type of ammo has a soft lead core that is designed to expand on impact. This makes it a good choice for hunting larger game. Tracer: This type of ammo has a small tracer compound at the tip of the bullet. This compound burns when the bullet is fired, creating a visible trail that can be used to track the bullet’s flight path. Tracer ammo is typically used for military applications.

Popular Uses🔎

The .303 British has carved out a niche for itself thanks to its robust characteristics and versatility.

  1. 🟡 Military Use: It was an integral part of the British military arsenal in the 20th century. Its substantial stopping power, long-range accuracy, and variety of bullet types, including armour-piercing rounds, propelled it to the forefront of many conflicts, including the World Wars.
  2. 🟡 Hunting: In the civilian domain, it is a favoured cartridge among game hunters. Its impressive ballistics and potent stopping power make it an excellent choice for hunting medium to large games. The expanding bullets often used for these purposes ensure quick and humane kills.
  3. 🟡 Sport Shooting: This ammunition is also a popular option for sport shooting. It’s accuracy and consistent performance make it an attractive choice for competitive shooters looking to gain an edge in their competition.
  4. 🟡 Collecting: Given its historical significance, .303 British firearms and ammo have become popular collectables. Collectors appreciate the wide availability and reasonable pricing of these items, making it possible to amass a substantial collection without breaking the bank.

Best 303 British Ammo  | .303 British Ammo Review

ImageProductBrand
Winchester SUPER-X RIFLE 303 British Ammo 180 grainWinchesterBUY
Federal Premium Power-Shok 303 British Ammo 150 grainFederal PremiumBUY
Federal Premium Power-Shok 303 British Ammo 180 grainFederal PremiumBUY
Remington UMC Rifle 303 British Ammo 174 GrainRemingtonBUY
Remington Core-Lokt 303 British Ammo 180 GrainRemingtonBUY

#1 Winchester SUPER-X RIFLE 303 British Ammo 180 grain

Winchester SUPER-X RIFLE 303 British Ammo 180 grain View on OpticsPlanet

The Winchester Super-X Centerfire Rifle Ammunition in .303 British offers a lead-alloy, tipped bullet engineered for precise accuracy and formidable impact. It has been specifically designed for hunting small to medium games and even delivers impressive results on larger games, making it a versatile choice for various hunting applications. The incorporation of the PowerPoint soft lead-core enhances its performance, ensuring excellent expansion, retained weight, and terminal impact.

Pros:
  • Versatile Hunting Performance: It proves to be effective for both small and medium-sized games, as well as larger games, offering a wide range of hunting possibilities.
  • Precision and Impact: The lead-alloy, tipped bullet is engineered for exceptional accuracy and delivers an explosive impact upon the target, ensuring humane and effective hunting results.
  • Reliable Brand: Winchester has a longstanding reputation for producing quality ammunition, providing hunters with confidence in the product’s reliability and performance.
  • Adaptable Bullet: The combination of lead-alloy construction and PowerPoint technology makes this ammunition suitable for various game-hunting applications.
Cons:
  • Availability and Pricing: As the “best” .303 British ammo on the market, the Winchester Super-X may be in high demand, potentially leading to availability issues or higher pricing compared to other options.

#2 Federal Premium Power-Shok 303 British Ammo 150 grain

Federal Premium Power-Shok 303 British Ammo 150 grain View on OpticsPlanet

If you’ve been around rifles, whether hunting a buck or enjoying your lever-action rifle, chances are you’ve encountered Federal Power-Shok Centerfire Rifle Ammunition. This reputable company has garnered praise for the consistent quality of its products. As more shooters appreciate the value of owning a dependable rifle, the search for affordable yet reliable ammunition intensifies. This is precisely where this ammunition shines. With an extensive selection that covers almost all popular calibres, you can easily find the perfect match for your weapon. Federal continuously expands its line to cater to the diverse needs of shooters.

Video review

Pros:
  • Dependable Reputation: Federal’s solid reputation in the industry is built on the consistent quality of its ammunition, providing shooters with peace of mind.
  • Affordable Value: It offers excellent value without compromising on performance, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious shooters.
  • Extensive Caliber Options: With a wide range of calibre choices available, shooters can easily find the perfect match for their specific rifle.
  • Continuous Improvement: The Federal actively develops and expands its ammunition line to keep up with the evolving needs and preferences of shooters.
Cons:
  • Limited Specialty Loads: While this ammo is popular calibres, shooters seeking highly specialized or niche loads may need to explore other options.
  • Packaging: Some users have reported minor issues with packaging, but this does not affect the overall performance of the ammunition.

 

#3 Federal Premium Power-Shok 303 British Ammo 180 grain

Federal Premium Power-Shok 303 British Ammo 180 grain View on OpticsPlanet

The Federal Premium Power-Shok .303 British Rifle Ammo offers hunters an excellent balance of accuracy, power, and affordability. With a solid reputation for consistent performance, this ammunition is a reliable choice for hunters pursuing medium and big games. The use of quality components and the availability of versatile bullet designs further contribute to its appeal. However, those with extensive hunting excursions may need to consider additional purchases, and shooters with specialized projectile preferences may need to explore alternative ammunition types. Overall, this ammo presents an enticing option for hunters looking for reliable, budget-friendly ammunition to enhance their hunting experience.

Pros:
  • Dependable Performance: It consistently delivers proven performance, ensuring reliable and effective results in hunting scenarios.
  • Versatile Use: With load and bullet designs suitable for a wide range of games, from varmints to big games, this ammunition adapts to diverse hunting situations.
  • Affordable Choice: The ammunition is affordably priced, offering hunters a cost-effective solution without sacrificing performance.
  • Quality Components: Federal utilizes reliable brass, primers, and powder, instilling confidence in the ammunition’s overall quality and consistency.
Cons:
  • Limited Quantity: The 20-round package may not be sufficient for extended hunting trips, requiring additional purchases or carrying multiple boxes.
  • Projectile Type: While the jacketed soft point (JSP) design is effective for medium and big games, hunters seeking specific projectile types for niche applications may need to explore other options.

 

#4 Remington UMC Rifle 303 British Ammo 174 Grain

Remington UMC Rifle 303 British Ammo 174 Grain View on OpticsPlanet

For avid shooters seeking specialized high-volume target ammo, Remington UMC Centerfire Rifle Ammunition proves to be an ideal choice for both training sessions and varmint hunting. This ammunition features full metal jacket bullets, making it exceptionally well-suited for target shooting and plinking activities. The combination of reloadability and lightweight design makes it a valuable option for long-term training purposes. Moreover, for firearms utilizing .303-inch casings, this ammo stands out as a favourable choice, offering reduced recoil compared to other calibres.

Pros:
  • Versatile Use: It excels in both training scenarios and varmint hunting, catering to different shooting preferences.
  • Long-Term Training Solution: The reloadable feature and lightweight design make this ammunition an excellent choice for extended training sessions, supporting continuous skill development.
  • Reduced Recoil: Particularly advantageous for firearms using .303-inch casings, the ammo’s reduced recoil ensures a more comfortable shooting experience.
  • Durable Casing: Encased in nickel-plated brass, the ammunition enhances the round’s longevity, ensuring reliable performance over time.
Cons:
  • Not Ideal for Large Game: While suitable for varmint hunting, the lightweight design may not be optimal for taking down larger game animals.

 

#5 Remington Core-Lokt 303 British Ammo 180 Grain

Remington Core-Lokt 303 British Ammo 180 Grain View on OpticsPlanet

When it comes to enjoying your lever gun while hunting, using heavy, rattling bullets that cause excessive damage is far from ideal. That’s why countless hunters trust Remington Core-Lokt for their big game ammunition needs. The soft point design of these 180-grain bullets stands out for its remarkable accuracy and consistency, earning a reputation as one of the world’s most reliable choices. With a proven track record of performance on five continents, it has become the go-to ammunition for successful tag-filling hunts.

Pros:
  • Soft Point Design: The soft point design enhances accuracy and ensures reliable terminal performance, making it an effective choice for big game hunting.
  • Versatile Application: Whether for hunting, training, or target shooting, this ammo is a good choice for shooters.
  • Medium to Large Game: The ammunition’s powerful punch is suitable for taking down medium and large game animals.
Cons:
  • Limited Projectile Weight: For shooters looking for even heavier bullet options for certain hunting scenarios, the 180-grain weight may be the maximum available.

 

Reloading⚙️

For those who appreciate the DIY ethos or seek to cut their shooting costs, reloading this ammo is a viable and satisfying option.

  1.  📎 Affordability: Reloading your own ammo can be a cost-efficient practice in the long run, particularly for regular shooters. By saving and reusing the brass, you can significantly cut down on your ammunition expenses.
  2.  📎 Customization: Reloading gives you the ability to customize your loads. This means you can tailor your ammo to your specific needs, whether it’s achieving maximum accuracy at long ranges, optimizing for lower recoil, or creating a round that performs excellently in a particular firearm.
  3.  📎 Availability: Another benefit of reloading is ensuring availability. In times when ammunition is scarce or hard to come by, reloading your own can keep you shooting even when supply chains are interrupted.
  4.  📎 Skill Enhancement: Last but not least, reloading is a skill that enhances your understanding of ammunition and firearms. It allows you to delve deeper into the intricacies of your shooting equipment, improving your understanding of how different components and variables can affect the overall performance.

Here, we outline a comprehensive step-by-step guide to reloading your Ammo. Please note that it’s crucial to follow safety guidelines and legal regulations at all times when reloading.

  1. 📌 Materials and Equipment: Start by preparing all the necessary materials and equipment. These include the .303 British brass cases, primers, powder, bullets, and a reloading press. You will also need a case tumbler, a set of dies, a primer pocket cleaner, and a reloading manual.
  2. 📌 Cleaning: The first step in the actual reloading process is to clean your brass cases. Using a case tumbler, clean your brass to remove any dirt or residue.
  3. 📌 Inspect the Brass: Once cleaned, it’s essential to inspect each brass case for cracks, deformations, or any other visible damage. Do not use any cases that display signs of damage.
  4. 📌 Resizing and Decapping: Next, use your .303 British full-length resizing die to resize the brass. This process also removes the spent primer, known as decapping.
  5. 📌 Priming: With the old primer removed, you can now insert a new primer using your reloading press.
  6. 📌 Powder Charging: Now it’s time to charge the case with powder. Be sure to refer to your reloading manual for the correct type and amount of powder. Always measure your powder carefully to avoid dangerous overloads.
  7. 📌 Bullet Seating: The final step is seating the bullet. Again, use your reloading press and bullet seating die to seat the bullet into the case.
  8. 📌 Inspection: Once your rounds are loaded, inspect each one to ensure everything looks correct. Check for any visible issues, such as an improperly seated bullet or primer.
  9. 📌 Storage: Finally, store your newly loaded ammo in a cool, dry place, away from children and extreme temperatures.

Remember, each reloaded round should be handled with care and respect, as you would with commercially purchased ammunition. Happy reloading!

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FAQ🤠

Is .303 British Ammo corrosive or non-corrosive?

This ammo can be either corrosive or non-corrosive. The older military surplus ammo is typically corrosive, while newer commercial ammo is typically non-corrosive. The difference between corrosive and non-corrosive ammo is the type of primer used. Corrosive primers contain compounds that react with moisture to form acids, which can corrode the metal parts of a firearm. Non-corrosive primers do not contain these compounds, so they do not cause corrosion. If you are unsure whether your ammo is corrosive or non-corrosive, it is always best to err on the side of caution and clean your firearm thoroughly after shooting it. This will help to prevent any corrosion from occurring.

Here are some ways to tell if your  ammo is corrosive:

  • ✔️ Look at the headstamp of the cartridge. If the headstamp has a “B” in it, then the ammo is corrosive.
  • ✔️ Check the manufacturer’s website. Many manufacturers will list whether their ammo is corrosive or non-corrosive.
  • ✔️ Ask the seller. If you are buying ammo from a store, ask the salesperson if the ammo is corrosive or non-corrosive.

🟥 It is important to clean your firearm after shooting corrosive ammo. Here are the steps on how to do it:

  1. Remove the bolt from the rifle.
  2. Wipe down the inside of the barrel with a clean, dry cloth.
  3. Soak a patch in a cleaning solvent and run it through the barrel.
  4. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the patch comes out clean.
  5. Apply a light coat of gun oil to the inside of the barrel.
  6. Reassemble the rifle.

By following these steps, you can help prevent corrosion from occurring and extend the life of your firearm.

What are the main differences between .303 British ammo and 30 06 Ammo?

The .303 British and the .30-06 Springfield are two very similar cartridges, but there are a few key differences between them.

  • Case length: The .303 British case is slightly shorter than the .30-06 case. This means that the .303 British has a lower case capacity, which can affect the amount of powder that can be loaded into the cartridge.
  • Muzzle velocity and energy: The .30-06 has a slightly higher muzzle velocity and energy than the .303 British. This is because the .30-06 case can hold more powder, which allows for a higher pressure load.
  • Trajectory: The .30-06 has a flatter trajectory than the .303 British. This means that the .30-06 is more accurate at longer ranges.
  • Availability: The .30-06 is more widely available than the .303 British. This is because the .30-06 is a newer cartridge and is still in use by many militaries around the world.

In general, the .30-06 is a more powerful cartridge. However, the .303 British is still a very capable cartridge and is a good choice for hunting and target shooting.

What type of gunpowder should I use for .303 British Ammo reloading?

The best powder for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a powder that is accurate and consistent, then IMR 4064 or IMR 4895 are good choices. If you are looking for a powder that has long-range performance, then H414 is a good choice. If you are looking for a powder that is fast-burning, then H335 is a good choice.

⬜ It is important to note that the powder you choose will also depend on the bullet weight you are using. For example, if you are using a heavy bullet, you will need to use a slower-burning powder to achieve the desired muzzle velocity.

⬜ It is also important to follow the reloading data that is provided by the powder manufacturer. This data will give you the recommended load for your specific cartridge and bullet weight.

⬜ If you are new to reloading, it is a good idea to start with a medium-burning powder like IMR 4064 or IMR 4895. These powders are relatively easy to work with and will give you good results. As you become more experienced, you can experiment with different powders to find the one that best suits your needs.

What is the effective range for 303 British?

The effective range depends on a number of factors, including the type of ammunition used, the rifle’s accuracy, and the shooter’s skill. In general, however, the effective range of the .303 British round is considered to be between 200 and 600 yards.

✳️ At 200 yards, these rounds will still have enough energy to cause a fatal wound to most game animals. However, the accuracy of the round begins to decrease at this range, so it is important to be a good shot in order to make a kill.

✳️ At 600 yards, it will still be lethal, but it will be more difficult to make a kill. The round will also be less accurate at this range, so it is important to take into account the wind and other factors that can affect the trajectory of the bullet.

It is important to note that the effective range can vary depending on the specific rifle and ammunition used. Some rifles are more accurate than others, and some ammunition is designed for longer ranges than others. It is always a good idea to test your rifle and ammunition at different ranges to determine the effective range for your specific setup.

We believe this video can be helpful for you📺

What is the best bullet diameter for 303 British?

The best bullet diameter for .303 British ammunition is typically .311 inches (7.9 mm). However, it’s essential to note that .303 British rifles, especially those from various manufacturers and different production periods, may have slight variations in bore diameter. As a result, some rifles may perform optimally with bullets that are .312 inches (7.92 mm) in diameter.

🟣 To determine the most suitable bullet diameter for your specific .303 British rifle, it’s recommended to perform a “slugging” test. This involves carefully measuring the bore diameter of the rifle by using a soft lead bullet or a lead fishing sinker. Insert the lead slug into the barrel, and then tap it through using a cleaning rod until it reaches the muzzle. Measure the diameter of the slug with callipers to determine the actual bore diameter of your rifle.

🟣 Once you have this information, choose bullets that match the measured bore diameter or are slightly larger for best accuracy and performance. Generally, bullets with a diameter of .311 inches are widely used and should be suitable for many .303 British rifles, but .312-inch bullets may be preferred for some specific rifles with larger bore diameters. Always consult reloading manuals and experienced shooters to find the most appropriate bullet diameter for your rifle and intended use.

Conclusion 😎

The .303 British has secured its place in history due to its remarkable power, accuracy, and versatility. Its features and uses stretch far and wide, from the battlefield to the hunting field, the shooting range to the collector’s vault. The opportunity to reload this ammo adds another layer of appeal for those seeking cost efficiency, customization, and an elevated understanding of their ammunition. While every shooter’s needs and preferences may vary, there is no denying that the .303 British holds a unique charm that continues to stand the test of time. Whether you’re a novice shooter or a seasoned veteran, this ammunition offers a shooting experience that is truly hard to match.

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Derek
Derek
8 months ago

I decided to reload my 303 brasses.What is headspace, and why is it important in .303 British reloading?

    Natalia
    8 months ago
    Reply to  Derek

    Headspace refers to the distance between the face of the bolt and the point in the chamber where the cartridge’s base sits when the round is fully chambered. Proper headspace is critical to ensure safe and reliable functioning of the firearm. When reloading .303 British Ammo, it’s essential to ensure that the resized cases have correct headspace dimensions.

      Chameron
      Chameron
      8 months ago

      My uncle’s father-in-law Kenneth, at the ripe age of 78, bagged the largest deer I’ve ever seen with a .303 British. Prior to this, Kenneth, a farmer and a father to only daughters, had never ventured out for a hunting expedition. His first and only rifle, a surplus .303 British, was purchased in 1967 for a mere $11. The deer, a majestic 12-pointer with an inside spread of 26-1/2″, weighs an impressive 238 pounds even two days post-hunt. Its grandeur has warranted its place in the record books.

        Sharon
        Sharon
        8 months ago

        The “Queen’s Shoot” was a popular event in Australia, where participants would engage in a challenging test of precision and timing. They would aim at a nine-inch target from 900 yards away, using a .303 British rifle equipped with an aperture sight. Participants were required to fire ten rounds (equivalent to one magazine) within a span of ten minutes, all while maintaining a prone position. A well-maintained barrel could easily deliver minute-of-angle (MOA) accuracy at this distance. While achieving ten bulls was an exceptional feat, it was quite common to see scores of nine bulls and a hit in the 1-yard outer ring during these weekend competitions.

          Keke
          Keke
          8 months ago

          Hello. Thank you for this. There is not much information about 303 British.
          Is the .303 British round powerful enough to hunt with?

            Natalia
            8 months ago
            Reply to  Keke

            The .303 British round is a powerful enough round to hunt with, but it is not the most powerful round available. It is a .311 caliber round that was developed in 1888 by the British military. It was used in the Lee-Enfield rifle, which was the standard issue rifle for the British Army for many years.

            🚩 The .303 British round is capable of taking down a wide variety of game animals, including deer, moose, and even elk. However, it is not the best choice for hunting larger animals, such as bears or African game. For these animals, a more powerful round, such as the .30-06 Springfield or the .300 Winchester Magnum, would be a better choice.

            The .303 British round is also not the most accurate round available. It is a good round for hunting at short to medium ranges, but it is not as accurate as some other rounds at longer ranges.

            Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a round for hunting:

            🔻 The size and weight of the animal you are hunting
            🔻 The range at which you will be shooting
            🔻 Your own personal shooting skills

              Chris
              Chris
              8 months ago
              Reply to  Keke

              The .303, it’s a solid choice for practically anything you’d find in North America. It goes toe-to-toe with the .30-’06 in terms of ballistics. But here’s the thing, your choice of bullet matters a lot. You don’t want to go with a full metal jacket around. My best advice? Go for premium ammo or if you’re loading yourself, stick with high-quality hunting bullets. For deer or elk, it’s a good call. I mean, folks are bringing them down with 6 mm or .243 all the time.

                Allen
                Allen
                8 months ago
                Reply to  Keke

                The .303 British cartridge has demonstrated its effectiveness in successfully hunting a wide range of large and dangerous wild game, including elephants, rhinoceros, hippos, polar bears, Kodiak bears, tigers, cape buffalo, lions, and more. Its success can be attributed to knowledgeable shooters who understand the specific anatomy of each animal and place their shots with precision. Like any ammunition, when used effectively and skillfully, the .303 British proves to be a reliable and potent choice for hunting these formidable creatures.

                  Joe
                  Joe
                  8 months ago
                  Reply to  Keke

                  Absolutely, I once owned a WW1 sniper rifle that was chambered for the British 303. I even mounted a scope to it. I was able to take down a buck from a distance of 200 yards with just a single headshot.