• Reading time:42 mins read
  • Post category:Ammunition / Rifle Ammunition
  • Post last modified:April 5, 2024
  • Post published:March 25, 2021

What is the Best 308 Ammo? 👀

The .308 Winchester ammunition, commonly referred to as “308 ammo,” is a popular rifle cartridge that offers a good balance between power and recoil. Introduced in 1952, it was derived from the 7.62x51mm NATO military round, though the civilian variant has slightly higher pressure limits than the military version. Originally developed by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, it quickly became one of the most popular short-action, big-game hunting cartridges worldwide.

The history is closely tied to its military counterpart, the 7.62x51mm NATO. As armies transitioned from the heavier .30-06 Springfield rounds after World War II, there was a demand for a shorter cartridge that could still deliver reliable power. As a result, the 7.62 NATO was developed and shortly thereafter, its commercial variant, the .308 Winchester, was released for civilian use.

Its versatility and performance have made it a preferred choice for various applications. Hunters appreciate its ability to take down medium to large-sized games at reasonable distances, while sport shooters value it for its accuracy and relatively mild recoil.

Moreover, the 7.62x51mm variant has been used extensively by militaries around the world, and as such, firearms chambered in this caliber are common among military and police forces. Furthermore, its accuracy and power have made it a popular choice for precision shooting and long-range competitions. In summary, it has earned a prominent place in the annals of ammunition due to its adaptability, performance, and wide scope of use.

Best-308-Ammo

Benefits 🔥

✅ The .308 Winchester, often simply referred to as the .308, is one of the most versatile and widely recognized cartridges in the shooting world. Its primary benefit lies in its adaptability to a range of shooting scenarios. From hunting medium to large games to precision target shooting and even military and police applications, it has proven its worth time and again. Its moderate recoil, combined with substantial energy delivery, makes it suitable for a broad spectrum of shooters, from novices to seasoned marksmen.

✅ Another significant advantage is its global popularity. This widespread use ensures that ammunition is readily available in various loads, catering to different needs. Whether one is looking for rapid expansion for hunting or match-grade precision for target shooting, there’s likely a load tailored for the purpose. This ubiquity also often translates to more competitive pricing and a wide range of firearm platforms chambered for the cartridge.

Our Top Pick
Winchester DEER SEASON XP 308 Winchester Ammo 150 Grain
Experience the exceptional Extreme Point bullet, with its expansive polymer tip for rapid expansion upon impact. This innovative design yields larger wound channels, ensuring more humane kills when you've got that one crucial shot.
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Features 😎

☑️ It boasts several distinctive features that contribute to its enduring appeal. Its case design, which has inspired several other cartridges, offers efficient powder combustion. This ensures consistent velocities and performance, which is especially crucial for long-range shooting where consistency can mean the difference between a hit or a miss.

☑️ Can accommodate a broad range of bullet weights, typically ranging from 110 grains up to 180 grains or more. This flexibility allows the cartridge to be optimized for various tasks, from varmint control with lighter, faster bullets to taking down larger games with heavier, more penetrative projectiles.

☑️ Another notable feature is its compatibility with short-action rifles. This not only results in faster cycling of the bolt in bolt-action rifles but also often means a lighter and more compact firearm, beneficial for hunters on the move or marksmen who prioritize a nimble platform.

Our Top Pick
Nosler 308 Winchester Ammo 165 Grain
Introducing a bullet with a sleek polymer tip for flat trajectory and rapid expansion upon impact. Complemented by a strong jacketed base for weight retention and deep penetration, making it the ultimate choice for medium to large game.
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Choosing .308 Ammo 👌

🚩 Choosing the right .308 ammunition is crucial, whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or engaging in tactical scenarios. The .308 Winchester cartridge, which is also used in its military form as the 7.62x51mm NATO, is a versatile round known for its accuracy and power. When selecting the appropriate ammo, you’ll need to consider several factors.

🚩 Firstly, the purpose of your shooting plays a significant role. For hunting, you’ll want to look for expanding bullets, such as soft points or ballistic tips. These are designed to expand upon impact, ensuring a quick and humane kill. Brands like Federal, Hornady, and Nosler offer a range of hunting-specific .308 rounds that have been optimized for various game sizes. For instance, if you’re hunting deer, you might opt for a 150-grain bullet, while for larger game like elk, a 180-grain might be more suitable.

🚩 For target shooting, especially at longer distances, consistency and precision are key. Match-grade ammunition is designed specifically for this purpose. It undergoes stricter quality control and often uses higher-quality components to ensure each round is as identical as possible. Sierra MatchKing and Hornady Match are popular choices among long-range shooters for their proven accuracy.

🚩 Tactical or self-defense scenarios require reliable and effective ammunition. In these situations, you might lean towards rounds that offer a combination of penetration and expansion, ensuring that the bullet will incapacitate a threat effectively. Federal’s Gold Medal Berger or Hornady’s TAP (Tactical Application Police) are examples of rounds designed with tactical applications in mind.

🚩 Bullet weight is another consideration. In the .308 caliber, bullet weights typically range from 110 grains to 180 grains, with 150 and 168 grains being among the most popular. Lighter bullets tend to have flatter trajectories and are faster, while heavier bullets might offer better penetration and stability, especially in windy conditions.

🚩 Lastly, your specific firearm can also influence your ammo choice. Some rifles might have a preference for certain brands or bullet weights based on their barrel twist rate, chamber dimensions, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to test a few different types of ammunition to see which one your firearm prefers.

Best 308 Ammo Review

#1 Nosler 308 Winchester Ammo 168 Grain

Nosler 308 Winchester Ammo 168 Grain

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The trajectory of this bullet is impressively flat, boasting a muzzle velocity of 2,750 feet per second. Even at 200 yards, this ammunition delivers a forceful impact with 2,091 foot-pounds of energy. The bullet itself begins with a Nosler hollow point, featuring a small meplat that not only reduces drag but also enhances aerodynamics.

This is complemented by a custom jacket that encloses a lead-alloy core, which undergoes rigorous testing for stability and balance. The classic boat-tail design of the bullet ensures optimal performance from the moment it leaves the muzzle to the point it hits the target, making it ideal for long-range shooting.

Backing this bullet is a consistent powder charge housed in the renowned reloadable head-stamped Nosler 308 brass. Before any cartridge is deemed ready for the market, it undergoes a thorough inspection and polishing process. This ensures that each round not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the shooter.

Pros:
  • Impressive flat trajectory
  • High muzzle velocity (2,750 fps)
  • Strong impact at 200 yards (2,091 ft-lbs)
  • The nosler hollow point with reduced drag
  • Custom jacket for stable core
  • Optimal boat-tail design for long-range accuracy
  • Consistent powder charge
  • Rigorous quality inspection
Cons:
  • Limited bullet weight options
  • Potential over-penetration
  • Costlier compared to standard ammunition

#2 Nosler Match Grade 308 Winchester Ammo 175 Grain

Nosler Match Grade 308 Winchester Ammo 175 Grain

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The bullet’s round nose flat design is characterized by its rounded tip and flat base. This design ensures that the bullet maintains a stable flight trajectory, even in challenging conditions.

The 175-grain weight provides a perfect balance of velocity and energy, ensuring that each shot is both fast and powerful. With a muzzle velocity of 2,600 feet per second and an energy of 2,627 foot-pounds at the muzzle, this ammunition is capable of delivering impressive results at both close and long-range distances.

The bullet itself is constructed with a lead-alloy core that is surrounded by a custom jacket. This combination ensures that the bullet retains its shape upon impact, providing consistent and reliable expansion. The brass casing that houses the bullet and powder is of the highest quality, ensuring smooth chambering and ejection.

Pros:
  • Stable flight trajectory in challenging conditions
  • Balanced 175-grain weight for velocity and energy
  • Versatile for close and long-range distances
  • Lead-alloy core with a custom jacket for consistent expansion
  • Impressive muzzle velocity (2,600 fps)
  • High energy at the muzzle (2,627 ft-lbs)
  • Reliable brass casing for smooth chambering
  • Consistent bullet shape upon impact
Cons:
  • Potential for higher bullet drop at extended ranges
  • Limited availability of bullet styles within the design
  • Moderate recoil, more noticeable in lighter firearms

#3 Hornady Superformance 308 Winchester Ammo 150 Grain

Hornady Superformance 308 Winchester Ammo 150 Grain

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At the heart of it is the Super Shock Tip (SST) bullet. This bullet is meticulously crafted to deliver rapid, controlled expansion with deep penetration. The sharp, pointed polymer tip ensures a faster, flatter trajectory, making it ideal for long-range shots.

The bullet’s weight of 150 grains strikes an optimal balance, ensuring a harmonious blend of speed and energy upon impact. With a muzzle velocity of 2,820 feet per second and a muzzle energy of 2,641 foot-pounds, it promises a powerful punch with every shot.

The SST bullet also boasts an InterLock ring, a unique feature that mechanically locks the core and jacket together. This ensures that the bullet retains its mass and energy, delivering devastating terminal performance. The bullet’s boat-tail design further enhances its ballistic coefficient, ensuring that it maintains a stable flight path, even in adverse conditions.

The cartridges are loaded with high-quality propellants that are matched to each load for optimal pressure, velocity, and consistency. The brass casings are selected for their strength and reliability, ensuring smooth chambering and consistent ejection.

It is also designed with the shooter’s safety in mind. The Superformance (SPF) technology ensures that it delivers up to 200 feet per second more velocity than conventional ammunition, without any increase in felt recoil, muzzle blast, or temperature sensitivity.

Pros:
  • Meticulously crafted SST bullet for controlled expansion and penetration
  • Sharp polymer tip for faster, flatter trajectory
  • Optimal 150-grain weight for speed and energy
  • High muzzle velocity (2,820 fps)
  • Strong muzzle energy (2,641 ft-lbs)
  • InterLock ring for retained mass and energy
  • Boat-tail design for stable flight in adverse conditions
  • Superformance technology for increased velocity without added recoil
Cons:
  • Limited bullet weight options for different shooting scenarios
  • May be pricier compared to standard ammunition
  • The specific design may not perform optimally in all firearms

#4 Hornady American Whitetail 308 Winchester Ammo 165 Grain

Hornady American Whitetail 308 Winchester Ammo 165 Grain

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The InterLock bullet features a raised ring inside the jacket that is embedded into the bullet’s core. This unique design ensures that the jacket and core remain locked together during expansion, resulting in deep penetration and maximum energy transfer. The bullet’s weight of 165 grains ensures a perfect balance of speed and impact, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.

The bullet’s aerodynamic secant ogive profile, combined with its boat-tail base, ensures that it maintains a consistent and stable flight path. This design not only enhances the bullet’s ballistic coefficient but also reduces drag, ensuring that the bullet reaches its target with pinpoint accuracy. With a muzzle velocity of 2,700 feet per second and a muzzle energy of 2,719 foot-pounds, it is designed to deliver a powerful impact with every shot.

It is loaded with high-grade propellants that are specifically matched to each load, ensuring consistent pressure, velocity, and performance. The brass casings are meticulously selected for their strength and durability, ensuring that they chamber smoothly and eject consistently.

Furthermore, the American Whitetail (AW) line of ammunition is designed specifically for deer hunters. It promises to deliver the knockdown power required to bring down a whitetail deer efficiently. The combination of the InterLock bullet and the precision-loaded cartridge ensures that hunters have the confidence to take that perfect shot when the moment arises.

Pros:
  • InterLock bullet design for deep penetration and energy transfer
  • Balanced 165-grain weight for speed and impact
  • Consistent and stable flight path due to second ogive profile and boat-tail base
  • Enhanced ballistic coefficient and accuracy
  • High muzzle velocity (2,700 fps)
  • Strong muzzle energy (2,719 ft-lbs)
  • Customized propellants for consistent pressure and performance
  • Designed specifically for deer hunting scenarios
Cons:
  • Limited versatility for non-deer hunting applications
  • Potential for over-penetration in certain hunting environments
  • May have specific requirements for optimal performance
  • Could be less suitable for long-range shooting compared to specialized long-range ammunition

#5 Hornady BLACK 308 Winchester Ammo 168 Grain

Hornady BLACK 308 Winchester Ammo 168 Grain

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This bullet is meticulously engineered to provide a balanced flight trajectory, ensuring that each shot reaches its intended target with precision. With a weight of 168 grains, the bullet strikes a balance between speed and impact, making it a versatile choice for various shooting applications.

The bullet’s Spitzer Boat Tail (SBT) design enhances its aerodynamic properties, reducing drag and ensuring a stable flight. This design, combined with a ballistic coefficient of 0.475, ensures that the bullet maintains its velocity over longer distances, resulting in a flatter trajectory and improved accuracy.

The brass casings are of high quality, ensuring smooth chambering and consistent ejection. The propellant is matched to the load, guaranteeing consistent muzzle velocities. With a muzzle velocity of 2,700 feet per second and a muzzle energy of 2,719 foot-pounds, this ammunition is designed to deliver a powerful impact.

It is optimized for performance in a variety of platforms, including direct impingement, gas piston, suppressed, unsuppressed, inertia, bolt, pump, supersonic, subsonic, rifle, mid-length, carbine, and even pistols. This adaptability ensures that shooters can trust it, regardless of their firearm choice.

Pros:
  • Meticulously engineered for balanced flight trajectory
  • Versatile 168-grain weight for speed and impact
  • Spitzer Boat Tail (SBT) design for reduced drag and stability
  • High ballistic coefficient (0.475) for longer distances and accuracy
  • Consistent brass casings for smooth chambering and ejection
  • Matched propellant for consistent muzzle velocities
  • High muzzle velocity (2,700 fps)
  • Adaptability across various firearm platforms
Cons:
  • Limited specialization for extreme shooting scenarios
  • Potential for varying performance based on barrel lengths
  • May not offer the most exceptional performance in specialized categories
  • Could be less effective for certain long-range precision shooting competitions

#6 Federal Premium Power-Shok 308 Winchester Ammo 150 grain

Federal Premium Power-Shok 308 Winchester Ammo 150 grain

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The Power-Shok series is designed with the hunter in mind, offering a combination of accuracy, reliability, and devastating terminal performance. At its core is the 150-grain Jacketed Soft Point bullet, a design that has proven its worth in the field time and time again. The JSP bullet expands upon impact, creating a large wound channel and ensuring quick, humane kills in the game. This controlled expansion is crucial for ethical hunting, ensuring that the energy is transferred effectively to the target and reducing the chances of wounding.

The bullet’s weight of 150 grains offers a balanced combination of velocity and impact energy. With a muzzle velocity of 2,820 feet per second and a muzzle energy of 2,648 foot-pounds, this ammunition is capable of taking down medium to large-sized game with ease. Whether you’re hunting deer, antelope, or other similar-sized animals, the Power-Shok .308 Winchester 150 Grain JSP will not disappoint.

The brass casings are of premium quality, ensuring consistent chambering and ejection. The primers are reliable, providing consistent ignition and reducing the chances of misfires. The propellant is carefully matched to the bullet, ensuring consistent velocities and a stable flight trajectory.

Pros:
  • Hunter-centric design for accuracy and terminal performance
  • Proven 150-grain Jacketed Soft Point (JSP) bullet
  • Controlled expansion for quick, humane kills
  • Balanced 150-grain weight for velocity and impact
  • High muzzle velocity (2,820 fps)
  • Strong muzzle energy (2,648 ft-lbs)
  • Reliable brass casings for smooth chambering and ejection
  • Consistent ignition from reliable primers
Cons:
  • Limited suitability for the smaller games due to bullet weight
  • Potential for over-expansion in close-range shots
  • May not perform optimally in scenarios requiring extreme precision
  • Could exhibit varying performance based on barrel length and rifle setup

#7 Nosler 308 Winchester Ammo 165 Grain

Nosler 308 Winchester Ammo 165 Grain

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This bullet boasts a streamlined polymer tip, guaranteeing a flat trajectory and minimized wind drift. Upon impact, the tip triggers rapid expansion, resulting in a devastating terminal effect. Complementing the tip is a robustly jacketed base, ensuring both weight retention and deep penetration, even against formidable barriers. This unique fusion of swift expansion and profound penetration positions the Ballistic Tip bullet as the optimal choice for pursuing medium to large games.

Weighing in at 165 grains, this bullet strikes a harmonious balance between velocity and impact force. Unleashing a muzzle velocity of 2,800 feet per second, it propels towards the target swiftly and with minimal drop. The impact imparts substantial energy, rendering it efficacious against a diverse array of game species.

The brass casings are meticulously crafted to exacting standards, ensuring uniform chambering and ejection. The primers, chosen for their unwavering reliability, guarantee consistent ignition, significantly reducing the likelihood of misfires. The propellant is meticulously paired with the bullet, resulting in unwavering velocities and a steady flight trajectory.

Pros:
  • Streamlined polymer tip for flat trajectory and minimized wind drift
  • Rapid expansion upon impact for devastating terminal effect
  • Robustly jacketed base for weight retention and deep penetration
  • Swift expansion and deep penetration for medium to large games
  • Balanced 165-grain weight for velocity and impact
  • High muzzle velocity (2,800 fps)
  • Consistent brass casings for uniform chambering and ejection
  • Reliable primers for consistent ignition
Cons:
  • Potential for over-penetration in certain hunting scenarios
  • Limited effectiveness for extremely small games due to bullet weight
  • May not provide the best precision for long-range target shooting
  • Could be less ideal for specialized competitions requiring specific bullet designs

#8 Winchester SUPER-X RIFLE 308 Winchester Ammo 180 grain

Winchester SUPER-X RIFLE 308 Winchester Ammo 180 grain

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The bullet type is a Soft Point (SP), weighing 180 grains. Soft Point bullets are known for their rapid expansion upon impact, making them ideal for hunting applications.

The brass casing ensures reliable feeding and extraction in a variety of firearms. With a muzzle velocity of 2620 ft/s and a muzzle energy of 2743 ft-lbs, this ammunition packs a punch, ensuring that the target is hit with maximum force.

One of the standout features of it is the PowerPoint design. This assures quick and massive knock-down power, making it especially effective for hunting games. The strategic notching on the bullet ensures consistent and reliable expansion upon impact.

The contoured jacket of the bullet is designed for maximum expansion performance, ensuring that the bullet opens up effectively upon hitting the target. The alloyed lead core of the bullet increases its retained weight, allowing for deeper penetration into the target.

Pros:
  • Soft Point (SP) bullet for rapid expansion in hunting scenarios
  • Balanced 180-grain weight for effective impact
  • Reliable brass casing for feeding and extraction
  • High muzzle velocity (2620 ft/s)
  • Strong muzzle energy (2743 ft-lbs)
  • PowerPoint design for quick and powerful knock-down power
  • Notched bullet for consistent and reliable expansion
  • Contoured jacket for maximum expansion performance
  • Alloyed lead core for increased retained weight and penetration
Cons:
  • Potential for over-expansion and fragmentation at close ranges
  • Limited suitability for the smaller games due to bullet weight
  • May exhibit varying performance in different firearms
  • Could be less suitable for long-range precision shooting compared to specialized ammunition

#9 Nosler 308 Winchester Ammo 168 Grain

Nosler 308 Winchester Ammo 168 Grain

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Nosler’s E-Tip bullet, weighing in at 168 grains, is a lead-free projectile designed to deliver superior penetration and expansion. It is constructed from a solid copper alloy, ensuring that it retains its weight and shape upon impact. This results in consistent and devastating terminal performance, making it a top choice for hunting applications.

One of the standout features is its Energy Expansion Cavity™. This patented design allows for immediate and uniform expansion upon impact, ensuring maximum energy transfer to the target. The bullet’s green polymer tip aids in aerodynamic flight, ensuring that the bullet maintains a flat trajectory over long distances. This, combined with the boat tail design, ensures that the bullet remains stable in flight, resulting in exceptional accuracy.

The brass casing of it ensures reliable feeding and extraction in a variety of firearms. It also provides consistent ignition, ensuring that each shot is as accurate as the last. The use of a lead-free bullet not only makes it environmentally friendly but also ensures that there is minimal fouling in the barrel, leading to extended barrel life and consistent performance.

Pros:
  • Lead-free E-Tip bullet for superior penetration and expansion
  • Solid copper alloy construction retains weight and shape
  • Energy Expansion Cavity™ for immediate and uniform expansion
  • Green polymer tip for aerodynamic flight and flat trajectory
  • Boat tail design for stability and accuracy
  • Reliable brass casing for feeding, extraction, and ignition
  • Environmentally friendly with minimal barrel fouling
  • Extended barrel life due to lead-free design
Cons:
  • Potential for reduced performance at extremely long ranges
  • Limited bullet weight options for different game sizes
  • Higher cost compared to traditional lead-core bullets
  • May not be as widely available as conventional ammunition

#10 Nosler Trophy Grade 308 Winchester Ammo 150 Grain

Nosler Trophy Grade 308 Winchester Ammo 150 Grain

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This cartridge, renowned for its versatility and effectiveness, finds its perfect match in 150-grain AccuBond (AB) bullet. This bullet is engineered to provide deep penetration and controlled expansion, ensuring that it delivers a lethal impact on game animals. The AccuBond bullet, with its tapered jacket and special lead-alloy core, ensures that the bullet retains most of its weight upon impact, resulting in consistent and devastating terminal performance.

One of the standout features of it is its white polymer tip. This tip not only aids in aerodynamic flight but also initiates expansion upon impact. The bullet’s boat tail design further enhances its ballistic coefficient, ensuring that it maintains a stable flight path even over long distances. This stability, combined with the bullet’s inherent accuracy, makes it a favorite among long-range shooters.

The ammunition’s brass casing ensures that it feeds and extracts reliably in a wide range of firearms. It also provides consistent ignition, ensuring that each shot is as accurate as the last.

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Pros:
  • Versatile and effective cartridge for various hunting applications
  • 150-grain AccuBond (AB) bullet for deep penetration and controlled expansion
  • Tapered jacket and lead-alloy core for weight retention and terminal performance
  • White polymer tip for aerodynamic flight and impact-initiated expansion
  • Boat tail design for enhanced ballistic coefficient and stability
  • Accurate and consistent performance at long ranges
  • Reliable brass casing for feeding, extraction, and ignition
  • Renowned effectiveness among both hunters and long-range shooters
Cons:
  • Potential for higher recoil due to cartridge power
  • Limited availability of bullet options within the cartridge
  • May be pricier compared to standard ammunition
  • Could exhibit varying performance based on barrel lengths and rifling configurations

#11 Winchester BALLISTIC SILVERTIP 308 Winchester Ammo 168 grain

Winchester BALLISTIC SILVERTIP 308 Winchester Ammo 168 grain

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Its sleek design, complemented by the silver polymer tip, ensures rapid expansion upon impact. This rapid expansion, combined with the bullet’s ability to retain most of its weight, results in devastating terminal performance. The bullet’s boat tail design further enhances its aerodynamic properties, ensuring that it maintains a stable flight path, even over long distances.

One of the standout features of it is its nickel-plated brass casing. This casing not only gives the ammunition a distinct appearance but also ensures smooth feeding and extraction. The nickel plating also provides corrosion resistance, ensuring that it remains in pristine condition even in adverse conditions.

Pros:
  • Sleek design with a silver polymer tip for rapid expansion
  • Devastating terminal performance and weight retention
  • Boat tail design for stable flight, especially at long distances
  • Nickel-plated brass casing for smooth feeding and extraction
  • Corrosion resistance due to nickel plating
  • Accurate and effective for a variety of shooting scenarios
  • Suitable for hunting and long-range shooting
Cons:
  • Limited bullet weight options within the design
  • Nickel plating could potentially increase cost compared to standard brass casings
  • May not be as widely available as conventional ammunition

#12 Federal Premium SIERRA MATCHKING BTHP 308 Winchester Ammo 168 grain

Federal Premium SIERRA MATCHKING BTHP 308 Winchester Ammo 168 grain

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The core is the Sierra MatchKing bullet, a name that resonates with precision shooters worldwide. This bullet, known for its unmatched accuracy, has been the choice of world champions and record holders. Its hollow point boat tail design ensures a stable flight, even over extended distances, making it a favorite among long-range shooters.

One of the standout features of it is its consistency. Each cartridge is loaded to exacting standards, ensuring uniformity in performance. This consistency is crucial for precision shooting, where even the slightest variation can make a difference. The brass casing, primers, and propellant are all selected to provide optimal performance, ensuring that each shot is as accurate as the last.

Pros:
  • Sierra MatchKing bullet for unmatched accuracy
  • Hollow point boat tail design for stable flight at long distances
  • Choice of world champions and record holders
  • Exacting standards ensure uniformity in performance
  • Optimal performance from the selected brass casing, primers, and propellant
  • Suitable for both competitive shooting and long-range hunting
  • The respected name among precision shooters worldwide
Cons:
  • Potential for higher cost due to precision manufacturing and components
  • May not perform optimally at close ranges compared to specialized designs
  • Could require specific rifle setups to fully utilize its accuracy potential

#13 Federal Premium TERMINAL ASCENT 308 Winchester Ammo 175 grain

Federal Premium TERMINAL ASCENT 308 Winchester Ammo 175 grain

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It features a bonded lead core and a thick, robust jacket, ensuring deep penetration and consistent expansion. This design ensures that the bullet retains its weight and shape, even when striking bone or tough hide, resulting in a devastating wound channel and quick, humane kills.

One of the standout features of it is its long-range capabilities. It is aerodynamically designed, with a high ballistic coefficient, ensuring a flat trajectory and reduced wind drift. This means that hunters can confidently take shots at extended ranges, knowing that the bullet will hit its mark with precision. The ammunition also features a specially formulated propellant, which provides consistent velocities and reduces barrel fouling.

Pros:
  • Bonded lead core and robust jacket for deep penetration and expansion
  • Weight and shape retention for effective bone and hide penetration
  • Devastating wound channels and quick, humane kills
  • Long-range capabilities with a high ballistic coefficient
  • Flat trajectory and reduced wind drift for extended-range accuracy
  • Specially formulated propellant for consistent velocities
  • Reduced barrel fouling for improved maintenance
  • Suitable for various hunting scenarios and game sizes
Cons:
  • Potential for over-penetration in certain hunting environments
  • Limited bullet weight options within the design
  • May be pricier compared to standard hunting ammunition
  • Could exhibit varying performance based on barrel lengths and rifling configurations

#14 Winchester DEER SEASON XP 308 Winchester Ammo 150 grain

Winchester DEER SEASON XP 308 Winchester Ammo 150 grain

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The Extreme Point bullet, with its oversized polymer tip, ensures rapid expansion upon impact. This design results in a larger impact diameter, translating to massive wound channels and quicker, more humane kills. When a deer is in your sight, and you have only one shot to make it count.

The propellants are carefully selected to provide consistent velocities, ensuring that each shot is as accurate as the last. The brass casings are precision-engineered for reliability, ensuring smooth chambering and ejection, shot after shot.

One of the standout features of it is its versatility. While it’s designed with deer hunting in mind, its performance characteristics make it suitable for hunting a wide range of medium to large game.

Pros:
  • Oversized polymer tip for rapid and massive expansion
  • Large impact diameter for more humane kills
  • Carefully selected propellants for consistent velocities
  • Precision-engineered brass casings for reliability
  • Versatile performance suitable for medium to large game
  • Designed with deer hunting in mind
  • Enhanced wound channels for effective stopping power
Cons:
  • Potential for over-expansion at very close ranges
  • Limited bullet weight options within the design
  • May exhibit varying performance based on barrel lengths and rifle setups
  • Could require adjustments for extreme long-range precision shooting

Things to Consider Before Buying .308 Ammo for Hunting 🛒

➡️ When contemplating the purchase of .308 ammunition for hunting, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure you make the best choice for your specific needs. This cartridge is renowned for its versatility, making it a popular choice among hunters. However, not all of them are created equal, and understanding the nuances can significantly impact your hunting success.

➡️ One of the primary considerations is the type of game you’re pursuing. Different animals require different bullet designs to ensure a quick and humane kill. For instance, if you’re hunting deer, you might want a bullet that offers rapid expansion upon impact, like a soft point or ballistic tip. These designs ensure that the bullet causes significant internal damage, leading to a swift kill. On the other hand, if you’re hunting larger or tougher games like elk or bear, you might lean towards a bullet with controlled expansion and deeper penetration, such as a bonded bullet or a partition design.

➡️ Bullet weight is another crucial factor. In the realm of it, bullet weights can vary widely, typically ranging from 110 grains to 180 grains. Lighter bullets, such as those around 110 to 150 grains, might be suitable for smaller games due to their faster velocities and flatter trajectories. Heavier bullets, in the 165 to 180-grain range, offer better penetration and are often preferred for larger games. The weight you choose should align with the size and toughness of the animal you’re targeting.

➡️ The environment and terrain where you’ll be hunting can also influence your ammo choice. If you expect to take longer shots in open terrain, you might prioritize it with a flatter trajectory and less wind drift. Conversely, in dense forests where shots are likely to be closer, rapid expansion might be more critical than long-range ballistics.

➡️ Another consideration is the specific rifle you’ll be using. Rifles can be finicky, and sometimes they show a preference for certain brands or bullet weights. It’s beneficial to test a variety of ammunition to determine which one provides the best accuracy and consistency for your firearm.

➡️ Lastly, ethical considerations should always be at the forefront of a hunter’s mind. It’s essential to choose one that will provide a humane kill. This means selecting a bullet designed for the game you’re hunting and ensuring you’re comfortable with the effective range and your shooting skills.

➡️ Selecting the right choice for hunting involves a balance of factors, from the type of game and hunting environment to the specific characteristics of your rifle. By giving thought to each of these aspects, you can ensure a successful and ethical hunting experience.

FAQ 📚

What is the best match grain for a 308?

✅ When it comes to match shooting or precision rifle competitions, the choice of bullet grain is often influenced by the specific requirements of the shooter, the rifle, and the intended shooting distance.

✅ Historically, the 168-grain Sierra MatchKing hollow point boat tail bullet has been a staple in the precision shooting community. Its design offers a balance of accuracy and consistency, making it a favorite for many shooters at distances up to 600 yards. The aerodynamic shape of the bullet, combined with Sierra’s reputation for consistent manufacturing, has made it a go-to choice for many.

✅ However, as the demands of precision shooting evolved and as engagements began stretching out to longer distances, many shooters started to look for bullets with better long-range ballistics. This led to the increasing popularity of the 175-grain Sierra MatchKing. The slightly heavier bullet offers a better ballistic coefficient, which means it retains its velocity over longer distances and is less affected by wind. For engagements beyond 600 yards, or in conditions with variable winds, the 175-grain bullet has become the preferred choice for many precision shooters using the .308 Winchester.

✅ It’s essential to understand that while these two bullet weights are popular, they aren’t the only options. The best match grain will also depend on the specific rifle being used. Rifles have different barrel lengths, twist rates, and chamber specifications, all of which can influence bullet stabilization and accuracy. Some rifles might shoot lighter or heavier bullets more accurately than the 168-grain or 175-grain options.

✅ In the realm of precision shooting, it’s always advisable for shooters to experiment with various bullet weights and brands to find the optimal match for their specific rifle and shooting conditions. While the 168-grain and 175-grain Sierra MatchKings are well-regarded in the community, the best match grain for any given shooter will be the one that delivers the most consistent and accurate results from their rifle at their intended shooting distances.

What grain 308 do snipers use?

🔶 The choice of grain weight in .308 ammunition for snipers often hinges on the specific mission, the rifle being used, and the expected engagement distances. Historically, many snipers and precision shooters have gravitated towards the 168-grain .308 MatchKing bullet, particularly the one produced by Sierra. This bullet has earned a reputation for its consistent performance and accuracy at distances up to 600 yards.

🔶 However, as sniping techniques and equipment have evolved, and as engagements sometimes occur at longer distances, many have shifted towards the 175-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet for the .308 Winchester. The 175-grain bullet offers a slightly better ballistic coefficient than the 168-grain, which means it retains its velocity better over longer distances and is less susceptible to wind drift. This makes it a preferred choice for engagements that might stretch beyond 600 yards.

🔶 It’s worth noting that while these are popular choices, they are by no means the only options. The specific rifle, its barrel twist rate, and other factors can influence which bullet weight and design a sniper might choose. Additionally, advancements in bullet design and manufacturing continue to provide snipers with a broader array of high-quality options to suit their needs.

🔶 In military and law enforcement contexts, the choice of ammunition is also influenced by standardization and procurement processes. Certain units or agencies might standardize on a particular bullet weight or brand based on testing, bulk purchasing agreements, or other logistical considerations.

🔶 While the 168-grain and 175-grain MatchKing bullets have been popular choices among snipers using the .308 Winchester, the best bullet weight is determined by the specific requirements of the mission, the capabilities of the rifle, and the preferences of the shooter.

What is the effective range of a 308 on a deer?

✔️ The .308 Winchester cartridge is a versatile and powerful round, making it a popular choice among deer hunters. When discussing the effective range of the .308 for deer hunting, it’s essential to consider both the ballistic capabilities of the cartridge and the ethical considerations of ensuring a humane kill.

✔️ Ballistically, it is capable of delivering lethal energy to a deer well beyond 500 yards under ideal conditions. With premium hunting bullets, the cartridge retains enough energy and velocity to effectively take down a deer at these extended ranges. Modern ammunition advancements, combined with high-quality optics, have further extended the potential reach of this cartridge.

✔️ However, the effective range isn’t solely about ballistics. Ethical hunting practices emphasize the importance of ensuring a quick and humane kill. This means that the hunter must be confident in their ability to place a shot accurately at whatever distance they are shooting. Factors such as the hunter’s skill level, the quality of the rifle and optics, and environmental conditions like wind can significantly impact the effective range for an individual.

✔️ For many hunters, even those skilled in marksmanship, the practical effective range might be closer to 200-300 yards due to the variables mentioned. At these distances, it provides a flat enough trajectory and sufficient energy, while also giving the hunter a margin of error in shot placement.

✔️ It’s also worth noting that hunting scenarios can be unpredictable. The movement of the deer, the presence of obstacles, and the adrenaline of the moment can all influence the outcome of a shot. As such, hunters are often advised to practice regularly and understand their personal limits, as well as the limits of their equipment.

What grain .308 bullet for moose?

👉 When hunting larger game like moose with a .308 Winchester, the choice of bullet grain and design becomes especially critical. Moose are robust and resilient animals, and ensuring a quick and humane kill requires a bullet that can deliver deep penetration and consistent expansion, even when striking dense bone and muscle.

👉 For the .308 Winchester, heavier bullets are generally preferred for moose hunting. Bullets in the 180-grain to 200-grain range are commonly recommended. These heavier bullets have the mass and sectional density to penetrate deeply, which is essential for reaching the vital organs of a large animal like a moose.

👉 Bullet weight is just one part of the equation. The construction of the bullet is equally, if not more, important. For moose hunting, you’d want a bullet that retains its weight upon impact and expands reliably without fragmenting. Bonded bullets, partitioned bullets, or monolithic designs like the Barnes TTSX are often favored for their ability to maintain their integrity while delivering devastating terminal performance.

👉 Brands such as Nosler, with their Partition or AccuBond lines, Federal with their Trophy Bonded Tip, and Barnes with their all-copper TTSX bullets, are among the choices that have garnered respect from hunters who pursue large game. These bullets are designed to provide a balance of expansion and weight retention, ensuring that the bullet creates a wide wound channel while still penetrating deeply.

👉 It’s also essential for hunters to remember that shot placement remains paramount. Even the best bullet can’t compensate for a poorly placed shot. When hunting moose, understanding the animal’s anatomy and waiting for a clear shot to the vitals is crucial. Regular practice and familiarity with one’s rifle and ammunition will also play a significant role in ensuring success.

👉 When hunting moose with it, opting for a heavier bullet in the 180-grain to 200-grain range with a robust construction designed for deep penetration and reliable expansion is advisable. Coupled with proper shot placement and a good understanding of the animal’s anatomy, this will increase the chances of a successful and ethical hunt.

How far will a 308 bullet travel?

☑️ The distance a .308 Winchester bullet can travel is influenced by several factors, including the bullet’s design, weight, muzzle velocity, and the environmental conditions at the time of firing. In a vacuum, a bullet could theoretically continue traveling indefinitely, but in the real world, factors like air resistance, gravity, and even the Earth’s rotation play a role in limiting its range.

☑️ Under standard conditions, when fired at an optimal angle (usually considered to be around 30 to 45 degrees to the horizontal), it can travel several miles. However, it’s essential to differentiate between the bullet’s maximum range and its effective range. The effective range is the distance over which the bullet maintains enough energy and velocity to achieve its intended purpose, whether that’s hunting, target shooting, or self-defense. For it, the effective range is often considered to be within 800-1,000 yards for precision shooting, though skilled marksmen can push it further under the right conditions.

☑️ Beyond its effective range, the bullet will continue to lose velocity rapidly due to air resistance. As it slows, the bullet will begin to tumble and fall more vertically. By the time it reaches its maximum range, it will be traveling at a fraction of its initial speed and will have lost its aerodynamic stability.

☑️ It’s also worth noting that while it can travel several miles under the right conditions, the likelihood of it causing significant harm at such distances is minimal. However, safety should always be a primary concern. Shooters must be aware of their backstop and what lies beyond it. Even if the bullet is unlikely to cause harm at extreme distances, it’s still essential to ensure that shots don’t pose a risk to people, animals, or property.

☑️ While it has the potential to travel several miles, its effective range, where it remains accurate and lethal, is much shorter. Always prioritize safety and be aware of the bullet’s trajectory and potential maximum range when shooting.

Conclusion 👌

The .308 Winchester ammunition has solidified its position as a versatile and reliable cartridge for various applications, from hunting to target shooting. Its history, closely tied to the military 7.62x51mm NATO round, showcases its adaptability and wide-ranging use. With benefits such as versatility, effective range, manageable recoil, global popularity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, it’s no surprise that it remains a top choice for many shooters.

The article further delves into the features of this ammo, offering insights into its design, ballistics, and compatibility. Additionally, the article provides a comprehensive guide to choosing the right .308 ammo based on various factors, ensuring that readers make informed decisions. With detailed reviews of top ammo brands and types, this article serves as a definitive guide for those looking to understand or purchase the best ammunition in 2023.

 

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FreezTwo
FreezTwo
7 months ago

I appreciate the detailed breakdown of each ammo type. I’ve had great success with the Hornady BLACK 308 Winchester Ammo in my semi-automatic. How does it perform in bolt-action rifles?

    Dima
    7 months ago
    Reply to  FreezTwo

    👌 Hornady BLACK 308 Winchester Ammo is designed to perform well on a variety of platforms, including bolt-action rifles. It is loaded with the Hornady A-MAX bullet, which is a high-performance, match-grade bullet that is known for its accuracy and long-range performance. This bullet is also very resistant to wind deflection, making it a good choice for long-range shooting.

    💥 In a bolt-action rifle, it should perform just as well as it does in a semi-automatic rifle. The only difference is that you will need to manually cycle the bolt after each shot, which can be a bit slower than shooting a semi-automatic rifle. However, the accuracy and long-range performance of it should be unaffected by the type of rifle you use it in.

    ➡️ Here are some of the benefits of using it in a bolt-action rifle:

    • 🔶 Accuracy: It is known for its accuracy, so you can be confident that your shots will be on target.
    • 🔶 Long-range performance: It is also very resistant to wind deflection, making it a good choice for long-range shooting.
    • 🔶 Terminal performance: Designed to fragment upon impact, creating a large wound cavity that will quickly incapacitate your target.
    • 🔶 Reliability: This ammunition is loaded to exacting standards, so you can be confident that it will function reliably in your bolt-action rifle.

    👀 If you are looking for high-performance, match-grade ammunition that will perform well in your bolt-action rifle, then it is a good option.

      AlphaFreez
      AlphaFreez
      7 months ago

      The Federal Premium Power-Shok 308 Winchester Ammo sounds promising, especially for its rapid expansion. Has anyone had any experience with it in different weather conditions?

        Dima
        7 months ago
        Reply to  AlphaFreez

        ✅ Yes, it is a popular choice for hunters and shooters who need a reliable and accurate round that will perform well in a variety of weather conditions. It is loaded with a 150-grain jacketed soft point (JPS) bullet that is designed to expand rapidly upon impact, creating a large wound cavity that will quickly incapacitate the target.

        🔥 It has been tested in a variety of weather conditions, including hot, cold, wet, and dry. It has been shown to retain its accuracy and terminal performance in all of these conditions. In fact, some hunters have reported that the Power-Shok ammo performs even better in cold weather, as the JPS bullet is more likely to expand reliably in colder temperatures.

        👍 If you are looking for reliable and accurate ammo that will perform well in a variety of weather conditions, then it is a good option.

          LegendStrong
          LegendStrong
          7 months ago

          Why is the .308 Winchester so popular among hunters compared to other cartridges?

            Dima
            7 months ago
            Reply to  LegendStrong

            ➡️ The .308 Winchester is a popular cartridge among hunters for a number of reasons. It is:

            1. 🔶 Powerful enough to take down a wide variety of game animals, from deer to elk to moose.
            2. 🔶 Accurate enough for long-range shooting.
            3. 🔶 Relatively lightweight and easy to carry, making it a good choice for backpacking or hiking hunts.
            4. 🔶 Affordable and readily available.
            5. 🔶 A versatile round that can be used for hunting, target shooting, and even self-defense.

            ➡️ Here is a more detailed look at some of the reasons why it is so popular:

            1. 🔷 Power: It is a powerful cartridge that can take down a wide variety of game animals. It has enough power to cleanly kill deer-sized games at up to 300 yards, and it can also be used to take down larger game animals, such as elk and moose, at closer ranges.
            2. 🔷 Accuracy: It is a very accurate cartridge. It is capable of making precision shots at long ranges, making it a good choice for hunting game animals that are difficult to approach, such as elk and moose.
            3. 🔷 Weight: It is a relatively lightweight cartridge. This makes it a good choice for backpacking or hiking hunts, where weight is a major consideration.
            4. 🔷 Affordability: It is an affordable cartridge. This makes it a good choice for budget-minded hunters.
            5. 🔷 Availability: It is a readily available cartridge. This means that you should be able to find it at most sporting goods stores.
            6. 🔷 Versatility: It is a versatile cartridge that can be used for a variety of hunting, target shooting, and even self-defense applications. This makes it a good choice for hunters who want a single cartridge that can do it all.

            ⭐ The .308 Winchester is a popular cartridge among hunters because it is powerful, accurate, lightweight, affordable, and readily available. It is a versatile round that can be used for a variety of hunting and shooting applications.

              NarutoGiveup
              NarutoGiveup
              7 months ago

              The article mentions the .308 having a manageable recoil. How does this compare to other popular hunting cartridges?

                Dima
                7 months ago
                Reply to  NarutoGiveup

                💪 The .308 Winchester is a popular hunting cartridge known for its versatility and effectiveness on medium to large games. One of the reasons for its popularity is its manageable recoil, which makes it suitable for a wide range of shooters. 

                ➡️ Let’s compare the recoil of it to other popular hunting cartridges:

                • 🚩 .243 Winchester: The .243 Winchester is known for its mild recoil, making it a favorite among younger shooters and those sensitive to recoil. It’s effective for a medium-sized game like deer. Compared to the .308, the .243 has significantly less recoil.
                • 🚩 .270 Winchester: The .270 is another popular hunting cartridge, especially for deer and elk. Its recoil is generally considered to be between that of the .243 and the .308, making it manageable for most shooters.
                • 🚩 .30-06 Springfield: The .30-06 is a versatile cartridge that can be used for a variety of games, from deer to moose. Its recoil is similar to, or slightly more than, the .308 depending on the load.
                • 🚩 7mm Remington Magnum: This is a magnum cartridge, and as such, it generally has more recoil than the .308. It’s effective for larger games and longer distances, but its increased recoil might not be suitable for all shooters.
                • 🚩 .300 Winchester Magnum: Another magnum cartridge, the .300 Win Mag is known for its long-range capabilities and effectiveness on large game. However, it also comes with significantly more recoil than the .308.
                • 🚩 .223 Remington/5.56 NATO: Commonly used in AR-15-style rifles, this cartridge has much less recoil than the .308. It’s effective for varmints and smaller game, but generally not recommended for larger game like deer.
                • 🚩 6.5 Creedmoor: This cartridge has gained popularity in recent years due to its long-range capabilities and mild recoil. Its recoil is similar to or slightly less than the .308, making it a favorite among many hunters and competitive shooters.

                🏁 In summary, it offers a good balance of power and manageable recoil, making it suitable for a wide range of hunting applications. However, the best cartridge for any individual will depend on their specific needs, the game they’re hunting, and their personal tolerance to recoil.

                  WolfStone
                  WolfStone
                  7 months ago

                  I recently tried the Hornady Superformance 308 Winchester Ammo, and I must say the performance was impressive. The accuracy and impact were spot on!

                    SunriseCar
                    SunriseCar
                    7 months ago

                    For anyone new to shooting, I’d highly recommend starting with the .308. It’s a great cartridge to learn with.

                      TyraRonin
                      TyraRonin
                      7 months ago

                      I’ve always been a fan of Nosler ammunition. Their attention to detail and quality is unmatched in my experience.

                        NightRush
                        NightRush
                        7 months ago

                        The article does a great job highlighting the versatility of the .308. From hunting to target shooting, it’s a reliable choice.