7.62 NATO Ammo Overview
7.62 NATO ammunition originated in the 1950s as the standard cartridge for NATO forces. It offers balanced power and range, designed for military effectiveness and reliability. Today, 7.62 NATO remains a popular choice for designated marksman rifles and battle rifles worldwide.
Why 7.62 NATO Ammo Is a Top Choice
- Reliable performance in various firearms
- Effective power and penetration at medium ranges
- Wide aftermarket availability and compatibility
- Ideal for both military and civilian use
- Consistent ballistics for precision shooting
Key Variants
7.62x51 NATO M80
Standard ball cartridge used by militaries globally for general-purpose engagements.
7.62x51 NATO M118 LR
Long-range tracer cartridge favored by designated marksmen for precision at distance.
7.62x51 NATO M62
Tracer round for target acquisition and fire correction during sustained fire.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | 7.62 NATO | .308 Winchester | .30-06 Springfield |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $1.00 - $1.50 per round | $1.00 - $1.60 per round | $1.30 - $2.00 per round |
| Capacity/Size | Medium, 51mm case length | Similar in length to 7.62 NATO | Longer case, 63mm length |
| Weight | Approximately 147 grains typical | Similar grain weight | Heavier bullet options available |
| Optics-Ready | Yes, widely supported | Yes | Yes |
| Trigger Type | N/A (ammo-specific) | N/A | N/A |
| Notable Pro | Military-standard, consistent ballistics | Widely available commercial option | Greater power for longer-range hunting |
| Notable Con | Less common than .308 commercial ammo | May vary in pressure from military spec | More recoil, heavier rifles needed |
Best Use Cases
- Self-defense in designated marksman roles
- Military and law enforcement duty use
- Long-range precision shooting
- Medium-game hunting with appropriate rifles
- Range training and target practice
FAQs
Can I use 7.62 NATO ammo in a .308 Winchester rifle?
Most .308 Winchester rifles can safely fire 7.62 NATO ammo, but verify chamber specifications first to ensure compatibility and safety.
What is the difference between 7.62 NATO and .308 Winchester?
7.62 NATO is a military cartridge with slight dimensional and pressure differences from the commercial .308 Winchester, affecting safe interchangeability.
How does 7.62 NATO perform for hunting applications?
7.62 NATO offers effective terminal performance on medium-game animals at typical engagement ranges when paired with suitable bullets.
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