308 AR-10 Ammo: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking to expand your ammunition collection or curious about the 308 AR-10 cartridge? Look no further! This article delves into the details of the 308 AR-10 ammo, covering its history, specifications, performance, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, understanding the nuances of this ammunition can enhance your shooting experience significantly.

History of the 308 AR-10 Ammo

The 308 AR-10 ammo has its roots in the late 1950s when the British military was searching for a new service rifle. The result was the Enfield EM-2 rifle, which used the .280 British cartridge. However, the cartridge was not a commercial success, and the British military eventually adopted the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge for their service rifle, the L85A1.

Despite the British military’s decision, the .280 British cartridge continued to be used in civilian markets, and it was eventually adopted by the American firearm manufacturer, Ruger. Ruger developed the Ruger Mini-14 rifle, which used the .280 British cartridge. Later, the cartridge was renamed to 308 AR-10 to differentiate it from the .308 Winchester cartridge.

Technical Specifications

Here are the technical specifications of the 308 AR-10 ammo:

The 308 AR-10 ammo is a bottlenecked cartridge, which means it has a narrow neck that allows for better bullet fit and accuracy. The case capacity of 2.85 inches is slightly larger than the .308 Winchester cartridge, which contributes to the increased bullet weight and velocity of the 308 AR-10 ammo.

Performance and Ballistics

The 308 AR-10 ammo offers excellent performance and ballistics. The increased bullet weight and velocity of the 308 AR-10 ammo compared to the .308 Winchester cartridge result in improved long-range accuracy and terminal ballistics.

Here are some key performance and ballistics characteristics of the 308 AR-10 ammo:

• Bullet Weight: The 308 AR-10 ammo typically uses bullet weights ranging from 150 to 175 grains. The heavier bullet weight contributes to better long-range performance and increased energy transfer upon impact.
• Velocity: The 308 AR-10 ammo typically achieves velocities ranging from 2,400 to 2,600 feet per second (fps) from a rifle barrel. This high velocity ensures excellent downrange performance and rapid bullet expansion upon impact.
• Accuracy: The 308 AR-10 ammo is known for its excellent accuracy, making it a popular choice for long-range shooting and hunting applications.
• Terminal Ballistics: The 308 AR-10 ammo offers excellent terminal ballistics, delivering deep penetration and high energy transfer upon impact. This makes it suitable for hunting medium to large game animals.

Applications

The 308 AR-10 ammo is versatile and suitable for various applications, including hunting, long-range shooting, and tactical use.

• Hunting: The 308 AR-10 ammo is an excellent choice for hunting medium to large game animals, such as deer, elk, and moose. Its combination of bullet weight, velocity, and terminal ballistics ensures effective penetration and energy transfer upon impact.
• Long-Range Shooting: The 308 AR-10 ammo is well-suited for long-range shooting applications, thanks to its excellent accuracy and ballistics. It is a popular choice among competitive shooters and hunters who require precise shots at extended distances.
• Tactical Use: The 308 AR-10 ammo