You can shoot a .308 Winchester cartridge in a firearm chambered for 7mm-08 Remington. Both cartridges have very similar dimensions and are based on the same parent case, the .308 Winchester. This means that they can both be fired from a short action rifle.
The primary difference between the two cartridges lies in the bullet they fire. The 7mm-08 Remington, as the name suggests, fires a 7mm bullet, specifically a .284 caliber bullet. On the other hand, the .308 Winchester fires a .308 caliber bullet.
The choice between these two cartridges ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. The 7mm-08 Remington is often favored by hunters for its flatter trajectory, higher velocity, and better long-range performance. The 7mm bullet also tends to have a higher ballistic coefficient, which means it retains its velocity and energy better over longer distances. This can be advantageous when shooting at game animals at extended ranges.
On the other hand, the .308 Winchester is a popular and versatile cartridge that is widely used for hunting, target shooting, and military applications. It has a larger bullet diameter, which can result in slightly larger wound channels and potentially more energy transfer upon impact. The .308 Winchester also tends to have a wider variety of available ammunition, making it easier to find and often more affordable.
It’s important to note that while you can shoot a .308 Winchester cartridge in a 7mm-08 Remington chamber, you should never attempt to shoot a 7mm-08 Remington cartridge in a firearm chambered for .308 Winchester. The 7mm-08 Remington operates at higher pressures and could potentially cause a catastrophic failure if fired in a .308 Winchester chamber.
While both the 7mm-08 Remington and .308 Winchester are great cartridges, they differ primarily in the bullet they fire. It’s crucial to always use the appropriate ammunition for your firearm to ensure safe and reliable performance.