300WM vs 308 what is the true difference?

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flashselling

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I am torn between these two calibers while I am choosing a new bolt action to add to the collection.

They are two very similar cartridges, but they differ significantly in terms of size, performance, and intended use. Here's what I found .... what do you think?

1. Physical Differences​

  • Case Size:
    • The 300 WM is a belted magnum cartridge, having a belt near the base of the case for headspacing. It's longer (2.62 inches case length) and holds more powder, enabling higher velocities and energy.
    • The 308 Winchester is a shorter cartridge (2.015 inches case length) and is not belted. It's more compact and fits shorter-action rifles.
  • Bullet Diameter: Both use bullets of the same caliber, .308 inches, meaning they fire the same diameter projectiles.

2. Performance​

  • Velocity:
    • The 300 WM typically generates much higher muzzle velocities (e.g., 2,900-3,300 feet per second, depending on bullet weight) because of its larger powder capacity.
    • The 308 Winchester has more moderate velocities (e.g., 2,600-2,800 feet per second).
  • Energy:
    • The 300 WM delivers significantly more energy on target, making it better suited for long-range shooting or hunting large game like elk and moose.
    • The 308, while still effective, is better suited for medium-range engagements and smaller game.
  • Recoil:
    • The 300 WM has much higher recoil due to its greater powder charge and energy.
    • The 308 Winchester has moderate recoil, making it more manageable for most shooters.

3. Range and Accuracy​

  • 300 WM:
    • Known for its long-range capabilities, it remains effective and retains energy at distances exceeding 1,000 yards.
  • 308:
    • Effective and accurate within 800 yards, though it starts to drop off in performance at extended ranges compared to the 300 WM.

4. Applications​

  • 300 WM:
    • Favored by hunters targeting larger game or shooting at extended ranges.
    • Used in long-range precision shooting and military sniper applications.
  • 308:
    • Popular for hunting medium-sized game like deer.
    • Commonly used in target shooting, law enforcement, and military applications.

5. Cost and Availability​

  • 300 WM: Generally more expensive due to larger powder charges and specialized use cases. Ammunition is slightly less commonly available than 308.
  • 308: Cheaper and widely available, making it a popular choice for recreational shooters.

Summary​

  • Choose 300 WM for long-range shooting, big game hunting, or if you need higher energy and extended range.
  • Choose 308 Winchester for general-purpose hunting, shorter ranges, and lower recoil needs.

I have decided to go for the 308.. I hope to not regret this decision. If you have any thoughts or anything to add experience wise, please feel free to participate in this thread.
 
308 with proper bullet selection will do everything in Canada....some of the extreme outliers aside....altho it will take big bears if the shooter is up to it.

The elevated level of recoil/blast/expense is a thing....one would needs to have a reason for the extra range and horsepower to justify these things IMO

Extended range...without rainbow trajectory and retain ing energy at long distance is the WMs forte...if you need/want it you'll know.

Another big advantage to 308 is it doesnt have to be overly heavy...The short action and 20~22in bbl are ideal for 308 and make a very friendly carryable rifle
 
With my 308 I push 178gr at 2750 fps, it’s 2990 ft/lb of energy at the muzzle. To there is no need for a 300wm unless you want to kill a moose 1 mile away. If so I’d suggest a 338 LM
 
I use my 300 wm for elk, but I have more love for the .308 cartridge. I tried playing with the 300 at longer ranges, but I bought a savage 10tr as a dedicated long range gun as 308 is way cheaper to load for. I like having the power of the 300 winmag with 200 gr bullets for elk, but if I could only have one rifle it would be a 308.
 
BattleRife said:
Are we getting threads generated by AI now? Post #1 reads like a bad Google search result.
Click to expand...
Exactly my thought , WTH?!
There are quite a few differences in both cartridges, the only common thing being both use .30 bullets.
They are actually so far apart to my way of thinking that the decision should be instantaneous!
Cat
 
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