is 308 short action

2 min read 20-12-2024

Is a .308 Short Action? Understanding Cartridge and Action Compatibility

The question of whether a .308 Winchester cartridge is a "short action" is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. It depends on what rifle action you're referencing. Let's break down the key factors to understand this better.

Understanding Rifle Actions and Cartridge Lengths

A rifle action is the mechanical part of the rifle that houses the cartridge, cycles the action, and ejects spent casings. Different actions are designed to accommodate different cartridge lengths. "Short action," "long action," and "magnum action" refer to the physical length of the receiver and bolt face, dictating the maximum cartridge length they can handle.

The .308 Winchester cartridge is a relatively shorter cartridge. However, whether it fits a "short action" depends entirely on the specific rifle's action design.

.308 Winchester: Short Action Compatibility

Many modern bolt-action rifles designed for .308 Winchester are indeed built on short actions. Manufacturers like Remington 700, Savage Model 11, and Tikka T3 all offer short-action rifles chambered in .308. These actions are specifically engineered to handle the dimensions of the .308 Winchester round reliably and safely.

However, some older or more specialized rifles might use a long action even for .308. This might be due to the design features of the action, or in very rare cases, to accommodate unusually long .308 rounds (although this is uncommon). This is why it's crucial to check the manufacturer's specifications for your specific rifle model.

Factors Affecting Compatibility

Beyond the basic "short action" designation, several other factors influence whether a .308 Winchester will fit a particular rifle:

Magazine Length: Even if the action itself is technically a "short action," the magazine's length may limit the number of cartridges it can hold.
Bolt Face Dimensions: The bolt face must be correctly sized for the .308 Winchester case head. Improper fit here is unsafe and can lead to malfunctions or damage.
Headspace: Headspace is the critical distance between the bolt face and the cartridge case head. Incorrect headspace can be dangerous.
Manufacturer's Specifications: Always consult the manufacturer's specifications for your specific rifle to confirm its compatibility with the .308 Winchester round.

.308 Winchester vs. Similar Cartridges

It's important to distinguish the .308 Winchester from similar rounds. While often confused, the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge is very similar, and some rifles can handle both. However, slight dimensional differences exist, potentially impacting compatibility. Always verify the chambering specifically listed by the manufacturer.

Conclusion: Context Matters

In summary, while many rifles chambered in .308 Winchester use a short action, this isn't universally true. The compatibility depends heavily on the specific rifle's design and manufacturer. Always check the manufacturer's specifications before attempting to chamber a .308 Winchester cartridge in any rifle. Failure to do so can result in serious damage to the firearm or even injury. When in doubt, consult with a gunsmith or qualified firearms expert.