Tag: 7.62mmx51mm NATO

The 7.62mm, also known as the .30 caliber, is used for different pistol, revolver, and rifle cartridges, but it was most commonly used for main battle rifles. The 7.62 refers to barrel’s internal diameter.

One of the most common pistol cartridge to use the 7.62mm caliber is the 7.62x25mm Tokarev, developed by the Soviet Union’s Fedor Tokarev to be used for the TT-30 pistol. Its bullet diameter is 0.307 inches, with a weight of 85 grains, and a muzzle velocity of 1600 feet per second.

The only revolver cartridge that uses the 7.62mm caliber as of today is the .32 H&R Magnum rimmed cartridge which is designed for small-frame revolvers.

The most common rifle cartridge that uses the 7.62mm caliber is the 7.62x51mm NATO. Its civilian counterpart is called the .308 Winchester. Production started in 1952 and has enjoyed a massive following in both the civilian and military markets. What makes the 7.62mm such a good round is its average fps of 2681 and an average grain of 164. This is a classic cartridge that has good power, as well as good internal and external ballistics. Overall, this would make for a great investment for any medium to large-sized game hunter.