Trying this question again.

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tjndaltx

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In reloading, can I use a 308 bullet in a 30-06 case. Is that safe?

I am NOT talking about loaded ammunition. I am talking about a "bullet", a 308 bullet - all by itself. Can I load it in a 30-06 case and shoot it.

I KNOW I cannot shoot a 308 round in a 30-06.
 
The 30-06 and the .308 Win use the same diameter 30 caliber bullet at .308". So the proper bullet you load is a .308 diameter bullet in your -06. Generally the bullets used in the .308 Winchester and other 30 caliber rifles are appropriate in the -06 too. Check your load manual for the bullet weight and the correct load data for it.

Some .308" diameter bullets may not be the best application for the -06, in particular those flat point thin jacketed bullets designed for the lower velocity 30-30, however they could still be loaded.
 
Yes. 308 is really referring to the bullet diameter,which is 308 thousands of a inch,rather then a specific cartridge. A .308 bullet will be the correct choice in any number of .30 cals,from .30 carbine to .300 WBY.
 
Before you stuff one in a 30-06 case, read a few reloading manuals first. Many such questions will be answered within the pages.
~z
 
Hey, there's already a thread on this question!
Maybe that guy over there can give you the answer.
(Just kidding :neener:. I think everyone understands the question now.)
 
You are good to go. Read as much as you can before you put your hands on any reloading equipment. See if you can find a reloading mentor to walk you through it too. I had a friend do that for me, and I learned so much in just one hour.
 
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Actually, there are no ".308" or ".30-06" bullets, as such. A .30 cal bullet is a .30 cal bullet.

Some are made for the high velocities from magnums, some for midrange speeds and some are made for low velocities/tubular magazines but bullets of a given diameter are really NOT cartridge specific.
 
You guys, I really appreciate your input and answers.

And yes, I'm reading up on reloading. I've got the Lyman book, the ABC's of Reloading, Lee's Modern Reloading.

Thanks again.
 
I've measured 30 caliber bullets that went from .3069" up to .3092" That's a bit over two thousandths inch spread.
 
Obviously the confusion is in "308". Some have interpreted it as the 308 Winchester cartridge, while others as a 0.308 diameter bullet. Yes, the 30-06 cartridge fires a 0.308 diameter bullet, which I believe answers tjndaltx's original question. As ~Z stated, I think a good manual or two would be in order as that question would be generally regarded as so simple that the answer is basic knowledge. Metallic Cartridge Reloading is a good book, in my opinion, and I like that they give a bit of a background as to the history and development of the each different cartridges. I think mine is the 3rd edition, its from 1996, a bit old but interesting. Happy Shooting...!
 
And yes, I'm reading up on reloading. I've got the Lyman book, the ABC's of Reloading, Lee's Modern Reloading.
Click to expand...

Awesome, that's the important part. I've kept a reloading manual as a bathroom reader ever since I started reloading. Good luck, be safe!
 
I would simply say that you had BETTER use a .308 bullet in a .30-06! Anything else (normal variation accepted) and you will have BIG problems and excitement!
 
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