Quoted: Is it really a reality to shoot .308s at 400+ yard distances? How does .308 compare with the .270, 30-06, .260 (to add to the flame , or the .300 Winchester?
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Yes, it is a reality to shoot .308s at 400yds and beyond. In a hunting situation, 300yd shots are common in wide open spaces like here in Wyoming. Beyond that, yes the .308 is still lethal to big game, but the shooter has to be positive about how much it will drop. And, it will drop a good deal compared to the newer/sporter calibers. I have personally witnessed hunters take elk at 400 and 500yds with a .308win. They knew exactly how much it would drop at that range and were excellent judges in distance. That equals a dead elk.
The reason it is popular: It is a NATO round, lots of surplus brass, and the prime reason is it's inherent accuracy. Compared to sporting rounds, the .308 is mild, slow(more arch in trajectory), but still accurate. Flatter shooting calibers are easier to shoot well at unknown distances because there is less room for mistakes in the trajectory. That is why the fast .30's are so popular. They also hit alot harder than the .308win. Would I hunt with one? Ya, I have, long range shots, no. Do I want a .308 "sniper rifle", ya, why?, I don't know. I already have several 700's that will shoot under 1MOA in calibers that make the .308 look antiquated. That's the mystique.