Here’s a comprehensive overview and specifications of .30-06 ammunition:
Category Overview: .30-06 Ammunition
1. General Information
- Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
- Origin: Developed by the U.S. Army in 1906, originally for use in the M1903 Springfield rifle.
- Usage: Widely used for military, hunting, and target shooting.
2. Design and Specifications
- Bullet Diameter: 0.308 inches (7.62 mm)
- Case Length: 2.494 inches (63.3 mm)
- Overall Length: 3.34 inches (84.8 mm)
- Neck Diameter: 0.340 inches (8.64 mm)
- Shoulder Diameter: 0.453 inches (11.51 mm)
- Base Diameter: 0.470 inches (11.94 mm)
- Rim Diameter: 0.473 inches (12.00 mm)
3. Bullet Types
- Full Metal Jacket (FMJ): Often used in military applications for penetration and accuracy.
- Soft Point (SP): Commonly used for hunting, providing expansion upon impact.
- Hollow Point (HP): Designed for rapid expansion; ideal for hunting and self-defense.
- Boat Tail (BT): Enhances ballistic performance and accuracy at longer ranges.
4. Performance
- Muzzle Velocity: Typically ranges from 2,600 to 3,000 feet per second (fps), depending on bullet weight and powder charge.
- Muzzle Energy: Approximately 2,800 to 3,500 foot-pounds (ft-lbs), depending on the load and bullet type.
- Effective Range: Suitable for hunting medium to large game up to 1,000 yards; effective target shooting range is similar.
5. Common Uses
- Hunting: Popular for deer, elk, bear, and other large game due to its power and accuracy.
- Military and Law Enforcement: Used in various military rifles and sniper platforms.
- Target Shooting: Favored for precision shooting due to its performance characteristics.
6. Reloading
- Powder Types: Various powders can be used, including Hodgdon Varget, IMR 4064, and Reloader 15.
- Primers: Large rifle primers are used for .30-06 loads.
- Bullet Weights: Common weights include 150, 165, 180, and 200 grains.
Conclusion
The .30-06 Springfield remains a versatile and powerful cartridge, with a rich history in military and civilian applications. Its wide range of bullet types and weights makes it suitable for various shooting purposes, from hunting to target shooting.
