Quick Look

The .30-06 Springfield cartridge was introduced by the U.S. Army in 1906 as a versatile rifle round. It offers a balance of power and range for hunting and military use. Today, the .30-06 remains popular among hunters and target shooters worldwide.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Exceptional long-range accuracy and stopping power
• Widely available with diverse bullet weights and types
• Ideal for big-game hunting including deer and elk
• Proven military history and trusted performance
• Compatible with many bolt-action and semi-auto rifles

Key Variants

30-06 Sprg Soft Point

Popular for controlled expansion and reliable hunting performance.

30-06 Sprg Match Grade

Precision-loaded ammo favored for target shooting competitions.

30-06 Sprg Ball M2

Original military ball cartridge used for general purpose shooting.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	30-06	7.62x51mm NATO	.308 Winchester
MSRP	Varies, typically $1.00–$2.00/round	Similar range	Similar range
Capacity/Size	Length 2.494 in / 63.3 mm	Length 2.760 in / 70 mm	Length 2.820 in / 71.12 mm
Weight	Approx. 150–180 gr bullet weight range	140–175 gr typical bullet weights	150–180 gr typical bullet weights
Optics-Ready	Dependent on rifle platform	Many rifles optics-ready	Many rifles optics-ready
Trigger Type	Varies by rifle; bolt-action common	Varies; semi-auto & bolt-action	Bolt-action common
Notable Pro	Versatile, long-proven cartridge	Military standard, robust	Excellent accuracy, widely supported
Notable Con	More recoil than some contemporaries	Slightly less powerful in some loads	Can be less effective at long ranges

Best Use Cases

• Big-game hunting including deer, elk, and moose
• Long-range precision shooting
• Recreational target practice
• Military and law enforcement legacy applications
• Collection for classic and modern rifles chambered in .30-06

FAQs

Can I use .30-06 ammo in a .308 Winchester rifle?

No. The .30-06 Springfield is longer and cannot safely chamber in a .308 Winchester rifle. Use ammunition matching your rifle's chamber specification.

What is the typical bullet weight range for .30-06?

Typical bullet weights range from 150 to 180 grains, suitable for hunting and match shooting loads.

How does .30-06 performance compare to 7.62x51mm NATO?

The .30-06 typically offers higher velocity and energy due to its longer case, making it effective for longer-range hunting.