I'm trying to find out if the Famae SG542 is cross compatible with the .308 and 7.62x51 cartridges. I've seen both cartridges mentioned in advertisements and reviews. Does anyone have first hand knowledge of this question?
There is no practical difference between the two. One is the military designation, the other the civilian naming for it. I have shot a ton of surplus ammo out of commercial 308s. No reason you couldn't do the same in reverse, commercial from a Milsurp rifle.
308 rounds are loaded to higher pressure. Either can be shot from a 308 but it is not recommended to shoot a 308 in a 7.62x51 rifle. The same is true for a 5.56. 5.56 can shoot either 5.56 is loaded to higher pressures and should not be fired through a 223 stamped rifle
I'm curious about this too. I'm thinking about using my SG-542 for deer hunting but I'm not sure if the internals can take .308 WIN higher pressure. I know a M1 Garand can sustain serious damage over time (op rod, carrier group) if one uses commercial .308 WIN ammo in it.
.308 is loaded to higher SAAMI pressures than 7.62, but most rifles shoot either just fine. I would contact the manufacturer and ask if it’s ok to use the 308 in the 7.62