.303 British

Caliber Overview
The .303 British is a historic rimmed rifle cartridge developed in 1889 for the British military, serving as a mainstay in both World Wars and beyond. This caliber gained fame through its use in the iconic Lee-Enfield rifle, making it a favorite among collectors, hunters, and enthusiasts. Primarily designed for military applications, the .303 British has evolved into a versatile option for hunting medium to large game, target shooting, and vintage firearm restoration. Its legacy combines reliability with effective performance at medium ranges, appealing to those who appreciate classic ballistics in modern contexts. At AmmoSouth, we offer high-quality .303 British ammunition to keep this timeless caliber alive for shooters worldwide.
Key Specifications
The .303 British features a bullet diameter of 0.303 inches (7.7mm) and typical grain weights ranging from 150 to 180 grains, providing a balance of velocity and stopping power. Ballistically, it delivers muzzle velocities around 2,400 to 2,600 feet per second, depending on the load, with effective accuracy up to 300 yards. Recoil is moderate, making it manageable for most shooters without excessive fatigue during extended sessions. This caliber is compatible with a variety of firearms, including the Lee-Enfield series, Enfield No. 4 rifles, and some modern reproductions or custom builds. Popular brands like Hornady, Sellier & Bellot, and Prvi Partizan ensure consistent quality in our AmmoSouth inventory.
Applications
In hunting scenarios, the .303 British excels for medium-sized game such as deer, elk, and black bear, thanks to its reliable penetration and energy transfer. It’s also popular in competitive shooting and long-range target practice, where precision is key. For tactical applications, surplus military loads are favored by collectors and historical reenactors, offering a nod to its wartime roots. While not ideal for self-defense due to its rifle platform, it’s valued in rural or wilderness settings for its stopping power. AmmoSouth stocks options tailored for these diverse uses, ensuring shooters have access to ammunition that meets their specific needs.
Ammunition Types
Available in various bullet types, .303 British ammunition caters to different purposes. Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds are ideal for range training and plinking, providing reliable feeding and accuracy without expansion. Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) or soft point bullets are preferred for hunting, as they expand upon impact for enhanced terminal performance and humane takedowns. We also offer surplus military loads with FMJ designs for collectors. At AmmoSouth, brands like Hornady provide modern variations, such as their InterLock bullets, which combine accuracy with controlled expansion for ethical hunting.
Key Benefits
The .303 British stands out for its exceptional accuracy and reliability, often surpassing similar calibers like the .30-30 Winchester in long-range performance while remaining affordable due to abundant surplus options. Its moderate recoil enhances shooter comfort, making it accessible for beginners and experts alike, and its rimmed design ensures smooth cycling in compatible firearms. Compared to more modern cartridges, it offers versatility for both historical and practical use, with cost-effective pricing that doesn’t compromise quality. Shoppers at AmmoSouth appreciate the caliber’s enduring value, backed by our commitment to premium products from trusted manufacturers.
For the best selection of .303 British ammunition, trust AmmoSouth as your go-to retailer. Browse our extensive inventory today, stock up on high-quality rounds, and elevate your shooting experience with reliable performance and unbeatable value. Whether you’re a hunter, collector, or competitor, AmmoSouth has everything you need—order now and shoot with confidence!