Quote Originally Posted by Thunderbox View Post
Really? I'd say that was merely much-repeated myth that simply isn't supported by any evidence.

7.62mm/.308W No4 rifles have been around for decades, and there is no data around to suggest they are in any way inadequate. I had one Envoy accompanied by a log book showing over 9,000 rounds of 155gn match ammo - that one was still tight on a "0" bolt head - and another where the owner had really been stoking it with 168 and 190gn bullets for 1000 yds - ditto on the bolt head.
My experience with 303 1943 and S&B brass is with a low load of 38~39grains of 2208 the stretching is minimal. Take it above 41grains of 2208 and you see the case stretching. Any higher loads ie above 43grains and cases tend to fail in one use. I know this because my digital scale started to read low, (38 was 43) and lower (38 was 47) When I picked it up my no4 wasnt happy. The bolt will now close on a no go gauge and and I had 4 out of 6 cases fail in one go. Quite severe in <50rounds. On top of that I find above 41grains to have to full size as opposed to neck sizing more frequently ie every other or you cant close the bolt on a round. Stretching is typical according to NZ shooters, especially so when they 308 converted their no4s.

Have a look at the 308w ballistics at 1000yds say for 155gr HBC projectiles for (palma TR shooting). To keep them super-sonic out that far needs a min of 45gr+ of 2208. You are going to have to push a 303 a long way to get the same and the BC isnt going to be that good. I wouldn't knowingly fire a 303 that hot.

Army loads are quite moderate by comparison.

---------- Post added at 02:02 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:54 PM ----------
Quote Originally Posted by Bindi2 View Post
The OP is talking about a purpose built match rifle. The 303 in that configuration will hold its own anywhere.
If its a purpose built say Barnard type action chambered in 303brit, I would still say no. If as was commented its based on a no4 action and 1000yds and for match shooting trying to keep it supersonic, no.

I think sometime ppl just dont appreciate how much risk they are taking when they load up guns and especially old guns to try and keep pace with modern match actions. In the last year or two Ive seen enough abused P14, Omark and other old match grade 308w actions that show signs of severe stress not to want to see another.