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Fulton Armory seems to be one of the most-respected Garand gunsmiths. Following is a quote from their FAQ:
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>What's better in an M1 Garand: .308 Winchester or .30-'06?
by Clint McKee
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Clint, which chambering should I use with my new M1 barrel: .30-'06 or .308 Win?
Theoretically, the .308 has an ever so slight advantage due to the decreased case volume (the powder does not move around much in a .308 case; more modern powders allow less to be used for similar performance. In the .30-'06 case, the powder has lots of room to lay a bit differently on each shot fired). However, in the DCM/CMP Service Rifle course of fire, such "differences" evaporate for most shooters. However, at long range (e.g., 1000 yards) the .30-06 catridge offers a real advantage, though, not remarkably.
On the other hand, the .30-'06 cartridge has the wonderful ability to offer a little bit more power at reduced chamber pressure levels. Though it seems odd that the .30-06 has less chamber pressures than the .308 and yet a bit more "power," it's nonetheless true. And, since it's the original caliber, it works!
The real difference is cost & availability of ammo. The .308 will be easier to find, and less expensive. However, you may think a long action should be fed "long ammo"!
In the final analysis, it's really a personal choice. Either selction will be the "right one."
Converting a .30-'06 Garand to .308 does require a barrel change, and a slight modification to the ejector spring (not essential but a prudent thing to do). A spacer block in the mag well (to prevent loading .30-06 cartridges) is a really good idea.
Clint McKee
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