Best Hunting Calibers for Wild Hog: .308 Win, .30-06, .223 Rem, .300 BLK, and 7.62x39mm Compared
Choosing the right caliber for wild hog hunting just got easier.
Wild hog hunting is as thrilling as it is challenging, but choosing the right caliber can feel like a shot in the dark. With so many options available, how do you pick the one that delivers the perfect balance of power, accuracy, and versatility? Today, we’re breaking down five popular calibers—.308 Win, .30-06, .223 Rem, .300 BLK, and 7.62x39mm—to help you make an informed decision before your next hunt.
Caliber Comparisons
| Feature | .308 Win | .30-06 | .223 Rem | .300 BLK | 7.62x39mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Muzzle Velocity The speed of the bullet as it exits the barrel, affecting range and penetration. |
2,800 fps (.308 Win) | 2,900 fps (.30-06) | 3,200 fps (.223 Rem) | 2,200 fps (.300 BLK) | 2,400 fps (7.62x39mm) |
| Effective Range The maximum range where the caliber is effective for hunting. |
800 yards | 1,000 yards | 500 yards | 300 yards | 400 yards |
| Recoil The amount of kick felt when firing, affecting comfort and follow-up shots. |
Moderate | High | Low | Low | Moderate |
| Ammo Availability How easy it is to find and purchase ammunition. |
Widely Available | Widely Available | Widely Available | Moderately Available | Widely Available |
| Best Use Case The ideal hunting scenario for this caliber. |
Medium to large hogs at long range | Large hogs at long range | Small to medium hogs at close range | Close-range hogs in dense cover | Medium hogs at moderate range |
.308 Win
The .308 Win is a versatile and widely popular hunting caliber, known for its excellent balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. It’s a favorite among hunters targeting medium to large game, including wild hogs.
Pros
- Great long-range performance
- Widely available ammo
- Moderate recoil
Cons
- Heavier rifles
- Overkill for smaller hogs
Interesting Fact: The .308 Win is so reliable that it’s used by military snipers around the world.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a reliable, all-around caliber for medium to large hogs at various ranges.
.30-06
The .30-06 is a classic hunting caliber with a long history of taking down big game. Its power and range make it an excellent choice for large hogs, especially at extended distances.
Pros
- Exceptional power and range
- Versatile for various game
- Proven track record
Cons
- High recoil
- Overkill for smaller hogs
Interesting Fact: The .30-06 was originally developed for military use in 1906 and has been a hunter’s favorite ever since.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re targeting large hogs at long distances and don’t mind a bit of shoulder punishment.
.223 Rem
The .223 Rem is a lightweight, low-recoil caliber that’s ideal for smaller hogs or hunters who prioritize quick follow-up shots. While it lacks the stopping power of larger calibers, it’s effective with precise shot placement.
Pros
- Low recoil
- Lightweight rifles
- Affordable and widely available ammo
Cons
- Limited stopping power
- Less effective on large hogs
Interesting Fact: The .223 Rem is the civilian version of the 5.56 NATO round used by militaries worldwide.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting smaller hogs or prefer a lightweight, low-recoil setup.
.300 BLK
The .300 BLK is a modern caliber designed for close-range hunting in dense cover. Its subsonic options make it a favorite for suppressed hunting setups.
Pros
- Great for close-range hunting
- Low recoil
- Ideal for suppressed setups
Cons
- Limited range
- Less effective on large hogs
Interesting Fact: The .300 BLK was developed to optimize performance in AR-15 platforms with short barrels.
Consider this Caliber If…
You’re hunting in thick brush or prefer a suppressed rifle for stealthy hog hunts.
7.62x39mm
The 7.62x39mm is a rugged, reliable caliber often associated with AK-47s. It’s a solid choice for medium-sized hogs at moderate ranges, offering good stopping power without excessive recoil.
Pros
- Affordable ammo
- Moderate recoil
- Good stopping power
Cons
- Limited range
- Less accurate at long distances
Interesting Fact: The 7.62x39mm has been in continuous military use since 1943, making it one of the most battle-tested calibers in history.
Consider this Caliber If…
You want a budget-friendly, reliable caliber for medium-sized hogs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right caliber for wild hog hunting depends on your hunting style, target size, and preferred range. The .308 Win and .30-06 excel at long-range power, while the .223 Rem and .300 BLK are great for close-range or lightweight setups. The 7.62x39mm strikes a balance for moderate-range hunts. Whatever your choice, make sure it matches your needs and hunting environment.