The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - What classifies a small/medium/large(big) bore rifle?

Jimro · November 18, 2012, 12:28 AM

8 mm and below is small bore. The German 8x57IS was the biggest of the cartridges allowed in "small bore" competitions. I guess since the competition rules have moved on the definition may have changed.

8 to 10 mm is medium bore. You will find a lot of reference to the 375 H&H as a "medium bore" round.

Over 10 mm is big bore.

In America small bore is now synonymous with rimfire, although I don't know how that developed. In some countries "fullbore" refers to a service rifle competition (in 308 Win).

Jimro

November 18, 2012, 12:28 AM	#11
Jimro Senior Member Join Date: October 18, 2006 Posts: 7,097	8 mm and below is small bore. The German 8x57IS was the biggest of the cartridges allowed in "small bore" competitions. I guess since the competition rules have moved on the definition may have changed. 8 to 10 mm is medium bore. You will find a lot of reference to the 375 H&H as a "medium bore" round. Over 10 mm is big bore. In America small bore is now synonymous with rimfire, although I don't know how that developed. In some countries "fullbore" refers to a service rifle competition (in 308 Win). Jimro __________________ Machine guns are awesome until you have to carry one.