The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Boat-tail bullets & the 303: Do they mix?

davery25 · October 24, 2011, 06:53 PM

Hi guys,

As per the title, im in the process of buying reloading components for a SMLE 303british rifle that I've just bought and am wondering whether its safe to fire boat tailed bullets from it.

The reason i ask is that Ive read that the boat tail design wears the barrel out faster on these older guns and is why the british army told soldiers not to fire the mk8 machine gun rounds

Anyone know if this is true or not? Obviously firearms knowledge has come a long way since 1940.

October 24, 2011, 06:53 PM	#1
davery25 Senior Member Join Date: October 4, 2011 Location: Australia Posts: 318	Boat-tail bullets & the 303: Do they mix? Hi guys, As per the title, im in the process of buying reloading components for a SMLE 303british rifle that I've just bought and am wondering whether its safe to fire boat tailed bullets from it. The reason i ask is that Ive read that the boat tail design wears the barrel out faster on these older guns and is why the british army told soldiers not to fire the mk8 machine gun rounds Anyone know if this is true or not? Obviously firearms knowledge has come a long way since 1940.