The .30-30 Winchester, introduced in 1895 as the .30 WCF (Winchester Center Fire), was the first American small-bore sporting cartridge loaded with smokeless powder. Chambered initially in the Winchester Model 1894 lever-action rifle, it defined the deer-hunting cartridge class for generations. The flat-nosed or round-nosed bullet requirement — dictated by tubular magazine safety — limits ballistic coefficient, but within 200 yards the cartridge is entirely adequate for whitetail deer and similar medium game. It remains one of the best-selling rifle cartridges in North America despite being over 130 years old.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1895, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.308" (7.82 mm)
Case length: 2.039" (51.81 mm)
Overall length: 2.55" (64.77 mm)
Max pressure: 42,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:12
Muzzle velocity: 2200–2390 fps
Muzzle energy: 1900–2050 ft-lbs
Effective range: 200 yd
Common bullet weights: 150, 160, 170 gr
Primary use: Hunting
Production status: Active
Also known as: .30 WCF · 7.62x51mmR
History: Introduced in 1895 for Winchester Model 1894 lever-action. First American sporting cartridge to use smokeless powder. Has taken more deer than any other cartridge in North America.
Notable firearms: Winchester Model 1894, Marlin 336, Henry rifles
Similar cartridges: .35 Remington, 7.62x39mm