Mule Deer - Northern AZ - Too many options

[wildgene]

...certainly 'no flies' on the .300WSM. Nosler data shows a 2-3% difference in MV w/ the .300 WM using 10-15% less powder, the .300 WSM actually matches, even overtakes the WM in a shorter barrel (ST Dec'10). Recoil is 'subjective' but even in a light rifle like my T3, I find the muzzle blast/ recoil of the WSM to be noticeably more manageable than any .300 WM I've ever shot. It's a dernfine cartridge choice for a lighter, more compact 'mountain rifle'...

...I'm getting 3200fps+ w/ the 165's & 3050fps w/ the 180's & haven't had any problem getting sub-MOA performance from my Tikka, a Winchester, or 2 Vanguards I've set up w/ either the 165's or 180's...

...Weatherby Vanguard SS/ 200yds./ Rem. Premium 180's...



...Tikka T3 Lite w/ some 165's @200yds...

 

[Oldtrader3]

You don't get velocity for free. The .300 WSM is the same exact capacity as the .300 H&H (less than the .300 WM?). I was not able to get over about 2930 fps with 180 gr bullets in my .300 WSM. There is no free lunch, despite what Marketeer's may say?

 

[wildgene]

You don't get velocity for free. The .300 WSM is the same exact capacity as the .300 H&H (less than the .300 WM?). I was not able to get over about 2930 fps with 180 gr bullets in my .300 WSM. There is no free lunch, despite what Marketeer's may say?

...I didn't have any problem matching the MV's given w/ Alliant's RL-17 data (w/ a 23" barrel). Superformance, on the other hand was pretty disappointing, good accuracy, but I was getting erratic & very low MV's compared to Hodgdon's data. Data for the newer Alliant & Hodgdon powders show some loads that outperform RL-17 in the .300 WSM. There's a lot more to velocity than 'case capacity', a better designed case able to operate @ higher pressures more efficiently w/ the 'designer powders' available can produce more MV/ capacity...

...& just to save some time & effort, the buttery smooth feeding of the .300 H&H, which is still a fine cartridge, requires a full length magnum action. Most of the 'feeding problems' associated w/ the WSM's can be traced back to early rifles, short actions w/ a magnum bolt face, mainly Winchesters & Remingtons. You don't seem to hear a lot about feeding problems w/ rifles made for the WSM's, w/ properly cut feed ramps & sized magazines, or straight feed mags like the Savage & Tikkas. Sorry yer .300 WSM didn't work for you, but the potential is there...

 

[Oldtrader3]

I did not say that it did not work, just that it did not match the hype! It is only a .300 H&H in a short case.

 

[JD338]

I would pick the two most accurate rifles from the bunch.
Hopefully the 7 STW with the 168 gr ABLR is one of them.

JD338

 

[Whitesheep]

Since you're into 7mm I would get a new .280 AI Nosler M48 or maybe a 28. To bad you wouldn't get it in time for the hunt.

That being said you have completely jinxed yourself on getting drawn so it really doesn't matter what you decide now :lol:

I have hunted the Kaibab once and my buddy got a nice 3x3. It is our first two choices every year and I wouldn't be surprised if we never get to go again. BTW the closest store is in Jacob lake and I don't recall them having any ammunition. Bring enough for everyone.

Good luck

 

[Gunner46]

Seriously ? Hands down, the 7mm/08 first. The 308 as backup. We're not talking Alaskan Moose at 1000yds here. You're just as likely get a 50yd shot, as a 400. Either way, those two are going to do you right !