300 RUM vs. 308 BAER

[tkelkhunter]

I'm in the process of building my first custom build and thought I was going to build a 300 RUM. My gunsmith would like to see me build a 308 BAER and thinks I will be a lot more happy with the accuracy at 900 to 1200 yards. I respect my gunsmith a lot but would like to hear your opinions on the 2 calibers. I'm not interested in the .338 format for this build. This will be a hunting gun with Bergers on elk and smaller. Thanks for your input. TK

[dkhunt14]

I would build a 300 Norma. No belt and brass will last.

[durak]

300 RUM all the way! Mine shoots sub 1/2" moa at 1200yds....

[snowpro440]

I would go with the 300wsm no belt here either, on a short action also .

[Gene Jr.]

I have been extremely pleased with my .308 Baer. I had the same conversation, maybe with the same gunsmith. I've not gotten to stretch mine out as far as I'd like yet but the preliminary shooting to 400 has been fantastic. Well under 1/2 minute with 180gr accubonds! It has been the easiest rifle I have ever loaded for. I don't think you will be disappointed with the 308 Baer. No, it does not have all the horsepower of a RUM but you will never feel sorry for picking it.

[backwoods83]

If your speaking of the same 308 Baer I think you are (aka 300wby AI) it gives up nothing to the RUM, may even take a slight advantage. Also brass life is far superior to any RUM brass if you use norma brass. Also what's the deal with the belt, it has NO negative affect whatsoever. This cartridge also holds the IBS 1k light gun record with a .98x" 5 shot group.

[IdahoCTD]

I shoot a .30-8 mag but also have a .308 Baer that I've had for years. The .30-8 mag is easier to load for IMO and you don't have to fireform brass. You'll give up 50-75fps to a 300RUM but the up side is you use considerably less powder, the brass is actually better, and comparing it to the .300 RUM's I've built the .30-8 mag is more accurate.