Long range big game caliber

[Derek M.]

I recommend the 7 Rem Mag. I have 2. I really chewed on building a 7 WSM but 2 builders said they are a bit harder on barrels. I'll take a pic of mine that I just built and post it. I plan on shooting out to 1000 yards with it if need be.

Stiller Predator Action
Jewel trigger at 1 pound
700 Bottom metal
McMillan stock
26" Krieger #4
Talley integral mounts
NF NXS 5.5x22x56 zero stop, MOAR, 1/4 adjustment

Load:
168 Berger VLD seated 0.010 off lands
73 gr Retumbo
Win brass (new)
Fed 215 match primer

If I could do anything different, I'd go for the McMillan EDGE stock which is lighter.

Here's a pic of my 4 new rifles

[Derek M.]

From top to bottom:

6.5-284
7mag
270
280

[ntg]

A 280AI would be a serious contender for me now that is has been "officialized". Just a little better performance vs. 270wsm in same bullet weight generally speaking, but probably not enough to make enough difference. That's when keeping bullets to a 140 grains.

If you want to go beyond that a 270WBY, or a 300WSM in 165 gr pill is the max I'd like to take that I think would still do the job.

[COBrad]

That's a nice looking group of rifles, but your camera musta done one of those turn-the-image-around jobbies. The bolts are all on the wrong side!

For longest range shooting with the 270 WSM the Matrix 165 gr VLD is said to have an actual G7 BC of .337, or a G1 of .659. This is identical to the BC of the 180 gr Berger Hunting VLD. I've shot several hundred of the Bergers out of my 7 Rem mag this summer, at ranges as far as 1380 yards.
When I get the chance to really wring them out, I intend to give the Matrix a serious try.

[Derek M.]

Originally Posted by COBrad

That's a nice looking group of rifles, but your camera musta done one of those turn-the-image-around jobbies. The bolts are all on the wrong side!

yea, lucky me, right handed, left eye dominant.

The 270 and 280 are identical other than barrels. Both are Stiller TAC 300 actions, Jewels, McM Edge stocks, and the 270 has a Krieger, the 280 a Shilen.

280/Shilen shoots great. Not enough time with 270 yet. Just got those 2 in early October.

[ntg]

I was just reading the announcement about the new Accubond Long Range bullets. If their ballistics are correct, I see no need for anything above a .277 cartridge for what you're asking for. Definitely no need to go beyond .284 in a 280AI or 7WSM.

Here's the news if you didn't catch it yet: Nosler Accubond Long Range Bullets