Cartridge Selection For Long Range

[408s10]

Hello everyone this is my first post on this forum. I have read many threads and beat my head against the wall trying to decide what cartridge to go with for my long range rifle build. For this rifle I am going to be using it to shoot in some long range matches.
I have already purchased a 7mm 29" Krieger blank (1 in 9 twist) because the gunsmith down the road had it but I am not restricting mysef to this caliber. I can always sell it if something else comes along. Here is what I am thinking for cartridges.

7mm-08
7mm Rem Mag
7mm-300 Win Mag
6.5 Creedmoor
.260 Remington

For an action I am going to go with a Defiance Deviant. And a Jewell Trigger. I guess my main issue is I am looking for a cartridge that is available to be found or easily made (7mm-300). Just would like some opinions on the topic or any other cartridge ideas you guys may have ! Thanks !

 

[MMERSS]

For this rifle I am going to be using it to shoot in some long range matches.

Throw in the 284 Win for consideration. Many 1000 yard match shooters are shooting the 284 Win.

Record-Setting .284 Win F-Classer

 

[ntg]

Aa..two on your list are not 7mm cartridges if you already have the 7mm barrel. Along with the 284win, I'd add the 280AI. I really love my 7-08, but if I wanted a little more speed I'd probably do one of those two. The 7saum actually has a lot going for it, but I'm not sure if it'll catch on and getting components for the 284 and the 280AI will be easier.

A good read: 7mm Cartridge Guide within AccurateShooter.com

 

[Barrelnut]

From your list, and if you are new to the game, I would pick the 6.5 Creedmoor. It is gaining popularity and has VERY GOOD match grade factory ammo at a reasonable price. Incredible inherent accuracy. Most sporting goods stores carry 6.5 Creed ammo these days. It is hard to find match grade factory ammo for some of the others on your list.

 

[gohring3006]

if it was me and I had that barrel it would be the good old 7 rem mag good load data lots of factory ammo options which means plenty of brass relativley cheap to shoot

 

[Deleted member 46119]

You have a 7mm Krieger. If it were me I'd go with some 7mm/284.

None of the 7mm chamberings you listed are very popular for competition but all can be used. 7mm-08 is the hardest to reach that far.

The 260 is well known and extremely capable. The Creedmoor looses a little velocity to the 260 but that's all. If you choose one these two chamberings, tap your ruby slippers together and repeat theres no powder like H4350 powder, theres no powder like H4350 powder (LOL)

I shoot a self built semi custom in 260 to 1000 yards for comps. Oh, it's this week end.

But sticking with the 7mm Barrel, if it were me - in the following order:
284 Winchester
7mm/300WSM
7mmWSM
280 AI

I have an unfinished 284 to try for F-Open or other 1000 yard shooting. So I'd guess I take my own advice.

 

[408s10]

Thanks so much for the suggestions it seems like so far the 284 is the most suggested. My only issue is the brass... Where can you find it?

 

[408s10]

Okay say I went with a 6.5mm. What do you go with?? A 260 or the 6.5 Creedmoor? Are there many differences?

 

[Deleted member 46119]

Thanks so much for the suggestions it seems like so far the 284 is the most suggested. My only issue is the brass... Where can you find it?

The common practice now is to neck op 6.5/284.

I was able to get plenty.

 

[Creedmoor shooter]

Okay say I went with a 6.5mm. What do you go with?? A 260 or the 6.5 Creedmoor? Are there many differences?

Out of the cartridges you listed id go Creedmoor. I have one and my dad does and they are the most accurate rifles that ive seen. The Creedmoor has a shorter length so you can lengthen your bullets while still having the ability to fit in a standard 308 sized magazine. Also buy seating the bullet out longer it wont intrude on powder space giving you alittle extra room. The Creedmoor is gaining popularity very quickly. Much faster than the 260. With nosler brass now available for the Creedmoor quality brass isnt a issue. People say that a 260 is a bit faster but i couldnt tell you because i havent shot one. Im getting a 140 a-max at over 2800 fps and im not even pushing it. I could easily achieve over 2900 fps. I doubt a 260 is any faster than that(someone correct me if im wrong on that one). The 260 is a fine cartridge as well dont get me wrong, i just believe the Creedmoor has a superior design. Thats just my opinion.