Choosing the right cartridge for long-range hunting requires careful consideration of various factors. Two popular contenders often top the list for serious hunters: the 7mm Remington Magnum and the 7mm Short Magnum (7mm STW). While both offer impressive power and accuracy, they have key differences that can significantly impact your hunting experience. This in-depth comparison will help you determine which cartridge best suits your needs.
Ballistic Performance: A Head-to-Head Analysis
The most significant difference lies in their ballistic performance. The 7mm Rem Mag, a classic and well-established cartridge, provides excellent long-range accuracy and knockdown power. However, the 7mm STW, developed later, pushes the boundaries further.
Velocity and Energy:
- 7mm Rem Mag: Generally launches 160-grain bullets at around 2,800-3,000 fps (feet per second), delivering substantial energy downrange.
- 7mm STW: Significantly outpaces the 7mm Rem Mag, propelling 160-grain bullets to velocities exceeding 3,100 fps. This higher velocity translates to flatter trajectories and increased energy at extended ranges.
Recoil:
The increased power of the 7mm STW comes at a cost—more recoil. While manageable for experienced shooters, the 7mm STW's sharper recoil might prove challenging for newcomers or those sensitive to recoil. The 7mm Rem Mag, while still powerful, offers a noticeably softer recoil experience.
Effective Range:
Both cartridges are effective at substantial distances. The 7mm STW's higher velocity extends its effective range, allowing for accurate shots at significantly longer distances than the 7mm Rem Mag. However, effective range depends heavily on bullet selection, shooter skill, and environmental conditions.
Case Capacity and Cartridge Dimensions:
The 7mm STW boasts a significantly larger case capacity compared to the 7mm Rem Mag. This translates to the higher velocity and energy we discussed earlier. However, the larger case also means a longer, wider cartridge overall.
Rifle Considerations:
This difference in case size influences rifle design. Rifles chambered in 7mm STW are often larger and heavier, potentially affecting maneuverability in the field. The 7mm Rem Mag, being a more compact cartridge, can be found in lighter-weight rifles, making them more suitable for long treks.
Availability and Cost:
The 7mm Rem Mag, being an older and more established cartridge, enjoys wider availability in terms of ammunition and rifles. This translates to more readily available options and potentially lower costs, especially for ammunition. 7mm STW ammunition and rifles, while increasingly popular, might be less readily available and potentially more expensive in some regions.
Choosing the Right Cartridge: Your Hunting Style Matters
The "better" cartridge ultimately depends on your specific hunting needs and preferences.
7mm Remington Magnum: Ideal for:
- Hunters prioritizing less recoil: The gentler recoil makes it easier to shoot accurately and consistently.
- Those seeking readily available ammunition: The wider availability of ammo makes resupply easier.
- Hunters who prefer lighter-weight rifles: The smaller case allows for rifles with more manageable weight.
- Hunters hunting at moderate ranges: It still delivers excellent performance at ranges typical of many hunts.
7mm Short Magnum (7mm STW): Ideal for:
- Long-range hunters: The higher velocity significantly extends effective range.
- Hunters seeking maximum power: This cartridge delivers superior energy at longer ranges.
- Experienced shooters comfortable with higher recoil: The increased recoil should not deter experienced marksmen.
- Hunters needing the extra reach for exceptionally large game or longer shots: Its flat trajectory is a significant advantage in such situations.
Conclusion: A Matter of Personal Preference and Hunting Style
Both the 7mm Rem Mag and the 7mm STW are powerful cartridges capable of taking down a wide range of game. The ultimate choice comes down to prioritizing recoil management, ammunition availability, effective range requirements, and personal shooting style. Carefully weigh these factors based on your specific hunting circumstances to make the most informed decision. Consulting with experienced long-range shooters or gunsmiths can further refine your understanding and assist in choosing the ideal cartridge for your needs.
