Ultimate Showdown: 6.8 Western Vs 7mm PRC - Which Reigns Supreme?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 มิ.ย. 2024
- Is Hornady's new 7mm PRC living up to the hype? Is Winchester's hot cartridge in the 6.8 Western a complete dud? Find out in this detailed analysis of the 6.8 Western vs 7mm PRC where I investigate the performance of each cartridge in detail and explain which one has the edge in various use cases.
To learn more about popular calibers like the 6.8 Western and 7mm PRC visit: huntingguns101.com/optin16151...
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In this video, I conduct a detailed comparison of the 6.8 Western and 7mm PRC cartridges.
I’ve never seen a cartridge that received as strong of an initial negative reaction when first released as was the case with Winchester and Browning’s 6.8 Western cartridge in 2021. To be fair, that new cartridge hit the market in the midst of a historically bad ammunition shortage and some of the darkest days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the negative reaction some people initially had regarding the 6.8 Western, thousands of hunters scooped up rifles in the new cartridge over the ensuring months and reviews from those who used it on deer, elk, bear, and other big game afield were nearly uniformly positive.
Fast forward to late 2022 and the situation was nearly reversed with another brand new offering from a different company: the 7mm Precision Rifle Cartridge from Hornady.
I’m not exaggerating when I say that I’ve never seen a cartridge make as big of a splash as the 7mm PRC did when it was introduced.
It’s only natural that many hunters would compare two of the newest rifle cartridges that have also evoked the strongest emotions for hunters and shooters to each other.
For that reason, I investigate the 6.8 Western vs 7mm PRC debate in detail and provide some insight into which new rifle cartridge is ideally suited for various hunting situations so you can make an informed decision on which one will work best for your individual needs.
To read a more detailed comparison of the 6.8 Western vs 7mm PRC, visit:
thebiggamehuntingblog.com/6-8...
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7mm PRC vs 6.8 Western
6.8 Western vs 7mm PRC
7 PRC vs 6.8 Western
6.8 Western vs 7 PRC
0:00 Intro
1:46 6.8 Western vs 7mm PRC Cartridge History & Development
15:44 Cartridge Sizes
17:58 Trajectory & Kinetic Energy
24:56 Wind Deflection
28:36 Recoil
30:20 Other Factors: Frontal Area, Sectional Density, & BC
39:30 Ammo Selection
42:55 Rifle Selection
48:13 6.8 Western vs 7mm PRC: Which one is right for you? - กีฬา
![[UNCUT] ฝันรักห้วงนิทรา | EP.8 (4/4)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RDYJYiDwsj0/mqdefault.jpg)
To learn more about popular calibers like the 6.8 Western and 7mm PRC visit: huntingguns101.com/optin1615146914565?TH-cam&HG101&YT&
I’m going to be incredibly disappointed if the 6.8 fades into obscurity. It’s an amazing “one gun” choice
Me too! I think it will probably stick around though
6.8spc was a unicorn.. So don't expect much lol
Chin up fellow shooter. Good news on the way. In the next week or so I should be in possession of my JGS 270-7PRC Reamer. I sent a 7PRC brass necked down to 0.277 holding a 170 Berger VLD bullet. Good news: 7PRC is here to stay, will have lots of brass available to convert to 270-7PRC. Bad news: 6.8 Western is NOT well supported and will NOT be as evidenced by the current and past status since its introduction. It's going by by just like many of the WSMs and WSSMs.
In the near future you can upgrade to a 270-7PRC.
@@SirDadbodthe 6.8 spc is an anemic hunting cartridge. The 6.8 western is moose capable as well as anything smaller than moose with ease.
Just look and see who's doin brass...... No One...lol
I think both are great. I think 6.8w makes its case for being true short action and an awesome one at that. Just need more bullets and brass.
100%!
and rifles and factory options for ammunition so many bad points
6.8 western is such a great cartridge. I hope the following continues to grow. It seems to be finally picking up
100%!
ADG is supposed to produce 6.8W brass this year. Saw several posts about people who stopped and talked to them at SHOT show. Great news!
Good news indeed!
I can say from personal experience that the 6.8 Western with the 165 ABLR factory load is an absolute hammer and whereas the 175 ELDX in my 7 rem mag would also pole axe game with equal authority, I got pass throughs with the ABLR in the 6.8 but not with the ELDX out of the 7 mag. l like exit wounds and for this reason I feel the ABLR is better for big game than the ELDX, and I recommend the ABLR for either of these cartridges. One thing going for the 6.8 is that there is a factory load with that bullet. But if you are a hand loader there are NO sources of brass that I am aware of. Even Winchester no longer offers their brass for the 6.8 Western. But if you shoot factory loads, get the 165 ABLR and don't look back. The 6.8 Western is an incredible round but unless other manufacturers of ammo or brass start producing it it will never approach the popularity of the 7 PRC. And certainly, a 175 ABLR out of the 7 PRC would be every bit as awesome or more so.
Yeah, I feel the same way about the 175gr ELDX vs 165gr ABLR. I'm very happy to hear that Nosler will now be offering the 175gr ABLR for the 7mm PRC in a factory load (they literally just announced this ammo this January).
7 MM RSAUM almost identical or 270-7mm WSM cases easy to reform
I have two 6.8 Westerns, one target and one hunting. It is a great cartridge. If Hornady created it, it would be as popular as the 7mm PRC. Hornady is doing everything to not acknowledge the 6.8 Western. You know they have 270 bullet design ready to produce in the 160 to 175 gr range, but are holding back wanting the 6.8 Western to die. In Hornady’s back room, I can hear them talking. You know I am correct.
1000%.
There’s a pod cast where one of them says they just want it to die
I'd love to hear that specific episode. Can you please share a link?
Funny thing on Paper the 7 PRC looks better than the 6.8 Western... And is why I say paper lies. That 165 gr. 6.8 accubond keeps getting quoted at 2970fps. but live chrono shows them doing 3060 fps. Then the 7 PRC keeps getting quoted as over 3k fps but I watch a tuber test every factory load for 7 PRC amd not a single one broke 3k... funny cause again paper says opposite to real world results.
I had a 6.8 western and 7 prc built. Both are shooting 3050-3060 with the 165 ABLR and 175 ELD-X federal premium version with 26 inch barrels. Love them both so much. I think for a pure backcountry hunting rifle the 6.8 is the ultimate round. For target shooting or hunting where weight isn’t as big of a deal 7 prc is hard to pass up.
You're definitely right about the 6.8 Western in a lightweight backcountry hunting rifle. 7mm PRC rifles can be darn lightweight as well, but not quite on the level of the 6.8 Western. I think the fact that the 6.8 Western is such a great choice for that specific niche will be what keeps the cartridge around for a long time.
Great cartridges! I just wish hunters would not use them for long range hunting. Even if these and other cartridges are capable of killing at long ranges. The uncontrollable variables like wind and human errors and even more game recovery difficulties make this practice unethical. Hunters need to stop being want to be snipers. Leave that for the target shooters.
100%
If your only choice to feed your starving family was a deer at 750 yards, you wouldn't try and take a shot?
Not much of a problem after WWll. Especially if you can afford a $600+ gun and $40+ a box ammo. Add Scope and others. Buying a 1/4 cow is cheaper than that. And doesn't require terrible hunting ethics justified by a "starving" family.
Totally agree. Tornado has caused alot of the time unethical long shots with their marketing.
Hornady
I don’t know why but I’d really like to see the 6.8 western in Ruger American gen II
That would be cool!
lol I agree. I actually emailed ruger before the gen2 came out asking them if they would ever release the American in 6.8 western. They never answered 😅
Agreed!! Another manufacture that could really help the Western is Tikka!!
Oh yeah!
I wish Browning would bring back their BLR lever action and chamber it in 6.8 Western: If they could offer a BLR chambered in .308 WIN, they should be able to chamber one in 6.8 Western--and so should Big Horn Arms (they make a lever action that can handle the .500 Remington magnum, so they should be able to make a lever gun that can handle the 6.8 Western).
This was a very good video. You got all the points that I considered prior to choosing between these two.
I ultimately chose the 6.8 Western due to the true short action. I was back and forth between these two for several months before I finally pulled the trigger on the Christiansen Arms Ridgline 6.8 Western. Very light rifle, it weighs in at 5.2 lbs. it’s very accurate, and I’m still in the middle of breaking in the barrel. So far, I’ve been impressed.
My buddy took a very large elk @ 570 yards with his Browning Xbolt 6.8 Western, and it was a one shot kill. I knew of its capabilities at that point which solidified my choice. He shot a bull the year before at a little over 400 yards. I have another friend who has the 7mm PRC and it’s performed very well in the field. So I knew both have the capabilities that I was looking for. The only reason I chose the 6.8 was the short action. The ballistics of the PRC kept pulling me back, but I’m a fan of short action rifles, so that’s what tipped the scale.
Both are terrific cartridges, and I think their performance will only enhance that in time. I personally don’t see them going anywhere for quite sometime. For those of us who hunt in the deep canyons in the PNW, these two cartridges are perfect.
Again, terrific video, and well done 👍
Glad you enjoyed the video! I have to ask: do you recall what ammo your buddy used in his 6.8 Western to kill the elk you referred to?
I do. He was using the 170 gr Winchester Silvertip. He used the 175 gr Browning Long Range Sierra Game Kings the year before. He said his rifle liked that ammo, but it was pencil holing through the elk. It took three shots to drop his bull.
He said the Silvertips was more devastating compared to the Game Kings. The Silvertip was around 540-570 yards, and took one hit. I was there, and that bull didn’t move but 20 yards and dropped. I wasn’t there with the 1st bull, but he said he was around 470 yards. He said that bull just stood there after his first shot and second shot. He didn’t move much after that third either. He said it was the weirdest thing he’d ever seen. I’ve heard others claim the GameKings worked terrific for them, so I’m not sure.
We hunt the Hells Canyon and Salmon River region, so long shots are typical for us. I’ve been using my 6.5 PRC and have good success, but I wanted something that has a little more power, and I wanted another rifle that was lighter than my current CVA Cascade. Hence the reason why I chose the Christiansen Arms Ridline FFT in 6.8 Western. I’ve ordered a handful of 155 grain Barnes LRX and a handful of 165 grain Nosler Accubonds and will see what works best once my barrel is broken in.
At the moment, I’m breaking in my barrel using Winchester Power Point since they are abundantly available on the shelves at Sportsman’s. They shoot well enough, but they don’t feed well in my Ridgline. The soft point hangs up on the ramp, so I just load one at a time. I don’t plan on hunting with this ammo.
Christensen is also building rifles in 6.8 western
Yep, they picked up the 6.8 Western in early 2023. Great to have them on board!
I purchased mine about two months ago. Still breaking in my barrel, but it’s a sweet rifle and proven to be very accurate. I picked up their all carbon Ridgline, and mounted a Leupold VX-3 (only 11oz). My entire setup weighs under 7 lbs.
It’s the perfect Mountain rifle and cartridge.
Very impressive and informative! 👍
Glad you liked it!
Just found your channel and subscribed . Great content
Awesome, thank you!
I really enjoyed your comparison , like both cartridges and hope both do well . i purchased X Bolts chambered in 7 PRC and 300 PRC . Neither "new" cartridge detracts from my continued enjoyment of my 30-06, 7 RM or 300 WM rifles for hunting .
Glad you enjoyed it!
6.8 Western is great. I did not get my tag pulled this year, but enjoy target shooting until (hopefully) October. I do wish there was better brass out there without modifying other cases. I did hear that another braas company was going to pick it up (ADG), but I dont trust anything like that until I see it.
Great video, both are fantastic options 👍
Glad you enjoyed the video!
I'd love to see more rifles chambered in 6.8 Western and yes more ammo options!
100%!
I just purchased a Fierce Carbon Rival FP in 6.8 Western. I already own (2) 6.5 PRCs, (2) 6.5 Creedmoors, and (2) .308 Winchesters. I wanted something different and when my favorite gun shop reached out to me about a new 7mm PRC in the Fierce Carbon Rival, I ran down to buy it. When I got there, they evidently didn't read the package correctly as it turned out to actually be a 6.8 Western. I was intrigued and, although concerned about the long term acceptance and availability of ammo, I purchased it anyway as I have a real soft spot for .277 caliber rifles. I will shoot the rifle in the next few days weather permitting, but I am a bit dismayed that not more ammo manufacturers have signed on to load this caliber yet.
I was looking at the same rifle, but I went with the Charter Arms Ridgline instead. Only reason was because it weighed 5.2lbs. It’s been a terrific rifle and the cartridge is very accurate.
I still have my eye on that Fierce rifle. Maybe I’ll pick one up, just in a different cartridge. I’m intrigued with the new 22 Creedmoor.
Of course we must remember, that Hornady lies about their velocities by up to 200 ft./s. Winchester is spot on. If you run those over your chronograph, you will see that the 6.8 outshines the 7PRC significantly.
I think both cartridges are very good choices. I will be going with a 7PRC for multiple reasons.
1. I will be hunting with monolithic bullets and i like the 160 CX.
2. It's currently available in the rifle i want.
3. Quality brass is easier to find.
4. My cloudy crystal ball says the PRC is more likely to be around long term.
5. The factory ammo controversy isn't important to me. I'll be hand loading anyway.
Enjoy whatever you choose. Both are very good.
I listen to your Podcast all the time, just put 2and 2 together🤔. 😉
Awesome! Thank you!
Great review. Hornady is great at marketing and working with shooters. I do have a 7mm PRC an inexpensive Mossberg Patriot. It did not shoot the Hornady ammo very well, but I have been reloading and it's amazingly accurate. The comparison is kind of like apples and oranges but a very good one. I like apples and oranges too. The right tool for the job is always the best choice. Some people will choose a short action rifle every time. I myself would go with the 7mm PRC if I could only have one rifle just because of versatility and its advantages. If one needed follow up shots on the fly the short action would be better. But I pretty much am a one-shot guy with the way I hunt. I think with either cartridge being a reloader is an advantage. The factory ammo for these cartridges is pretty high priced. If you are looking for real precision it could cost a bundle to find the cartridge your rifle likes unless you're not that fussy or get lucky. I was hoping to get lucky and not reload for the 7mm PRC, but I am reloading for it now, but am very happy none the less. Not so much if I had to shoot factory loads. BTW I do have many rifles and must admit I have more than I need. I'm the guy that would just have both if I thought I needed them.
If only the 7 PRC actually got 3,000 fps...
Mine gets 2,950fps out of a 22" barrel. Very reasonable to expect 3,000fps out of a 24" barrel like Hornady advertises.
I also have the ridgeline fft but haven't had enough time on the range to chrono the factory ammo. My comment was based on hearsay from other TH-cam videos. I hope my experience is similar to yours. I have a smattering of cartridges from Choice and factory I need to test. Can I ask what your rifle likes?
Federal ammo and handloads will get 3,000 Hornady ammo u looking at 2,850 I have seen personally the 170 Federal terminal ascent hit 3,020 out of a 24 inch barrel
Do you get 2950 fps with handloads or factory ammo?
I just looked in my notes and I see I was getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELDX bullets. I just got some Terminal Ascent ammo the other day and have only shot it a little, but IIRC, I was getting about 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet. All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel.
I appreciate your videos.
However, because Hornady ignores the 6.8 Western, I am boycotting all Hornady products. I will only buy Remington, Winchester, and Federal ammo for my Savage 99C rifle in .308 WIN and for my Ruger Mini-14 in .223. As for my Browning X-Bolt rifle in 6.8 Western, obviously I will use Winchester and Browning ammo. If more of us boycott Hornady, they should "see the light" and finally produce 6.8 Western ammo/reloading products.
Glad you enjoy the videos!
You're welcome to do what you want with ammo purchases, but it's also worth pointing out that Federal and Remington do not produce 6.8 Western ammo either...
Oh, I know, but Hornady from what I've read doesn't even post reloading data for 6.8 Western. Is that true?
Revisiting this comparison in light of some recent vids showing 7 PRC velocities (hunting ammo) "can be" up to 200 fps slower than advertised in field chronos. Essentially making these almost even in down range energy.
You're correct. If you haven't already done so, I'd advise watching my other video talking about 7mm PRC velocities (th-cam.com/video/4z28TJTQ-Rg/w-d-xo.html ). Some loads achieve advertised performance, but others do not. I plan on doing another 6.8 Western vs 7mm PRC comparison in the near future using observed velocities at the range.
I'm actively picking a 7mm PRC. I think I'm going to end up going with the mossberg patriot. I have one in 6.5 Creedmoor and it's the most accurate rifle I've ever seen. I. Just hesitant atm because I currently live in SC and there isn't any game here that I need that big of a cartridge for
That Mossberg Patriot is a great rifle, especially for what it costs
@Thebiggamehuntingblog probably going to go with that one. I love the one I have in 6.5 Creedmoor. I put a gunskin on it last week
When the 6.8 came out I was extremely excited to get it as a “do it all” gun but waited to see if it would catch on at all. It seems like 7mmPRC is catching all the hype instead.
You may want to redo this video. Not because its bad or anything, just because of the velocities you use for the 7prc are advertised box velocities. And i know most cartridges dont achieve box velocity but its common to see the 175s out of the prc barely achieve 2850 with a 24in barrel let alone the 3000fps posted. 150fps behind what was advertised puts it into a lesser category of cartridge in my opinion. Love the videos keep them coming.
Thanks for the comment and I understand why you feel that way about 7mm PRC velocities. It sure is frustrating to shoot ammo that's going way slower than advertised. Check out my new video for a little more context and why I think 3,000fps with a 175gr ELD-X is indeed a reasonable muzzle velocity with a 24" barrel and with the right ammo: th-cam.com/video/4z28TJTQ-Rg/w-d-xo.html
Reports from TH-camrs that have chronograph the Hornady loads for 7 prc is that they are only getting 2800 to 2900 fps. Is Hornady lying?
I'm personally getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELDX bullets. I just got some Federal Terminal Ascent ammo the other day and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar. Maybe I just have a "fast barrel", but the results I'm seeing with my own eyes make me inclined to believe that ~3,000fps out of a 24" barrel (which is what Hornady advertises their velocities with) is reasonable.
Shot the 175 ELDX precision hunter and got 2985 with a Garmin Xero, shot the 180 ELD match and got 2910, both were shot out of a 24" Bergara. Have handloads that are pushing the 175 at 3050 with Reloder 26. Getting pretty consistent 1/2 - 3/4" MOA 10 shot groups with the Match and consistent 1/2" 10 shot groups with the handload from a bench rest.
Hornady usually uses OPTIMAL parameters and a 26” barrel. But I have never gotten box values on ANY manufacturer.
Factory ammo when shot across a chronograph is disappointing, but I recommend it , don’t go off the stated velocities.
I'm personally getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELDX bullets. I just got some Terminal Ascent ammo the other day and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar.
So you would buy a dial for your scope off what is stated on the box. My point was to chronograph factory loads, and hand loads for that matter. So glad you are getting better than stated performance out of the federal, unfortunately that has never been my experience with factory ammo.
You're definitely right about the importance of chronographing ammo. I've had results all over the board myself. Sometimes factory ammo is way slower, sometimes it's close, sometimes it's even faster than advertised.
The 6.8western looks good but down here in Australia we havent seen it or ammo
That's a shame
I have 3 7mm prcs that I bought on impulse and deceived by Hornady’s bs advertised speeds on their factory ammo! I will get rid of one or two to buy one in 6.8 western now that ADG brass will become available.
The only thing different should’ve been marketing. They should’ve called it a 270 express or 270 PRC.
Bergara also makes a couple 7 PRC
Good point. They make good rifles and I'm glad to see they picked up the 7mm PRC.
It would be nice to have your opinion between 300wsm and 6.8 western and 7 PRC
Good idea!
When I try to decide between
6.8 Western
or the 7 Prc.
The answer seems to be
300 Wsm.
I dont need them for their long range.
But for their ability to launch a lead free bullet fast enough for optimal expansion for 350-isch meters/yards.
Living in sweden
6.8 western is not available yet
And good .277 bullets are harder to find.
7prc is better but not by much.
The 300wsm has factory rifles (Tikka and Sako).
Feeds on 308 bullets and as of 2024 has Lapua Brass 😃.
If the EU would ban lead like they are threatening to do.
Rifles with slow and heavy bullets will be much less appealing.
I hope that the Prc:s and the Western gets recognition for their merits over here to.
Cheers from Sweden 🇸🇪 🍻
So tired of seeing trusted sources quoting Hornady's bogus velocity numbers. 6.8 beats 7prc in with actual velocties
As I've said multiple times in response to similar comments on this video, I'm personally getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELD-X bullets. I also shot some Federal Terminal Ascent ammo earlier this year and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar. Maybe I just have a "fast barrel"? I cannot comment on the results other people are obtaining one way or another. However, the results I'm seeing with my own eyes make me inclined to believe that ~3,000fps out of a 24" barrel (which is what Hornady advertises their velocities with) is reasonable.
Seekins PH2 in 6.8 western
👍👍👍👍👍👍
Thanks!
Which is good for turkey
I'm hearing the hornady rds are 200 fps slower than what they say, and 6.8 is right on or a little more than they say .
More details on actual velocities I've measured for each one here: th-cam.com/video/HFym2F-p6kc/w-d-xo.html and here: th-cam.com/video/4z28TJTQ-Rg/w-d-xo.html
Peterson brass 7prc 1.60$ a piece if you buy bulk
27 nosler 2.85 $ a piece for bulk
My point is whether through conditioning of the term PRC or marketing or Hornady dumping money into the brass manufacturers…nobody makes any brass for 6.8 western except Winchester and their brass… well, let’s put it this way. Any of the brass I’ve had is less than stellar easily blown out the primers due to inferior metallurgy.
Winchester needs to get their act together if they want to survive any of these cartridge wars. The reason why seven PRC has taken off is due to PRC competition. Competitors actually using it for competition hence buying lots more brass making the price go down… Or maybe even Hornady giving money to brass manufacturer for the development of the brass???
I’m currently building a gun around the 7mm prc. Thought about the 6.8 western but I think it’s going to die sadly. I’ll give hornady one thing, they know how to release a cartridge. Others should take notes.
I'm not sure the 6.8 Western will die, but I think you're right about Hornady's marketing. I'll never bet against the Hornady marketing team!
For those who build rifles or hand-load, the 6.8W will always be a great option.
I would probably do the 6.8 because it is cheaper to shoot, yes?
Probably pretty similar in cost for ammo
I’m finding the about prices are very similar.
The 7prc is NOT ‘a lot more powerful’ than the 6.8. It’s slightly more but no game animal will know the difference. The 7 velocities are exaggerated by Hornady. I have not seen anyone getting 3000 fps from a 24” barrel.
As companies come out with 7 REM Mag rifles with faster twist rates, like tikka and browning, I believe that may give the PRC a good fight. The 7 RM with an 8 twist leaves nothing on the table to the PRC.
We have a comparison where one cartridge shoots a bullet has 10-20% more muzzle energy, 15-34% more retained energy at 500 yards, is up to 13gr heavier, and has 5% greater frontal surface area than the other one. For what it's worth, a 180gr 300 WM Core Lokt load has about 20% more muzzle energy than a 180gr 30-06 Core Lokt load. You can say that's "a little" or "slightly" more powerful if you'd like, but I'd respectfully disagree, especially when we're talking about a bullet that's both heavier and slightly larger in diameter with the 7mm PRC vs 6.8 Western as well. A gigantic difference? No. Will both kill animals cleanly most of the time? Yes, but I can certainly envision some circumstances where the 7mm PRC would be beneficial.
With regards to velocity,I 'm personally getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELD-X bullets. I just got some Federal Terminal Ascent ammo the other day and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar. I cannot speak to the results others are obtaining and maybe I just have a "fast barrel", but the results I'm seeing with my own eyes make me inclined to believe that ~3,000fps out of a 24" barrel (which is what Hornady advertises their velocities with) is reasonable.
John, thanks for replying. I really enjoy your channel. I’m going to maintain my position on “slightly more powerful “. Both are capable of dropping elk in their tracts at 400 yards (personal max for hunting) but neither is guaranteed to do so. PRC has an edge for long range shooters.
It’s nice to hear that you are getting those numbers in your PRC. In my 7 RM Tikka Terminal Ascent factory ammo gets 3100 fps. That’s 100 over the box speed! In hand loads I get more than that with Reloadet 26. Keep putting out good videos!
Fair enough sir. Glad you're enjoying the channel and take care!
Not fair, 270 WSM or 7MM WSM. Short magnun to a Std lengh Action cartridge like the 7PRC
The difference between the two is largely academic and only really makes a difference when you own no rifle and have the paper comparisons between the two. And the wrong barrel twist rate can sink either cartridges potential.
😅Neither of these is enough better than the 7mm Remington Magnum to entice me.
I don't understand the high BC hunting bullet craze. More recoil, often for less performance out to 400 yards...
Less performance out to 400 yards? The 2 7mm PRC loads here are the flattest shooting out of the 5. The 175gr ELD-X (which has the highest BC) has the most energy at all ranges and the 160gr CX has more energy than 2 out of 3 of the 6.8 Western loads at all ranges, finally passing the 165gr ABLR at 400 yards. That 175gr ELD-X also has the best performance in the wind at all ranges. It's fine if you don't think the juice is worth the squeeze (and you're right about the 7 PRC having more recoil), but let's not downplay the strengths of the cartridge either.
@Thebiggamehuntingblog I have a 7 PRC and load for it. I was referring to loading the heavy bullets versus light bullets in the same caliber.
Using Hornady data, dropping to a 139 CX at 3300 fps yields 1.3 MOA less drop at 400 versus the 175 ELDx at 2850. For that you pick up .3 MOA more drift in a full value 10 mph crosswind. I'll make that trade. Now when you go beyond 800 yards; give me the highest BC bullet that I can push over 2800 fps(nothing scientific, just a number I run with).
I'm early in my 7 PRC testing, but I have bullets on hand ranging from 140 partitions to 180 ELDm. So far I have only loaded 160 copper factory seconds and 180 ELDm in once fired Hornaday brass. It is a fun cartridge to work with.
Ah, well you're definitely right about the light vs heavy for caliber deal. And you're right that really high BC bullets aren't nearly as important at close range as they are at extended range. The big advantage of them that's not talked about as often is their better performance in the wind. You get those benefits at all ranges, but once again, it's less of an advantage up close.
@Thebiggamehuntingblog Exactly, I just did a poor job of explaining my point in the first post. Effective communicator, I am not...lol.
BTW, I'm that nutty guy that loads .308 and 30-06 with 130 grain ttsx for whitetails here in the East. They have been very effective for my friends and I. I do load 125 grain Nosler ABs for the same purpose. They make deer dead with noticeably less recoil than 180s.
so much going for the western but so little support and rifles for someone to own and use massive failures dragging it back
The 6.8 is the better cartridge
Has anybody actually chrono'd a factory 7PRC @ 3000fps? If so, what are the parameters?
Numerous other channels have clocked the factory ammo at 2850-2875 w/24" barrels. I appreciated the content, but you need to do the legwork and not just regurgitate what is written on a box when making these comparisons.
As I've said multiple times in response to similar comments on this video, I've personally measured velocities very close to 2950 with both the 160gr CX and 175gr ELD-X Hornady factory loads. I also shot some Federal Terminal Ascent ammo earlier this year and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar. The results I'm seeing with my own eyes (not just regurgitating what's on the box or what guys are posting on TH-cam) make me inclined to believe that ~3,000fps out of a 24" barrel (which is what Hornady advertises their velocities with) is reasonable. That said, I'm aware of the velocity complaints from others that you're referencing. I have a hypothesis regarding what's going on and I'm heading back to the range soon to do another video on that subject.
Should of just necked down the 300prc ti make 7prc. That would actually make it stand out. As it stands its blah meh at best
Why the 28 nosler already exists. The 7 prc has all it needs without tons of recoil. It's right where it should be. If you want short barrel life and more recoil just buy a 28 nosler.
It almost seems like the ammo manufacturers have a sort of fear or racism against this cartridge. I bought one when it was first released (X Bolt Speed) and cannot say more positive things about it. I've taken several deer with it now, in all conditions at varying distances and elevations. One shot one kill with very little meat damage. It's now become my primary rifle. I've used 6.5 crdmr, 308, 30-06, 7 rem mag etc. I love this cartridge. But finding good ammo for it is getting frustrating. I've been told we are still "post pandemic" by some and some just simply shrug their shoulders. Does anyone have any insight on this ?? Will it just die with no real answers? Are the manufacterers intentionally keeping this good guy down?
I've heard a lot of silly things, but referring to the lack of support for the 6.8 Western by ammo companies as "racism" is one of the weirder comments I've heard lately...
I didnt mean it literally. More like they are just ignoring the "new kid in town"@@Thebiggamehuntingblog
Id love a 6.8. Very cool caliber. Can’t do it though. I don’t need a rifle that becomes a boat anchor late on. If Winchester abandons it, it’s dead in the water. Everyone that bought one will be up chits creek. Personally though. Truthfully. Id like to see more people advocating for more emphasis on getting closer and HUNTING. Why are we turning hunting into a bench shoot? Who REALLY has the skill to consistently and accurately make 500-1000 yard shots? I don’t wanna hear this bologna that you can’t get closer either. Archery hunters do.
1. Stop comparing quality hunting bullets to target bullet designs, and then claiming the target bullets performance is even close to bonded bullets in hunting scenarios.
2. The PRC family of cartridges is truly a great design improvement for both accuracy and efficiency.
The 6.8 Western also incorporates most all of the same modern cartridge designs.
3. Hornady has become famous now, for over claiming and over selling their new products.
There are dozens of videos online, exposing the short comings of the factory ammunition for the 7 PRC, yet so many people are still making comparisons using ADVERTISED DATA for the 7 PRC, Rather than true results.
- Lower than claimed velocities
- Evidence of excessive pressure in factory rifles using Hornady factory ammunition.
If you're going to do a comparison of the 7 PRC and the 6.8 Western,
Use the same bullet family.
I.E. .277 Cal 165 ABLR compared to the .284 Cal 168 ABLR, and possibly the 175 ABLR.
THESE would be fair comparisons.
Many hunters do not care for the ELD-X performance on big game.
Your comment makes me inclined to believe that you didn't actually watch the video because I addressed every single one of those points you made (except for velocity).
With regards to velocity, I cannot speak to the results others are obtaining. However, I'm personally getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELD-X bullets. I just got some Federal Terminal Ascent ammo the other day and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar. Maybe I just have a "fast barrel", but the results I'm seeing with my own eyes make me inclined to believe that ~3,000fps out of a 24" barrel (which is what Hornady advertises their velocities with) is reasonable.
My suggestion to you would be to actually watch the video and pay close attention to what I actually say, especially about bullet selection and bullet performance, modern cartridge design, and why I chose the bullets I did for this comparison.
Eldx sure kills alot of animals to not be a game bullet
You should talk about the 7PRC lie! 3000fps... no way! Reduce the actual fps and things change?😮
I'm personally getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELD-X bullets. I just got some Federal Terminal Ascent ammo the other day and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar. Maybe I just have a "fast barrel", but the results I'm seeing with my own eyes make me inclined to believe that ~3,000fps out of a 24" barrel (which is what Hornady advertises their velocities with) is reasonable.
@Thebiggamehuntingblog That's amazing! But everyone else seems to report much slower 7 PRC velocities. Your getting 2953fps out of a 22 inch barrel is the first I've seen. One long-range channel says their 7 PRC loads are closer to 2800! They were making the case as to why the 28 Nosler blows the 7 PRC out of the water. That the PRC speeds have been inflated. I'm not a hunting sniper and am searching for a new do lots rifle. I'm torn between 6.5 Creed, 6.5 PRC, 6.8 Western, 7PRC and 28 Nosler. I shoot 300RUM and 375 Ruger- my own builds. I'm looking for more of a go-to gun. I May build a Tikka 7 PRC? Or not. Christensen Arms offers all the above cartridges I'm contemplating in their Ridgeline FFT. Looks like a perfect compromise. But why do I see so many Ridgeline problems on TH-cam? Enough to push me away! Still, the FFT remains a possibility for me because it checks most of my hunting rifle needs. I just do not want to purchase a $2,000+ problem! (Extraction, headspace, case ejection, rough chambers, which
need break-in! On a $2K rifle, supposedly hand lapped?) Since you own an FFT, have you experienced any problems? I'm favoring an FFT in 6.8 Western with 20 inch barrel. Heck, even one in 28 Nosler has my attention! The FFT is being compared to Springfield 2020 Waypoint 6.5 CM, which blows me away every time I hold it in the store! So many seem to say the CM is good on elk, deer, black bear at least to 400 yards. Which really is a long ways!
. Thanks.
@@Thebiggamehuntingblog I've seen over a dozen videos of guys shooting 7PRC with 24-26" barrels averaging about 100 fps slower than advertised. Seems to be a very common trend and a lot of the community is pretty pieved about it.
It's hard to argue that they aren't blowing up their numbers when its happening to so many people.
Precision Rifle Cartridge essentially means “modern magnum”. Magnum bolt face (.535” +/-), magnum case capacity, magnum primers, and magnum muzzle velocities (plus recoil). There is nothing wrong with this, but it’s interesting that Hornady wanted to introduce a new label for these new cartridges. They’ve slapped “Creedmoor” on a few that have been very successful, but the PRC cartridges lean toward hunting. IOW the “PRC” label is all about marketing.
Hornady is very good at marketing and has become the 900 pound gorilla in the field of new cartridge development. I can quickly find 4 brands of 7mm PRC brass. I didn’t find any 6.8 Western brass at my top 3 supply houses. While I have seen 6.8 Western factory ammo at least once in a store, 7mm PRC is in stock. And then there are rifles. Winchester is making some rifles chambered in 6.8 Western; however, 7mm PRC rifles are starting to show up already. If you can’t find ammo, reloading components, or rifles for cartridge X, it’s going the way of the dodo bird.
Bottom line: all of this analysis is great, but the 7mm PRC is here to stay.
Stop saying the 300 prc requires a magnum length action. It shows how ignorant you are. It requires a long action the same as the 30-60 and 300 win mag, 300 rum. Not a magnum length like the 375 h&h, 416 rem mag, 458 Lott, 460 nitro.
No, your comment shows how ignorant you are sir. Look at the actual SAAMI specs and you'll see the 300 PRC has a maximum overall length of 3.7". This is actually even LONGER than the 3.6" maximum overall length of the 375 H&H Magnum and is significantly bigger than the 3.34" maximum overall length of the 30-06 (and it's the 30-06, NOT the 30-60 like you mentioned in your comment). Furthermore, the 300 RUM has a 3.6" maximum overall length and ALSO requires a magnum length rifle action and will NOT fit in a "long action" rifle. There's also no cartridge named the "460 Nitro" either.
300 RUM uses a magnum action length same as the 300 prc. 3.7”
This comparison is pointless, as the 7mm doesn’t deliver the listed velocities. I don’t know about the 6.8.
Huh? I'm personally getting very close to 2950 with Hornady factory loads: 2945 with the 160gr CX bullets and 2953 with 175gr ELDX bullets. I just got some Terminal Ascent ammo the other day and I was getting 2,980fps with the 170gr Terminal Ascent bullet (advertised velocity of 2,950fps). All out of a CA Ridgeline FFT with a 22" barrel and all verified with a Lab Radar. I wouldn't be surprised to see velocities up around 3,000fps for that Hornady stuff out of a 24" barrel (which is what Hornady uses in their testing).
My 6.8 Western is getting very close to the box listing. They are not as fast due to my shorter barrel length compared to the 24” length they use for testing and listing
It’s amazing how many fools watch the same 1 or 2 youtube videos claiming low velocity of factory ammo and regurgitate it on every 7 prc video like it’s gospel. There must be at least 10 prior comments saying the exact same nonsense.