I’m in my early 20s and finally getting into big game hunting. I picked up a Weatherby Vangaurd in 300 win mag and a lot of my decisions and recent knowledge have come from things I’ve learned watching this channel. Thanks Ron!
Congrats! You actually have a rebadged Howa 1500! Probably the best budget bolt action there is! I have a Mueller 8-32 target master, 20 moa one piece scope base, a knox axiom stock- suspension locked up-, and a howitzer style muzzle break on mine. I can run 60rds through it, no shoulder pain what so ever.
Should of got the 300 Weatherby if it's just for big game but if target or long range shooting u made the right decision 300 wm bullets ain't cheap but they not Weatherby high
Thanks Ron for all you do! I hunt with both the 300 win Mag and the 300 WSM. Both have performed well with loads that I have worked up. Nearing 60 years of age I wish I could hunt for another 60!
Guys I have both , never had a feeding with the 300wsm. I have been running it for years and love it so much , I gave my custom Remington in 300WM to my son.
Being 74 years old, I inherited a Springfield 03 in the 30-06 from my Dad and took my first Deer in Utah when I was 12 years old. That rifle became very important to me after my Dad passed away , I had taken Russian Boars and a lot of deer with that gun. I was going Elk hunting and Colorado and bought the Remington 700 in the 300WSM and reloaded 180 gr MRX Barns bullets. I got my Elk but passed up a monster that was 340 yards away with only a head shot available. When I returned I picked up a used 340 Weatherby and put a Vortex scope on it: I reloaded 250gr MRX bullets with the Reloader 33 powder. A few months later I had a cardiac arrest and upon recovery I had lost quite a bit of memory. That was back in 2018 Christmas and feel like I’ve recovered quite a bit. I should be getting my drivers license back soon. Both of my Sons spend a lot of time in Alaska working about the Brooks Range on oil rigs. One as a Directional Driller and the other as an Electrician. My oldest child is a girl who has a Masters Degree in Civil Engineering and works for the State of Virginia expanding an Interstate Highway. I hope someday to have Grandchildren but none of them are married yet.Thank you for taking the time to read this and God Bless.
I get 3008 fps from a 180 grain Trophy Bonded Tipped over H4350 from a 22 3/4" barreled 300 wsm. It's a lightweight, fairly compact rifle....a real pleasure to carry and shoots sub moa.
@@jcarry5214 I get crazy speed with it. I have some H4350 but never tried working up good loads due to the slow speeds. Accuracy with my re17 is about 1” but I’ve had loads that are under 1” with it. Maybe I’ll give the 4350 another go.
@@wesleyturner1979 -I did try RL17...nearly 3100 fps before pressure signs appeared...however poor accuracy in my particular rifle (rem 700 ss). RL19 also gave good velocity/accuracy.
I absolutely love the 300wsm. The big difference I see is ammo availability. Where many shops routinely stock the 300 win mag the wsm is typically more challenging to find. As for the other wsm cartridges, the 325wsm is another I have come to enjoy but ammo is all but impossible to find and when you do find some it's expensive
I now hunt with a 243 more than any other caliber and it's probably my favorite caliber. That being said, I did at one time own a 300 win mag and had a 200 acre hunting club in Alabama. I had deer, 3 bucks and unlimited does each year, hogs, you name it. I have to say that there was never a tracking job with that cartridge. It was exciting knowing that if I could get my cross hair on an animal, it was game over lol. I would walk straight to it. I really have no idea why I haven't bought another one. Especially since I'm blessed to hunt behind my house now. You know what? I believe I will. 😏👍
Another great video Mr. Spomer, thank you. Another thing about the WSM that pertains to we reloaders is that steep shoulder. Make sure and use enough case lube when resizing as that steep shoulder can be pushed back a bit easier than some others if you're a little short on case lube. But then the classic belted mag brings its own little set of idiosyncrasies to the reloading bench as well. Thanks Ron and good luck in the upcoming season!
The key factor in the decision to choose a 300WSM vs a 300WM should be ammo source. If you are a reloader and you like a short action go with 300WSM, if you depend on factory ammo go with 300WM. Also, if you wish to run very heavy bullets like 200gr+ go with the 300WM. Many 300WSM’s are chambered with 1:11 twist (Sako & Tikka) while most 300WM’s are chambered with 1:10 twist… which is part of the reason why 300WM accommodates the longer heavier bullets better.
Ron I have both and in the field there is no difference. The main difference is what you mentioned in the rifle. I have an A Bolt 11 Stainless Stalker in 300WSM. It's a shorter and lighter rifle with a 23" barrel. I have a Winchester Model 70 Extreme Weather in 300 Win Mag which has a 26" barrel. Both handle very differently and the A Bolt 11 is the lighter rifle. Both are great and nearly every rifle manufacturer puts out the 300WSM. In a bolt action it's just different strokes with these two equally great calibres (pardon the pun). Thanks for sharing!
The WSM is said to burn its powder faster in a shorter barrel,where as the older long column of powder require a longer barrel to produce best velocities.
@@davidwatkins767 Not true. It has to do with a wider diameter allowing for faster burn plus the angle of the shoulder. The WSM typically has a lower recoil than the WM.
It comes down to picking the correct burn rate to tailor for your case dimensions and your barrel length. The longer magnums will make more velocity (more powder does equal more speed) but you need more barrel length than most hunters want to carry to take advantage of it.
@@IceColdMilk69 I've shot 4 moose with it- recovered 1 bullet on the offside hide. Everything else exited. I've shot 2 fairly large black bears and a lot of caribou.
@@IceColdMilk69 I’m not running a 300WSM but a 30-06 and my 165 gr Accubonds have taken 5 elk, 1 black bear, 6 whitetail, and 2 mule deer. A 180 going a bit faster will only be better than my 30-06.
It always baffles me that so many cartridges have been developed and marketed and continue to be produced. The 300 WSM/RSAUM/RCM/Win. Mag./PRC/Wby. Mag all existing at the same time is amazing. I just can’t see that there is enough difference between them to justify it but it is fun to have options
Now Weatherby AND Nosler have their own cartridges, the .300 Win Mag’s ammo cost and availability are HUGE factor. And it’s the reason I’ll always choose it as THE magnum .30 cartridge. It’s the clear winner when taking the actual ammo in to consideration. Affording and finding it matters a whole lot, sure there’s bandleaders who don’t care. But the majority of hunters buy their ammo, with that being said it makes the .300 Win Mag the superior choice.
Ron, I’m glad you mentioned the 300 PRC. It’s funny how we’ve made a full circle back to the magnum action of the 300 H&H. Because I reload, I love the efficiency (which I define as ft/sec per grain of powder) of the 300 H&H and 300 WSM. The 300 Win Mag is my least favorite of the 300 magnums, but it’s still a classic.
i usely hit what i aim for under 120 m. 300 h&h the action do not need a second shoot,do no not what the fuss is about,if you want a second shoot buy a good under&over they are good fun in 308
Great Video with some good information.... I picked up a winchester model 70 in the 300 wsm. With the 24 inch barrel. I'm shooting a 150 grain bullet. Very happy with the Gun and caliber... Thanks
I’ve been sold on the 300WSM for over 15 years now. I just started LR shooting and bought a Savage 110 Elite Precision in 308Win. It never had the 1st 308Win round through it before being rechambered for 300WSM... With my current reloads, it’s shooting “bugholes” at 200yds while I’m working up loads for 1500 (and longer) yards...!!!
I have the 300wsm from the Remington 700 platform. It's a fantastic gun. I'm not the tallest guy in the world so the short action does me well. The gun is accurate and VERY powerful. Throwing an 180gr bullet at almost 3000fps is insane.
300WSM is by far my favourite caliber. It is extremely versatile. You can get it to provide near belted magnum velocity with less recoil than you might think... I load 168gr Barnes TTSX bullets to 3000fps muzzle velocity with a very modest charge of H4350. That is 126fps below published maximum. By going with a lighter bullet and keeping the velocity well below maximum in a short action rifle you get the sensation that you are shooting a 30/06 or even a .308 not a magnum because the recoil is rather tame. In a quality rifle this cartridge is also very accurate and not too picky with charge weights and powder choice. with this 300WSM load energy doesn't drop below 1500ft-lb until 550yds. vs 450yds for a 30/06 and 350yds for a .308. pushing the same bullet. I have shot 30/06 loads that kick like a mule compared to my 300WSM. Give it a try... 300WSM is all you will ever need for North American game.
Tbh, same. I never noticed the recoil until I'm bench shooting with it. But when I'm out and about hunting with it (i.e. shooting free hand, branch, trigger stick), there is no recoil noticeable. Though, having 3 layers of clothing will help, along with a cheek rest on the stock of the rifle.
Ya man! I have a tikka t3x stainless in 300 wsm. Very accurate but it kicked pretty good so I got my gunsmith to put his custom brake on it and now it feels less than a 30-06 with a limbsaver pad
@@Kmecha84 Great idea!... I recently put many rounds down mine practicing long range shooting and yes... it sure boots more than my 308 with a brake... I can handle recoil and make the practice hits on targets out to 600m but... the follow through and spotting hits is nearly impossible. Im gonna do the same as you and put a brake on it... not for the first shot... but for the follow through! Being able to keep your eyes on the prey after taking the shot is pretty important for maximizing your chances for successful recovery!
@@briant7652 I have not had any chambering or headspace issues whatsoever. I use RCBS full length sizing die and im getting .003 shoulder bump. The rifle is a Sako A7.
Yes they are pretty evenly matched. The short magnum is a bit more fuel efficient. I am very happy with my old .300 Win. Mag. I have been using it for a long time.
Yes indeed. Looking at Winchesters offerings in model 70 for these chamberings, the old Win Mag comes with 2" more barrel length than the WSM in the same model. So there is actually a point the WSM has over the old mag if the buyer is looking for a bit lighter weight rifle
As I understand it, the WSM must have a minimum of a 24 inch barrel, in order to achieve the same velocities as the WinMag. I remember reading that in the literature when the 300 WSM first came out.
I have a 300 WSM and love it ! Ballistic twin to the 300 WinMag just like Ron said. I have the 325 WSM also and not sure why it didn't catch on since it is a in a sense a 8mm Mauser short.
As a gunsmith and hunting guide/long range shooter and reloader I’ll say “Yes” Both are amazing! But the 300 mag wins. The wsm case expands sometimes to the point where the bolt gets stuck closed! We’ve had to use a rubber mallet many many times on the workbench. 300 WM I can’t remember ever having to do that.
It's not that the primer is "closer to the center of the column", in fact, the primer of the longer case covers more center area of the case head. The efficiency of the WSM lies in a wider powder column where more powder burns sooner and more uniformly. A "24 barrel ensures all the powder is completely burned, albeit with less powder in the case. Love my Tikka T3 300 WSM. Great show Ron!
Feeding issues... yes I had this when hunting. When cycling in a hurry that second cartridge doesn't slide effortlessly into the chamber. For my gun, it is best to keep calm and cycle without haste. My receiver is M700 from Christensen Arms Classic. Great shooter by the way! It loves the Accubond LR 190g.
I wanted to say thanks much. I have always considered these two as half a dozen of one, 6 of the other. Even one thing you didn't talk about was weapon weight isn't that much. I personally use the 300 WM on Elk and other large game in the same class.
Love my 300wsm. Went with it after using an 06 for years. No problem one shotting moose and elk out to 500. Got a spike bull moose last week one shot at 375. It has the oomfe to drop then cold.
It's like buying a new truck. Chevy, GMC, Ford, Ram, Toyota etc...Most people have a favorite. Is a red truck better than a blue truck? My guess is, only if you like red better than blue. LOL The difference between some of these cartridges are small. If you're going elk hunting and you want a new rifle...decide what barrel length your willing to haul around. 30 Nosler, 300 Wby Mag, 300 RUM, 300 PRC, 300 WM, 300 WSM etc...they'll all probably do what you need to do. I have friends that are capable of making longer shots than I can. That's ok though. I do my best to stay within my own ability, and shoot the rifle and cartridge I like, or can afford. I have a 300WSM, so there's no need to go buy a new rifle...unless I just want a new one. lol Great video Ron. Thanks.
All I can really say, these two cartridges are so alike ballistically. The only differences are case length and diameter, and magazine capacity. You could get a slightly shorter rifle with the WSM, but not my much. If there is any real advantage, long heavier bullets won't impede on the available powder space as much on the 300 Win Mag as opposed to the WSM.
Good comparison been shooting my 06 for 20 years but did pick up a 300WSM 4 years ago. Have to say from a reloading point of view pretty close. Have killed deer and elk with both calibers and results were meat in the freezer!
I’ve got a 270WSM in the Remington 700 and I’ve started to do my best to improve it. I’ve bought a new carbon barrel and a new stock. I’ve always loved the way it shoots and I’m hoping to make it just that much better.
I run a 270wsm also. Like the extra velocity over the regular 270 for use with monolithic bullets on big game. Recoil seems on par with a 30-06 more so than a true magnum, which I like. I’ve never shot an animal beyond about 325 yards.
@@phild9813 I find that the recoil is solid, but less sharp than my S&W 1500 (Howa 1500) 30/06. Which probably means the velocity of the recoil is a bit less. It’s a pleasure to shoot. My 325 WSM on the other hand is great, but after a 5 shot group you know you’ve done something.
the biggest difference is when you get up in bullet size. the larger bullets may shoot better in the 300 win mag because there is more room for powder when seating the bullet. you can work arround that sometimes with the WSM but your ammo may not fit in the mag anymore.
I bought the .270 wsm back in 2001 and I love it except for the cost of ammo but I hand load for mine and the brass is getting pretty hard to find. Still great cartridges in my opinion
Thank you, you're videos continue to please, educate & provoke thought. I've used my .338 for decades - walrus, Brown bear, Grizzly, deer, caribou, etc. Also hunt in Europe, but decide not to travel with the .338 there. In Europe, I've used .300 Win mag & .300 RUM rifles on a variety of creatures. The two .300's worked very well. BTY, I really enjoyed the way the .300 RUM performed. It got my attention! However, as much as I enjoyed those calibers in my European hunts, I'm still stuck on my .338 Win mag. Of course, I'm used to it (comfort level), and I find no need to replace it. You do so well detailing caliber differences. Thank you. And, please keep it up the good work. But, we study, we shoot & we clobber creatures. And we find that small, subtle differences don't really count in order to reduce a creature to ambient temperature.
When comparing the long actions to short actions everyone mentions the shorter bolt throw. I’ve never considered that quicker bolt throw important at most ranges that we use a bolt gun. The main reason I like a short action is when mounting my scopes I have quite a bit more room within my rings for eye relief. Rarely does that get mentioned.
Good point, but the rings issue can usually be addressed with extended rings (rarely needed on standard length actions, but often on true magnums) or different scope lengths. Of course, if you have/love a short scope and insist on it, a short-action should more easily accommodate.
I chose the 300 WSM, because supposedly, it would be kinder on my surgically repaired shoulder, as far as recoil goes. Still havent fired it yet, so that remains to be seen. Cant wait to send some rounds down range though!
Great video as always Ron. You could never go wrong with either cartridge. 300 WSM set a new 1000 yard world record recently. 10 shot 10x group measuring 2.64” . The topic of frontal ignition always gets my mind thinking until I remember the pain it would be to remove primers . I’m a huge fan of the WSM family of cartridges, the world needs for the 6.5 WSM to be commercialized and the 25 WSSM to be done rite as the 25 WSM .
The 25WSM is a mirror of the older tried and true 25/06 Remington. It has no ballistic advantage over the older longer cases 25 .Buying one is just for bragging but theres nothing to brag about. 257 WEATHERBY AND 25/06 REM ARE STILL ON TOP.
👍🇺🇸 I just built a 300 WSM in LR308 platform with a 26.5" barrel. Magnum gas and adjustable gas block. The 300WSM with a few fluted inches makes a difference. And I use a 308 magazine. 👍💪😉
300 WSM is a TAD slower, but more inherently accurate. The 300 wsm can also be used on an ar10 lower. KAK industries sells a 300 WSM upper for about a thousand bucks. Expensive, but worth it. I built an ar10 upper in 300 WSM for a tad less and I love it.
Hey Ron I been watching for a while now and I can’t believe the wealth of knowledge on this channel!! This is my favorite channel on TH-cam and when I get on and see you have posted a new video I actually get excited to set down and watch it. Great content love the channel thanks for doing what you do
Another great video Ron. One thing I think you didn't mention. The short actions are supposed "stiffer" than the long actions and flex less during discharge making them more accurate. Maybe that matters on a bench but I can't see it making any significant difference for hunting. Your point was well made that for practical hunting these calibers are identical. Please keep your videos coming.
I personally think my 300WSM Tikka kicks less than my son's weatherby 300WM. I prefer the short action. We were both shooting 165 grains. Never had a feeding issue with the T3 or T3X super lite.
I already owned my Browning BPR in 300WM when the 300SWM came out. Plus the fact the earlier ones were made in Belgium just put me to far in to make a change.....🤠 I the words of another famous Utuber.... Is it enough of a difference to make a difference? You be the judge. Nice piece Ron....🤠
This is really a very informative piece Ron. Thank you. I guess, for me I like the idea of getting rid of that problematic belt. The darn thing is so prone to case head separation that it's just not something I want to deal with. It was needed at the time the cartridge debuted but chamber design has changed for the better. I still like it but I like the WSM a lot more.
Only thing I would add is accuracy. My experience with both, I can say the the 300 wsm shoots factory ammo very well, all of it. Never owned one, but my brother owned two, usually I'm asked to sight in the rifles in camp. I was impressed the 300 wsm.tight groups with anything I shot through it. I've shot alot of 300 win mags and can't say that.The guys who own and get the best accuracy are reloaders who worked loads
The wind deflection at 300 is reversed, though it's irrelevant to practical hunting. And the real difference in newer cartridges is not the cartridge, it's the higher twist rate built into newer rifles. Much ado about not so much at the end of the day.
I agree - it makes no sense that the slower bullet (from the WSM) would have less wind deflection since it takes longer to get to 300 yards than than Win Mag and therefore the wind has more time to act on it.
I think cartridge choice here for non-reloaders is heavily dependent on available commercial loadings and projected market longevity. If the round is currently a hot ticket but only a flash in the pan over the long run, the non-reloader is going to be stuck with a rifle that has limited ammo availability and variety, greatly limiting what they can do with such versatile rifles.
Thanks for an informative video. My own, neophyte $0.02 on the difference between Win Mag and Short Mag is that someone probably wanted to make a cartridge that would fit Magnum performance into a short action, such as the short action Remington 700 and similar rifles.
The WSM's were brilliant marketing at the time. Yes the short action is lighter in general, but I've handled long or standard actions that were just as light and or within a couple ounces. One thing to keep in mind is some of the short mags don't feed so smoothly, not all but I have run across a few. I have not loaded for the .300 WSM, but have considerable experience loading and shooting the .325 WSM, .300 H&H, .300 Win mag, .300 Weatherby and a Wildcat called a .300 Cloward Super magnum based on the H&H case. And I have worked with the .300 Remington Ultra mag a little bit. Honestly, they will all work and work well. I'd be more concerned about the rifle and how it fits you for you're purposes than which cartridge name is stamped on the barrel. Having owned several, I don't want anything "lightweight " chambered in any of these, been there, done that, I'm good. In closing I will say that I have no problem getting over 3,100 fps with 180 grain Partitions in my own .300 Win mag (custome rifle, 26 inch barrel), haven't messed with anything heavier because nothing has stood up to it. If I need more I have bigger rifles to choose from. Though I have been a long range shooter for years, I am not a long range hunter, and 400 yards is no problem for my boringly reliable. 30-06. Nice video Ron, keep it up.
@@georgewhitworth9742 HI Bradley, it's a Wildcat based off of the old belted H&H case. Think of it as a .300 Weatherby improved with no body taper, shorter neck, sharper shoulders moved forward with no freebore. I have gotten over 3,400 fps with 180 grain Partitions, accurately, but it's kind of too much of a good thing, and I am not a long range hunter. So I load 180's at 3,210 and 200's at 3,124. That should do anything you'd want a .30 cal. rifle to do. At the end of the day though, it's real hard to beat the old .300 Winchester Magnum. Especially if you consider ammo and loading components availability. In a pinch, with dies and a little work you can make a lot of different cases from other popular calibers based on the belted case. I have had to do this for the .350 Remington Magnum and the .308 Norma magnum, both easily made from 7mm Rem mag brass. Anyway, pick what you like and use it, what we shoot isn't near as important as how we shoot. Oh, almost forgot, on the Super mag, you can fire .300 Weatherby ammo in it, and the cases come out fire formed to the chamber. So in a pinch, if you loose your ammo, you can shoot factory. 300 Weatherby in it, if you can find it. 🙄. Personally my favorite is the .300 H&H, go figure. 🙂
@@larrybassett5559 Haha nice! I'm sorta keeping an eye out for rare or unusual chamberings to try out, and see if I can reload for. Thats partially what brought me to my own .300 H&H actually! I wanted a pretty good moose gun for up here in Alaska, but wanted something a little more special then a .300 Win Mag, haha. Actually hoping to find a rifle or a company that can custom make a rifle in the .275 H&H, so I can have a .270ish chambering, haha Are there any rifler makers/currently available rifles in the .300 Cloward per chance?
@@georgewhitworth9742 unfortunately he is retired, and I have never seen another on Gunbroker. I have seen a few mentions of it on the campfire but it's not terribly popular. .300 Weatherby would be easier and close in ballistics. For all around use and availability I'd stick with the old .300 Win mag.
A good comparison and you really can’t go wrong with either one of those two. My Dad has had a Winchester M70 in .300 Win Mag and has shot multiple whitetail 350 yards and in. Not many places in WV and PA that you can shoot further. Usually under 100. Two years ago before we went out to Idaho for a mule deer hunt I was looking into getting a .30 caliber to compliment my .270 Win. I have been looking at the .300 WSM in a Tikka T3X for years when I use to work at Cabela’s. But I was open to anything from the .308 up to the .300 Weatherby and Rem Ultra Mags, even a 338 Win (thinking about elk). When I found a new Savage M110 Long Range Hunter in .300 WSM for $565 down from $900 I jumped on it. Even though it is 8.4 lbs naked vs 6.5 in the Tikka. It shoots the 180-200 grain class rather well whether it be the Hornady GMX or ELD-X or Berger Hybrid Hunters, I need to reload some 180 Nosler Accubonds too.
Id say that 6.5lb’er would be brutal. Thats crazy light for a big magnum. Which when hunting, you probably wouldnt notice but you sure would at the bench.
You really don’t want a magnum rifle that weighs less than 8 1/2 pounds. John, is absolutely right. You would end up not practicing enough, and not becoming proficient with the rifle. My Tikka magnums are in GRS stocks to add some weight.
@@John_Redcorn_ yes I would agree especially since it didn’t come with a muzzle brake or a threaded muzzle to put one on to reduce recoil. Which would be as you mentioned beneficial at the bench. Whether one reloads or is trying multiple factory options to find the best one for their rifle.
@@falba1492 yes I would have to agree. I know some people with a Tikka in the 300 WSM or WM, but was never able to set up a day to try it out and see how the recoil was on a light rifle with no brake. It isn’t too bad to carry here in West Virginia but I haven’t taken it out west in the mountains yet.
@@TheWVgoodguy22 - I don’t like brakes. I already have a bit of hearing damage from years of shooting, and brakes make the problem even worse. Also, there’s noting worse at the range than being blasted by the person next to you. I prefer to use a PAST recoil pad, and even my 338 Win Mag can be shot 100 rounds no problem.
Love your videos Ron Please keep up the good work. I recently bought a M 70 Winchester chambered in 300 WSM and it is quickly becoming my favorite big game cartridge. Lots of power, flat shooting, and accurate and with felt recoil less than many 06's I've shot. This round should be enough for big game everywhere with a good bullet in the right hands. I sure hope it sticks around.
I miss my 300 H&H. It's definitely longer than the short mags, but in my pre 64 model 70, with a tapered cartridge & controlled round feed, i could chamber another round smoothly, & without risk of my round bouncing or falling out of the action while moving or chambering in awkward positions.
The 300 WSM by being a shorter case also has a little more barrel to get the pressure up as well as that shorter burn column. I am sure the shoulder has a better seal when fired as well. A few little things all at once make it a more efficient case.
Where are you shopping that WN is available? I haven't found factory loads in over a year other than corelokt 300 wsm ammo is everywhere and factory ammo is the same price or cheaper than WM.
Another good video. I have a 300 WinMag and am happy with it. I see no reason to buy a WSM. If I was starting from scratch, I would have to think hard about which one I wanted. The action length is not an issue for me. My primary hunting rifle for 26 years has been a Ruger All Weather Mark II in 30-06. I am used to the long action.
If you don't reload the 300 WSM is a far better choice even at the peak of the ammo shortage every shop I went to had tons of WSM ammo and ZERO WM ammo.
The 300 WSM and the 300 Winchester both are great cartridges, but I got my start with the 300 Weatherby magnum in the year 1989. New to hunting and have never been satisfied with the one-cartridge thing, and since two World Wars using the 30-06 came next in the arsenal of gun cartridges. Never satisfied then the 300 WSM Browning A-Bolt still not satisfied then came Tikka T3 in 300 WSM 24” barrel over the 21” barrel in the A-Bolt.
If they are using identical bullets and the WSM is slightly slower it is impossible for the wind drift to be less for the WSM. I suspect they were accidently switched. If this has already been called out I apologize. Other than that I love this channel, keep up the good work.
The WSM is phenomenal for the handloader. Reallly get to see its potential. Superb accuracy, it holds some records in 1000 yrd shooting. Just get handicapped by mag length. For long range hunting i dont mind single feeding. But if need mag length, several good 168-185 bullets that work incredibly well
@@darrengarcia4937 - I would not recommend a 300 RUM with a carbon barrel. You can easily experience over 40 ft/lbs of recoil energy with such a light rifle. With that amount of muzzle blast and recoil, I would just step up to a 338 WinMag.
Although I own both, I have been a huge fan of the WSM since it first started hitting the market. I was initially intrigued by the WSM because of efficiency. If I remember correctly seems like you are able to reduce barrel length, to a degree, without as significant velocity reduction. My go to rifle chambered in 300 WSM has a barrel length of 21”. It has turned out to be a nice mid-weight package easy to maneuver through dense brush but still packs a punch.
@@cornpopishuntersrealdaddy4690 I dont personally hand load . That being said my father in law hand loads a lot . I had him work up Nosler 100g Partition . I'll pick up some of the Ballistic Tips and try it out for sure. Thanks
Price of ammunition weight and brass availability makes a large difference too! Great video very informative! I always dinged WSM because I thought it was weaker than the WM and the PRC (precision rifle cartridge) is great for long range competition shooting!
I think I said this before on your Channel but my son had a 300 WSM and me, him and his Wife shot a many whitetail with it the year he had it , none, yes I mean none took more than two steps, not all were hit right but they fell, no runners. We took seven or eight deer that year. He sold the gun after that so I just stayed with my .270.
Another great comparison video Ron. In deciding between these two cartridges I would suggest that one also considers what type of game is to be hunted. For example, if deer, elk and black bear - then either will do. If one is adding the "big bears" to that list - and want to shoot 220 up 250 grain bullets - then the 300 Win Mag is the choice. It will be able to send those heavier bullets with enough velocity / energy to get the job done. In the 300 WSM those longer, heavier bullets protrude into the case too far - reducing the powder capacity.
I bought a Browning BLR in 300wm last year (2020) I would’ve preferred it in the 300wsm but for some reason there weren’t any available here at that particular time.
Great video. I shoot a 7 mm WSM, Model 70, good shooter. You mention feeding problems I may have a unicorn I’ve never had any issues. I believe I’ve had mine probably 15 years.? Yeah, I hand load for mune
The other thing to consider is availability of factory ammunition under normal circumstances. Most are going to be reloaders but in the unlikely event you need to buy hunting ammunition what are the local stores going to most likely have available. In my elk camp this year all but one has 300WM. I do think there is a great case to be made for the 300WSM.
@@vitaly6312As a hunter I agree with the OP’s post, but you make a very good point in that the world of precision shooting has most definitely seen a benefit from the many new cartridges introduced in the last few decades. And as Ron says, it keeps people spending money on sporting arms and ammo, and anything that puts a burr under the saddle of the anti-gunner pinkos is a plus for us all. 👍
I have a Kimber in .300WSM. Its a medium length action specifically designed for this family of cartridges. It's a sub MOA rifle with everything I've shot and a pleasure to shoot. I've got a couple .300 Win Mags as well, and I've noticed that the WSM is the lighter recoiling of the three, even though it weighs about a pound less. That being said, a 180 or larger bullet is going to thump you in either one. I've also seen the WSM in shorter barrels, but you've got to remember it's still burning a lot of powder. A 24" tube is probably the minimum for optimal ballistics. The 300WSM necked down to 7mm is probably the best iteration of this cartridge. It'll shoot the 170 class bullets at 3k and give you the best of both worlds.
Ron the reson why I purchased a 300 wsm was comparing the 300wm compared the shorter bolt action also a fatter case better powder burning rate more equal. Another of the long range shooters are us8ng the 300 wsm . I have noticed it is less forgiving have to have good shooting form.
The old .300 Win. Mag. is by far better than the .300 WSM. I can't see why everyone gripes about the belted mag, case. It adds strength to the base of the case, It's been around since 1912. The .300 WSM is harder to reload, the fat case and steep shoulder angle makes the top of the case spread, when you're seating the bullet. And, the old .300 Win Mag. is faster by 200-270 fps. That's why the Navy S.E.A.L.s / snipers choose the belted .300 Win. mag.
Can’t for the life of me figure why the 270 wsm isn’t more popular. I love mine and it’s stupid accurate out to 500 yards which is as far as I’ll ever need to shoot.
I’m in my early 20s and finally getting into big game hunting. I picked up a Weatherby Vangaurd in 300 win mag and a lot of my decisions and recent knowledge have come from things I’ve learned watching this channel. Thanks Ron!
Congrats! You actually have a rebadged Howa 1500! Probably the best budget bolt action there is! I have a Mueller 8-32 target master, 20 moa one piece scope base, a knox axiom stock- suspension locked up-, and a howitzer style muzzle break on mine. I can run 60rds through it, no shoulder pain what so ever.
Should of got the 300 Weatherby if it's just for big game but if target or long range shooting u made the right decision 300 wm bullets ain't cheap but they not Weatherby high
Yea man. I'm in the same boat just getting started big game hunting. But got a 7 mag. I try to learn something every time I go out
Good pick for both!
The Weatherby Vanguard Howa 1500, great rifle/s. I bought a .308 Howa for my son and .243 Howa for my daughter. Both are very accurate.
Thanks Ron for all you do! I hunt with both the 300 win Mag and the 300 WSM. Both have performed well with loads that I have worked up. Nearing 60 years of age I wish I could hunt for another 60!
I wish you could to, enjoy every day.
I went with the 300 wsm when deciding between the 2. Can't go wrong with either one. It and the 30/06 are my go to rifle calibers for big game.
They're the same caliber.
@@TexanUSMC8089 yeah .308, one just has a little more gas. ⛽
Guys I have both , never had a feeding with the 300wsm. I have been running it for years and love it so much , I gave my custom Remington in 300WM to my son.
Being 74 years old,
I inherited a Springfield 03 in the 30-06 from my Dad and took my first Deer in Utah when I was 12 years old. That rifle became very important to me after my Dad passed away , I had taken Russian Boars and a lot of deer with that gun. I was going Elk hunting and Colorado and bought the Remington 700 in the 300WSM and reloaded 180 gr MRX Barns bullets. I got my Elk but passed up a monster that was 340 yards away with only a head shot available. When I returned I picked up a used 340 Weatherby and put a Vortex scope on it: I reloaded 250gr MRX bullets with the Reloader 33 powder. A few months later I had a cardiac arrest and upon recovery I had lost quite a bit of memory. That was back in 2018 Christmas and feel like I’ve recovered quite a bit. I should be getting my drivers license back soon. Both of my Sons spend a lot of time in Alaska working about the Brooks Range on oil rigs. One as a Directional Driller and the other as an Electrician. My oldest child is a girl who has a Masters Degree in Civil Engineering and works for the State of Virginia expanding an Interstate Highway. I hope someday to have Grandchildren but none of them are married yet.Thank you for taking the time to read this and God Bless.
I get 3008 fps from a 180 grain Trophy Bonded Tipped over H4350 from a 22 3/4" barreled 300 wsm. It's a lightweight, fairly compact rifle....a real pleasure to carry and shoots sub moa.
Holy moly. What action/ overall length? Brass life alright? I know that’s not the priority if hunting.
Try RE17 for shits and giggles … way more speed than 4350
@@wesleyturner1979 I found it to be dirty and inaccurate. I do want to try 16 though.
@@jcarry5214 I get crazy speed with it. I have some H4350 but never tried working up good loads due to the slow speeds. Accuracy with my re17 is about 1” but I’ve had loads that are under 1” with it. Maybe I’ll give the 4350 another go.
@@wesleyturner1979 -I did try RL17...nearly 3100 fps before pressure signs appeared...however poor accuracy in my particular rifle (rem 700 ss). RL19 also gave good velocity/accuracy.
I absolutely love the 300wsm. The big difference I see is ammo availability. Where many shops routinely stock the 300 win mag the wsm is typically more challenging to find. As for the other wsm cartridges, the 325wsm is another I have come to enjoy but ammo is all but impossible to find and when you do find some it's expensive
I stocked up last season on ammo when I found some it was a grind but deals can be found. Don’t give up.
I stumbled upon five boxes of 165 grain Federal fusion 300 WSM last summer. I bought them all!
Almost positive 325 has been discontinued
I now hunt with a 243 more than any other caliber and it's probably my favorite caliber. That being said, I did at one time own a 300 win mag and had a 200 acre hunting club in Alabama. I had deer, 3 bucks and unlimited does each year, hogs, you name it. I have to say that there was never a tracking job with that cartridge. It was exciting knowing that if I could get my cross hair on an animal, it was game over lol. I would walk straight to it. I really have no idea why I haven't bought another one. Especially since I'm blessed to hunt behind my house now. You know what? I believe I will. 😏👍
Another great video Mr. Spomer, thank you. Another thing about the WSM that pertains to we reloaders is that steep shoulder. Make sure and use enough case lube when resizing as that steep shoulder can be pushed back a bit easier than some others if you're a little short on case lube. But then the classic belted mag brings its own little set of idiosyncrasies to the reloading bench as well. Thanks Ron and good luck in the upcoming season!
The key factor in the decision to choose a 300WSM vs a 300WM should be ammo source. If you are a reloader and you like a short action go with 300WSM, if you depend on factory ammo go with 300WM. Also, if you wish to run very heavy bullets like 200gr+ go with the 300WM. Many 300WSM’s are chambered with 1:11 twist (Sako & Tikka) while most 300WM’s are chambered with 1:10 twist… which is part of the reason why 300WM accommodates the longer heavier bullets better.
sako/tikka still chamber wm with 11 twist, even on the trgs.
Ron I have both and in the field there is no difference. The main difference is what you mentioned in the rifle. I have an A Bolt 11 Stainless Stalker in 300WSM. It's a shorter and lighter rifle with a 23" barrel. I have a Winchester Model 70 Extreme Weather in 300 Win Mag which has a 26" barrel. Both handle very differently and the A Bolt 11 is the lighter rifle. Both are great and nearly every rifle manufacturer puts out the 300WSM. In a bolt action it's just different strokes with these two equally great calibres (pardon the pun). Thanks for sharing!
The WSM is said to burn its powder faster in a shorter barrel,where as the older long column of powder require a longer barrel to produce best velocities.
A short mag uses a more explosive powder where the standard 300 uses a slower burning power. Why shortmags tend to have more recoil.
@@davidwatkins767
Not true. It has to do with a wider diameter allowing for faster burn plus the angle of the shoulder. The WSM typically has a lower recoil than the WM.
@northtoalaska8058 not a thing you said is accurate. i own both short mag is way worse, and it does indeed use a faster burning powder.
@@davidwatkins767recoil measurements show the wsm has less recoil force....
It comes down to picking the correct burn rate to tailor for your case dimensions and your barrel length. The longer magnums will make more velocity (more powder does equal more speed) but you need more barrel length than most hunters want to carry to take advantage of it.
I've been using the 300WSM almost exclusively since 2006. A 300WSM throwing a 180 Accubond has knocked down a lot of critters.
Samezees ..... My go too caliber for sure last week me and a friend brought a 180 out to 1200 meters
What’s the biggest you’ve taken with the accubond and how did it preform?
@@IceColdMilk69 I've shot 4 moose with it- recovered 1 bullet on the offside hide. Everything else exited. I've shot 2 fairly large black bears and a lot of caribou.
@@IceColdMilk69 I’m not running a 300WSM but a 30-06 and my 165 gr Accubonds have taken 5 elk, 1 black bear, 6 whitetail, and 2 mule deer. A 180 going a bit faster will only be better than my 30-06.
What rifle you have it in
It always baffles me that so many cartridges have been developed and marketed and continue to be produced. The 300 WSM/RSAUM/RCM/Win. Mag./PRC/Wby. Mag all existing at the same time is amazing. I just can’t see that there is enough difference between them to justify it but it is fun to have options
Thats true even the newer bigger 30s only are a little faster because of bigger free bore. Its all the same.
You live in a capitalist country?
@@Starsky1413 Canada, not sure what to call it right now
Now Weatherby AND Nosler have their own cartridges, the .300 Win Mag’s ammo cost and availability are HUGE factor. And it’s the reason I’ll always choose it as THE magnum .30 cartridge. It’s the clear winner when taking the actual ammo in to consideration. Affording and finding it matters a whole lot, sure there’s bandleaders who don’t care. But the majority of hunters buy their ammo, with that being said it makes the .300 Win Mag the superior choice.
Its similar to the archery market. They are all similar. Sometimes its just the brand you love..
"Yes"!! I do love my 300 wsm! It's a preference for each! Thank you sir, for all your knowledge which you share with us!
Ron, I’m glad you mentioned the 300 PRC. It’s funny how we’ve made a full circle back to the magnum action of the 300 H&H.
Because I reload, I love the efficiency (which I define as ft/sec per grain of powder) of the 300 H&H and 300 WSM. The 300 Win Mag is my least favorite of the 300 magnums, but it’s still a classic.
i usely hit what i aim for under 120 m. 300 h&h the action do not need a second shoot,do no not what the fuss is about,if you want a second shoot buy a good under&over they are good fun in 308
Great Video with some good information.... I picked up a winchester model 70 in the 300 wsm. With the 24 inch barrel. I'm shooting a 150 grain bullet. Very happy with the Gun and caliber... Thanks
My preference is for a short action. So 300 WSM would be my choice.
Both are very capable cartridges.
I’ve been sold on the 300WSM for over 15 years now. I just started LR shooting and bought a Savage 110 Elite Precision in 308Win. It never had the 1st 308Win round through it before being rechambered for 300WSM... With my current reloads, it’s shooting “bugholes” at 200yds while I’m working up loads for 1500 (and longer) yards...!!!
I have the 300wsm from the Remington 700 platform. It's a fantastic gun. I'm not the tallest guy in the world so the short action does me well. The gun is accurate and VERY powerful. Throwing an 180gr bullet at almost 3000fps is insane.
Not a short action model 7 is.
300WSM is by far my favourite caliber. It is extremely versatile. You can get it to provide near belted magnum velocity with less recoil than you might think... I load 168gr Barnes TTSX bullets to 3000fps muzzle velocity with a very modest charge of H4350. That is 126fps below published maximum. By going with a lighter bullet and keeping the velocity well below maximum in a short action rifle you get the sensation that you are shooting a 30/06 or even a .308 not a magnum because the recoil is rather tame. In a quality rifle this cartridge is also very accurate and not too picky with charge weights and powder choice. with this 300WSM load energy doesn't drop below 1500ft-lb until 550yds. vs 450yds for a 30/06 and 350yds for a .308. pushing the same bullet. I have shot 30/06 loads that kick like a mule compared to my 300WSM. Give it a try... 300WSM is all you will ever need for North American game.
Tbh, same. I never noticed the recoil until I'm bench shooting with it. But when I'm out and about hunting with it (i.e. shooting free hand, branch, trigger stick), there is no recoil noticeable. Though, having 3 layers of clothing will help, along with a cheek rest on the stock of the rifle.
I agree, on all you wrote, you Saved me the time to comply.
Ya man! I have a tikka t3x stainless in 300 wsm. Very accurate but it kicked pretty good so I got my gunsmith to put his custom brake on it and now it feels less than a 30-06 with a limbsaver pad
@@Kmecha84 Great idea!... I recently put many rounds down mine practicing long range shooting and yes... it sure boots more than my 308 with a brake... I can handle recoil and make the practice hits on targets out to 600m but... the follow through and spotting hits is nearly impossible. Im gonna do the same as you and put a brake on it... not for the first shot... but for the follow through! Being able to keep your eyes on the prey after taking the shot is pretty important for maximizing your chances for successful recovery!
@@briant7652 I have not had any chambering or headspace issues whatsoever. I use RCBS full length sizing die and im getting .003 shoulder bump. The rifle is a Sako A7.
Yes they are pretty evenly matched. The short magnum is a bit more fuel efficient. I am very happy with my old .300 Win. Mag. I have been using it for a long time.
You also can typically have a shorter barrel length with the WSM compared to the old win mag, since the WSM burns powder more evenly and effeciently
Yes indeed. Looking at Winchesters offerings in model 70 for these chamberings, the old Win Mag comes with 2" more barrel length than the WSM in the same model. So there is actually a point the WSM has over the old mag if the buyer is looking for a bit lighter weight rifle
As I understand it, the WSM must have a minimum of a 24 inch barrel, in order to achieve the same velocities as the WinMag. I remember reading that in the literature when the 300 WSM first came out.
I have a 300 WSM and love it ! Ballistic twin to the 300 WinMag just like Ron said. I have the 325 WSM also and not sure why it didn't catch on since it is a in a sense a 8mm Mauser short.
As a gunsmith and hunting guide/long range shooter and reloader I’ll say “Yes”
Both are amazing!
But the 300 mag wins. The wsm case expands sometimes to the point where the bolt gets stuck closed! We’ve had to use a rubber mallet many many times on the workbench.
300 WM I can’t remember ever having to do that.
Great video also if you drop to a 165 grain bullet the wsm actually out performs the 300 win mag
It's not that the primer is "closer to the center of the column", in fact, the primer of the longer case covers more center area of the case head. The efficiency of the WSM lies in a wider powder column where more powder burns sooner and more uniformly. A "24 barrel ensures all the powder is completely burned, albeit with less powder in the case. Love my Tikka T3 300 WSM. Great show Ron!
An absolute gem of a rifle. Matched with Winchester ballistic silver tip perfect combo
Feeding issues... yes I had this when hunting. When cycling in a hurry that second cartridge doesn't slide effortlessly into the chamber. For my gun, it is best to keep calm and cycle without haste. My receiver is M700 from Christensen Arms Classic. Great shooter by the way! It loves the Accubond LR 190g.
I wanted to say thanks much. I have always considered these two as half a dozen of one, 6 of the other. Even one thing you didn't talk about was weapon weight isn't that much. I personally use the 300 WM on Elk and other large game in the same class.
Love my 300wsm. Went with it after using an 06 for years. No problem one shotting moose and elk out to 500. Got a spike bull moose last week one shot at 375. It has the oomfe to drop then cold.
Recoil difference between 06 and wsm?
It's like buying a new truck. Chevy, GMC, Ford, Ram, Toyota etc...Most people have a favorite. Is a red truck better than a blue truck? My guess is, only if you like red better than blue. LOL The difference between some of these cartridges are small. If you're going elk hunting and you want a new rifle...decide what barrel length your willing to haul around. 30 Nosler, 300 Wby Mag, 300 RUM, 300 PRC, 300 WM, 300 WSM etc...they'll all probably do what you need to do. I have friends that are capable of making longer shots than I can. That's ok though. I do my best to stay within my own ability, and shoot the rifle and cartridge I like, or can afford. I have a 300WSM, so there's no need to go buy a new rifle...unless I just want a new one. lol Great video Ron. Thanks.
All I can really say, these two cartridges are so alike ballistically. The only differences are case length and diameter, and magazine capacity. You could get a slightly shorter rifle with the WSM, but not my much.
If there is any real advantage, long heavier bullets won't impede on the available powder space as much on the 300 Win Mag as opposed to the WSM.
Good comparison been shooting my 06 for 20 years but did pick up a 300WSM 4 years ago. Have to say from a reloading point of view pretty close. Have killed deer and elk with both calibers and results were meat in the freezer!
Nice one Ron, I love my 270wsm, nice smooth round that won’t beat me up, good enough for big game to 400 for me.
I’ve got a 270WSM in the Remington 700 and I’ve started to do my best to improve it. I’ve bought a new carbon barrel and a new stock. I’ve always loved the way it shoots and I’m hoping to make it just that much better.
@@russvaagen3004 sounds like a great build, make some some nice hand loads for it and it will shoot the lights out 👍
I run a 270wsm also. Like the extra velocity over the regular 270 for use with monolithic bullets on big game. Recoil seems on par with a 30-06 more so than a true magnum, which I like. I’ve never shot an animal beyond about 325 yards.
@@phild9813 love mono bullets, I swear by them, I find them to be great within sensible hunting distance👍🤙
@@phild9813 I find that the recoil is solid, but less sharp than my S&W 1500 (Howa 1500) 30/06. Which probably means the velocity of the recoil is a bit less. It’s a pleasure to shoot. My 325 WSM on the other hand is great, but after a 5 shot group you know you’ve done something.
the biggest difference is when you get up in bullet size. the larger bullets may shoot better in the 300 win mag because there is more room for powder when seating the bullet. you can work arround that sometimes with the WSM but your ammo may not fit in the mag anymore.
Thank you for solid advice, looking at a 300 WM atm.
Ron, you’re a good guy. I appreciate you and your videos. Thank you very much for everything you do for the firearm/hunting community.
I bought the .270 wsm back in 2001 and I love it except for the cost of ammo but I hand load for mine and the brass is getting pretty hard to find. Still great cartridges in my opinion
Thank you, you're videos continue to please, educate & provoke thought.
I've used my .338 for decades - walrus, Brown bear, Grizzly, deer, caribou, etc.
Also hunt in Europe, but decide not to travel with the .338 there.
In Europe, I've used .300 Win mag & .300 RUM rifles on a variety of creatures.
The two .300's worked very well.
BTY, I really enjoyed the way the .300 RUM performed. It got my attention!
However, as much as I enjoyed those calibers in my European hunts, I'm still stuck on my .338 Win mag.
Of course, I'm used to it (comfort level), and I find no need to replace it.
You do so well detailing caliber differences. Thank you.
And, please keep it up the good work.
But, we study, we shoot & we clobber creatures. And we find that small, subtle differences don't really count in order to reduce a creature to ambient temperature.
When comparing the long actions to short actions everyone mentions the shorter bolt throw. I’ve never considered that quicker bolt throw important at most ranges that we use a bolt gun. The main reason I like a short action is when mounting my scopes I have quite a bit more room within my rings for eye relief. Rarely does that get mentioned.
That makes a lot more sense. Now I see one reason some people like the shorter stuff.
Good point, but the rings issue can usually be addressed with extended rings (rarely needed on standard length actions, but often on true magnums) or different scope lengths. Of course, if you have/love a short scope and insist on it, a short-action should more easily accommodate.
OK now I'm ready for the comparison between the 300 WSM vs 300 PRC.
🤔 So many choices!
Thanks Ron 👍 Love your channel ❤️
th-cam.com/video/Rjz1rhcRMfg/w-d-xo.html
@@trg3761 Thank you! 👍
I chose the 300 WSM, because supposedly, it would be kinder on my surgically repaired shoulder, as far as recoil goes. Still havent fired it yet, so that remains to be seen. Cant wait to send some rounds down range though!
Great video as always Ron. You could never go wrong with either cartridge. 300 WSM set a new 1000 yard world record recently. 10 shot 10x group measuring 2.64” . The topic of frontal ignition always gets my mind thinking until I remember the pain it would be to remove primers . I’m a huge fan of the WSM family of cartridges, the world needs for the 6.5 WSM to be commercialized and the 25 WSSM to be done rite as the 25 WSM .
The 25WSM is a mirror of the older tried and true 25/06 Remington. It has no ballistic advantage over the older longer cases 25 .Buying one is just for bragging but theres nothing to brag about. 257 WEATHERBY AND 25/06 REM ARE STILL ON TOP.
👍🇺🇸 I just built a 300 WSM in LR308 platform with a 26.5" barrel. Magnum gas and adjustable gas block. The 300WSM with a few fluted inches makes a difference. And I use a 308 magazine. 👍💪😉
300 WSM is a TAD slower, but more inherently accurate. The 300 wsm can also be used on an ar10 lower. KAK industries sells a 300 WSM upper for about a thousand bucks. Expensive, but worth it. I built an ar10 upper in 300 WSM for a tad less and I love it.
Hey Ron I been watching for a while now and I can’t believe the wealth of knowledge on this channel!! This is my favorite channel on TH-cam and when I get on and see you have posted a new video I actually get excited to set down and watch it. Great content love the channel thanks for doing what you do
Thank you Terry. Glad you're enjoying.
Just subscribed and glad I found the channel!
For most hunters, ammo availability and cost will make the biggest difference in choosing. LR handloading is a hobby all its own.
Another great video Ron. One thing I think you didn't mention. The short actions are supposed "stiffer" than the long actions and flex less during discharge making them more accurate. Maybe that matters on a bench but I can't see it making any significant difference for hunting. Your point was well made that for practical hunting these calibers are identical. Please keep your videos coming.
I personally think my 300WSM Tikka kicks less than my son's weatherby 300WM. I prefer the short action. We were both shooting 165 grains. Never had a feeding issue with the T3 or T3X super lite.
Yeah, there is about 11% less recoil with the WSM.
Yea whby has a thump on ya shoulder but 200 fps.faster than win mag ans wsm
I already owned my Browning BPR in 300WM when the 300SWM came out.
Plus the fact the earlier ones were made in Belgium just put me to far in to make a change.....🤠
I the words of another famous Utuber.... Is it enough of a difference to make a difference?
You be the judge.
Nice piece Ron....🤠
Thankyou Ron
This is really a very informative piece Ron. Thank you. I guess, for me I like the idea of getting rid of that problematic belt. The darn thing is so prone to case head separation that it's just not something I want to deal with. It was needed at the time the cartridge debuted but chamber design has changed for the better. I still like it but I like the WSM a lot more.
Have a M70 Extreme Weather in 300WSM. Was the short action for me; great rifle. Thanks for the vid!
Only thing I would add is accuracy. My experience with both, I can say the the 300 wsm shoots factory ammo very well, all of it. Never owned one, but my brother owned two, usually I'm asked to sight in the rifles in camp. I was impressed the 300 wsm.tight groups with anything I shot through it.
I've shot alot of 300 win mags and can't say that.The guys who own and get the best accuracy are reloaders who worked loads
The wind deflection at 300 is reversed, though it's irrelevant to practical hunting. And the real difference in newer cartridges is not the cartridge, it's the higher twist rate built into newer rifles. Much ado about not so much at the end of the day.
I agree - it makes no sense that the slower bullet (from the WSM) would have less wind deflection since it takes longer to get to 300 yards than than Win Mag and therefore the wind has more time to act on it.
Right, Todd. I transposed those two numbers. But, as you note, 0.2" is pffft!
@@RonSpomerOutdoors No worries - dancing on the head of a pin! Great video and thanks for all your great work.
I think cartridge choice here for non-reloaders is heavily dependent on available commercial loadings and projected market longevity. If the round is currently a hot ticket but only a flash in the pan over the long run, the non-reloader is going to be stuck with a rifle that has limited ammo availability and variety, greatly limiting what they can do with such versatile rifles.
Thanks for an informative video. My own, neophyte $0.02 on the difference between Win Mag and Short Mag is that someone probably wanted to make a cartridge that would fit Magnum performance into a short action, such as the short action Remington 700 and similar rifles.
The WSM's were brilliant marketing at the time. Yes the short action is lighter in general, but I've handled long or standard actions that were just as light and or within a couple ounces. One thing to keep in mind is some of the short mags don't feed so smoothly, not all but I have run across a few. I have not loaded for the .300 WSM, but have considerable experience loading and shooting the .325 WSM, .300 H&H, .300 Win mag, .300 Weatherby and a Wildcat called a .300 Cloward Super magnum based on the H&H case. And I have worked with the .300 Remington Ultra mag a little bit. Honestly, they will all work and work well. I'd be more concerned about the rifle and how it fits you for you're purposes than which cartridge name is stamped on the barrel. Having owned several, I don't want anything "lightweight " chambered in any of these, been there, done that, I'm good. In closing I will say that I have no problem getting over 3,100 fps with 180 grain Partitions in my own .300 Win mag (custome rifle, 26 inch barrel), haven't messed with anything heavier because nothing has stood up to it. If I need more I have bigger rifles to choose from. Though I have been a long range shooter for years, I am not a long range hunter, and 400 yards is no problem for my boringly reliable. 30-06. Nice video Ron, keep it up.
I must know about this .300 Cloward magnum!!!
@@georgewhitworth9742 HI Bradley, it's a Wildcat based off of the old belted H&H case. Think of it as a .300 Weatherby improved with no body taper, shorter neck, sharper shoulders moved forward with no freebore. I have gotten over 3,400 fps with 180 grain Partitions, accurately, but it's kind of too much of a good thing, and I am not a long range hunter. So I load 180's at 3,210 and 200's at 3,124. That should do anything you'd want a .30 cal. rifle to do. At the end of the day though, it's real hard to beat the old .300 Winchester Magnum. Especially if you consider ammo and loading components availability. In a pinch, with dies and a little work you can make a lot of different cases from other popular calibers based on the belted case. I have had to do this for the .350 Remington Magnum and the .308 Norma magnum, both easily made from 7mm Rem mag brass. Anyway, pick what you like and use it, what we shoot isn't near as important as how we shoot. Oh, almost forgot, on the Super mag, you can fire .300 Weatherby ammo in it, and the cases come out fire formed to the chamber. So in a pinch, if you loose your ammo, you can shoot factory. 300 Weatherby in it, if you can find it. 🙄. Personally my favorite is the .300 H&H, go figure. 🙂
@@larrybassett5559 Haha nice! I'm sorta keeping an eye out for rare or unusual chamberings to try out, and see if I can reload for. Thats partially what brought me to my own .300 H&H actually! I wanted a pretty good moose gun for up here in Alaska, but wanted something a little more special then a .300 Win Mag, haha. Actually hoping to find a rifle or a company that can custom make a rifle in the .275 H&H, so I can have a .270ish chambering, haha
Are there any rifler makers/currently available rifles in the .300 Cloward per chance?
@@georgewhitworth9742 unfortunately he is retired, and I have never seen another on Gunbroker. I have seen a few mentions of it on the campfire but it's not terribly popular. .300 Weatherby would be easier and close in ballistics. For all around use and availability I'd stick with the old .300 Win mag.
If you have to have a short-action rifle, the 300 wsm is the way to go. That's it.
A good comparison and you really can’t go wrong with either one of those two. My Dad has had a Winchester M70 in .300 Win Mag and has shot multiple whitetail 350 yards and in. Not many places in WV and PA that you can shoot further. Usually under 100.
Two years ago before we went out to Idaho for a mule deer hunt I was looking into getting a .30 caliber to compliment my .270 Win. I have been looking at the .300 WSM in a Tikka T3X for years when I use to work at Cabela’s. But I was open to anything from the .308 up to the .300 Weatherby and Rem Ultra Mags, even a 338 Win (thinking about elk). When I found a new Savage M110 Long Range Hunter in .300 WSM for $565 down from $900 I jumped on it. Even though it is 8.4 lbs naked vs 6.5 in the Tikka.
It shoots the 180-200 grain class rather well whether it be the Hornady GMX or ELD-X or Berger Hybrid Hunters, I need to reload some 180 Nosler Accubonds too.
Id say that 6.5lb’er would be brutal. Thats crazy light for a big magnum. Which when hunting, you probably wouldnt notice but you sure would at the bench.
You really don’t want a magnum rifle that weighs less than 8 1/2 pounds. John, is absolutely right. You would end up not practicing enough, and not becoming proficient with the rifle. My Tikka magnums are in GRS stocks to add some weight.
@@John_Redcorn_ yes I would agree especially since it didn’t come with a muzzle brake or a threaded muzzle to put one on to reduce recoil. Which would be as you mentioned beneficial at the bench. Whether one reloads or is trying multiple factory options to find the best one for their rifle.
@@falba1492 yes I would have to agree. I know some people with a Tikka in the 300 WSM or WM, but was never able to set up a day to try it out and see how the recoil was on a light rifle with no brake.
It isn’t too bad to carry here in West Virginia but I haven’t taken it out west in the mountains yet.
@@TheWVgoodguy22 - I don’t like brakes. I already have a bit of hearing damage from years of shooting, and brakes make the problem even worse. Also, there’s noting worse at the range than being blasted by the person next to you. I prefer to use a PAST recoil pad, and even my 338 Win Mag can be shot 100 rounds no problem.
Love your videos Ron Please keep up the good work. I recently bought a M 70 Winchester chambered in 300 WSM and it is quickly becoming my favorite big game cartridge. Lots of power, flat shooting, and accurate and with felt recoil less than many 06's I've shot. This round should be enough for big game everywhere with a good bullet in the right hands. I sure hope it sticks around.
I miss my 300 H&H. It's definitely longer than the short mags, but in my pre 64 model 70, with a tapered cartridge & controlled round feed, i could chamber another round smoothly, & without risk of my round bouncing or falling out of the action while moving or chambering in awkward positions.
Less weight of the rifle/ short action is the biggest difference. Love both of them.
The 300 WSM by being a shorter case also has a little more barrel to get the pressure up as well as that shorter burn column. I am sure the shoulder has a better seal when fired as well. A few little things all at once make it a more efficient case.
That was a very good and objective comparison, thanks Ron! Enjoyed it.
I know my Dad ended up going with the regular 300 win due to pricing and availability on WSM brass and factory ammo.
Buying 300 wsm brass is nuts. When I first got mine I got a bunch of Federal and saved the brass
Where are you shopping that WN is available? I haven't found factory loads in over a year other than corelokt 300 wsm ammo is everywhere and factory ammo is the same price or cheaper than WM.
Thank you Ron.
Another good video. I have a 300 WinMag and am happy with it. I see no reason to buy a WSM. If I was starting from scratch, I would have to think hard about which one I wanted. The action length is not an issue for me. My primary hunting rifle for 26 years has been a Ruger All Weather Mark II in 30-06. I am used to the long action.
If you don't reload the 300 WSM is a far better choice even at the peak of the ammo shortage every shop I went to had tons of WSM ammo and ZERO WM ammo.
@@Irishjay1025 it's the opposite for me because where I am no one wants to shoot 300 Win Mag
Good info. I think I am going WSM for that shorter action. Thanks. Can't find 300PRC ammo if I wanted too, but it was an option.
The 300 WSM and the 300 Winchester both are great cartridges, but I got my start with the 300 Weatherby magnum in the year 1989. New to hunting and have never been satisfied with the one-cartridge thing, and since two World Wars using the 30-06 came next in the arsenal of gun cartridges. Never satisfied then the 300 WSM Browning A-Bolt still not satisfied then came Tikka T3 in 300 WSM 24” barrel over the 21” barrel in the A-Bolt.
If they are using identical bullets and the WSM is slightly slower it is impossible for the wind drift to be less for the WSM. I suspect they were accidently switched. If this has already been called out I apologize. Other than that I love this channel, keep up the good work.
The WSM is phenomenal for the handloader. Reallly get to see its potential. Superb accuracy, it holds some records in 1000 yrd shooting. Just get handicapped by mag length. For long range hunting i dont mind single feeding. But if need mag length, several good 168-185 bullets that work incredibly well
Ron I really enjoy watching your videos . Your the knowledge really shows.
good to hear you believe its going to be here for a long time. i was scared of that i love my 300wsm
You should do a video on the Remington ultra mags!
Yes he should i want to get one and i need to validate the urge
@@darrengarcia4937 You should probabaly buy at least one. Lol. I own a 300 rum and a 338 rum.
@@AndyAlaska375 yup im looking at a Fierce Rival Carbon in 300RUM.
@@darrengarcia4937 - I would not recommend a 300 RUM with a carbon barrel. You can easily experience over 40 ft/lbs of recoil energy with such a light rifle. With that amount of muzzle blast and recoil, I would just step up to a 338 WinMag.
Although I own both, I have been a huge fan of the WSM since it first started hitting the market. I was initially intrigued by the WSM because of efficiency. If I remember correctly seems like you are able to reduce barrel length, to a degree, without as significant velocity reduction. My go to rifle chambered in 300 WSM has a barrel length of 21”. It has turned out to be a nice mid-weight package easy to maneuver through dense brush but still packs a punch.
Can’t wait to see you evaluate the 300 Ruger WC and PRC 300.
16" 6ARC Gas Gun , 20" 308 and 22" 300WSM are my 3 favorites for hunting medium to large game. Nosler Partition and Edge TLR are my go too ammo
@@cornpopishuntersrealdaddy4690 I dont personally hand load . That being said my father in law hand loads a lot . I had him work up Nosler 100g Partition .
I'll pick up some of the Ballistic Tips and try it out for sure. Thanks
Price of ammunition weight and brass availability makes a large difference too! Great video very informative! I always dinged WSM because I thought it was weaker than the WM and the PRC (precision rifle cartridge) is great for long range competition shooting!
Thank you Ron for doing a review on 300 WSM. Not a whole lot of info on the cartridge and I appreciate your input on it.
Glad it was helpful!
I think I said this before on your Channel but my son had a 300 WSM and me, him and his Wife shot a many whitetail with it the year he had it , none, yes I mean none took more than two steps, not all were hit right but they fell, no runners. We took seven or eight deer that year. He sold the gun after that so I just stayed with my .270.
Another great comparison video Ron. In deciding between these two cartridges I would suggest that one also considers what type of game is to be hunted. For example, if deer, elk and black bear - then either will do.
If one is adding the "big bears" to that list - and want to shoot 220 up 250 grain bullets - then the 300 Win Mag is the choice. It will be able to send those heavier bullets with enough velocity / energy to get the job done. In the 300 WSM those longer, heavier bullets protrude into the case too far - reducing the powder capacity.
I bought a Browning BLR in 300wm last year (2020)
I would’ve preferred it in the 300wsm but for some reason there weren’t any available here at that particular time.
I shot my 300 WSM for the first time a few weeks ago. Other than getting a little shiner and a swollen eyebrow, I'm liking it.
Great review Ron, thanks so much!
short action 300wsm 150@3300 fps, 23" barrel, talk about an amazing do all setup!
Great video. I shoot a 7 mm WSM, Model 70, good shooter. You mention feeding problems I may have a unicorn I’ve never had any issues. I believe I’ve had mine probably 15 years.? Yeah, I hand load for mune
The other thing to consider is availability of factory ammunition under normal circumstances. Most are going to be reloaders but in the unlikely event you need to buy hunting ammunition what are the local stores going to most likely have available. In my elk camp this year all but one has 300WM. I do think there is a great case to be made for the 300WSM.
My grandfather shot animals all over the world with a 300 win MAG, but the short mag performance is just as good in many cases awesome video!!
I really don't think any cartridge that has come out in the last 60 yrs has been necessary other than to keep people buying new stuff.
agreed sir, I have said the same thing at times. It is just marketing.
Perhaps that argument is valid for hunting, but for precision shooters it’s absolutely wrong.
I think also people like to shoot and have variety.
Very tru
And keeping people buying new stuff keeps our arms and ammo manufacturers in business, which drives the anti-gun, anti-hunting people crazy.
@@vitaly6312As a hunter I agree with the OP’s post, but you make a very good point in that the world of precision shooting has most definitely seen a benefit from the many new cartridges introduced in the last few decades. And as Ron says, it keeps people spending money on sporting arms and ammo, and anything that puts a burr under the saddle of the anti-gunner pinkos is a plus for us all. 👍
I have a Kimber in .300WSM. Its a medium length action specifically designed for this family of cartridges. It's a sub MOA rifle with everything I've shot and a pleasure to shoot. I've got a couple .300 Win Mags as well, and I've noticed that the WSM is the lighter recoiling of the three, even though it weighs about a pound less. That being said, a 180 or larger bullet is going to thump you in either one. I've also seen the WSM in shorter barrels, but you've got to remember it's still burning a lot of powder. A 24" tube is probably the minimum for optimal ballistics. The 300WSM necked down to 7mm is probably the best iteration of this cartridge. It'll shoot the 170 class bullets at 3k and give you the best of both worlds.
Ron the reson why I purchased a 300 wsm was comparing the 300wm compared the shorter bolt action also a fatter case better powder burning rate more equal. Another of the long range shooters are us8ng the 300 wsm . I have noticed it is less forgiving have to have good shooting form.
The old .300 Win. Mag. is by far better than the .300 WSM. I can't see why everyone gripes about the belted mag, case. It adds strength to the base of the case, It's been around since 1912.
The .300 WSM is harder to reload, the fat case and steep shoulder angle makes the top of the case spread, when you're seating the bullet. And, the old .300 Win Mag. is faster by 200-270 fps.
That's why the Navy S.E.A.L.s / snipers choose the belted .300 Win. mag.
Same thoughts on the 6.5x55 vs 6.5 creed.
@@annaegger9652 Absolutely !!!
THANKYOU MR. SPOMER
Thanks Ron! Just asked for this video last week!
Perfect!
Can’t for the life of me figure why the 270 wsm isn’t more popular. I love mine and it’s stupid accurate out to 500 yards which is as far as I’ll ever need to shoot.
I still hunt with a 300 H&H. Love it
The 300 Weatherby is my favorite 30 cal magnum, and the 30-06 is my favorite non-magnum 30 cal.
I’ll vote .300WSM every time. #1: short action #2: efficient powder burn #3: not belted
What’s so wrong about the belt?
@@leonardogarcia2506 Nothing. After all, if there were, a great many cartridges would have fallen out of favor.
I don't get the whole short action is faster aurgument either. I've never noticed a difference quickly cycling my guns.
@@georgewhitworth9742 short action’s main benefit of making the overall length of the gun shorter and lighter
@@georgewhitworth9742 100% agreed my friend!