Why the 7mm Isn’t Good for Long Range Shooting | Gun Talk Radio

Published on February 16, 2021
Duration: 5:00

This segment from Gun Talk Radio discusses the suitability of 7mm cartridges, specifically the 280 AI, for long-range shooting. While acknowledging its effectiveness as a hunting caliber, the discussion highlights recoil and the availability of high Ballistic Coefficient (BC) bullets as limiting factors for extreme distances. The conversation contrasts this with popular long-range cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor and emerging trends towards 6mm Creedmoor, emphasizing the importance of BC and case design for long-range performance.

Quick Summary

The 7mm cartridge, like the 280 AI, is generally not considered ideal for long-range shooting due to higher recoil and a less extensive selection of ultra-high Ballistic Coefficient (BC) bullets compared to cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor and 6mm Creedmoor. These popular long-range options offer manageable recoil and are optimized for high-BC bullets, which are crucial for maintaining accuracy at extended distances.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Gun Talk Radio Segment
  2. 00:16Caller Lee from Tulsa
  3. 00:23280 AI Cartridge Discussion
  4. 00:40308 Winchester for FTR
  5. 00:567mm Cartridge Recoil Inquiry
  6. 01:01Barrel Life Comparison
  7. 01:12Factors Affecting Barrel Life
  8. 01:31280 AI as Hunting Caliber
  9. 01:38Long Range Shooting Limitations
  10. 01:52Importance of High BC Bullets
  11. 02:096.5 Creedmoor Popularity
  12. 02:27Trend to 6mm Creedmoor
  13. 02:52223 Rem for Long Range
  14. 03:04Recommendation for Long Range
  15. 03:146mm Creedmoor Advantages
  16. 03:25Comparison to 243 Winchester
  17. 03:356.5 Creedmoor Case Design
  18. 03:49Faster Twist Rates
  19. 04:046.5 Creedmoor Performance
  20. 04:22Bullet Design Advancements
  21. 04:36Berger Bullets and VLDs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 7mm cartridge, like the 280 AI, not ideal for long-range shooting?

The 280 AI, while a good hunting round, faces limitations for long-range shooting primarily due to its recoil, which can be comparable to or exceed a .308 Winchester. Additionally, there's a perceived scarcity of extremely high Ballistic Coefficient (BC) bullets specifically designed for maximum long-range performance in 7mm compared to other popular long-range cartridges.

What makes cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor and 6mm Creedmoor popular for long-range shooting?

Cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor and 6mm Creedmoor are favored for long-range shooting due to their manageable recoil, which aids shooter consistency. They are also designed to effectively stabilize high Ballistic Coefficient (BC) bullets, which retain velocity and resist wind drift better at extended distances, contributing to greater accuracy.

How does barrel life relate to cartridge selection for shooting?

Barrel life is largely dictated by the amount of powder being burned. Larger cartridges that require more powder will generally lead to faster barrel erosion and a shorter lifespan compared to smaller cartridges that use less powder. This is a consideration for high-volume shooters, though barrels are replaceable.

What role do bullet design and Ballistic Coefficient (BC) play in long-range accuracy?

High Ballistic Coefficient (BC) bullets are critical for long-range shooting because they are designed to be more aerodynamic, retaining velocity and resisting external forces like wind drift more effectively. Advanced bullet designs, such as VLD (Very Low Drag) bullets, have significantly improved the performance of cartridges at extreme distances.

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