Choosing the right cartridge for long-range hunting or precision shooting can be a daunting task. Two popular contenders often top the list: the venerable 7mm Remington Magnum and the newer, hard-hitting 28 Nosler. This detailed comparison will delve into the key differences between these powerful cartridges, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Ballistics and Performance: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Both the 7mm Rem Mag and the 28 Nosler are renowned for their impressive ballistic capabilities, but their strengths lie in different areas. Let's examine some crucial performance metrics:
Velocity and Energy:
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28 Nosler: Generally boasts significantly higher velocities and energy at the muzzle. This translates to flatter trajectories and greater downrange effectiveness, especially at extended ranges. The larger case capacity allows for more propellant, pushing heavier bullets faster.
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7mm Rem Mag: While possessing excellent performance, it lags behind the 28 Nosler in terms of raw power. Its velocity and energy are still substantial, making it a formidable hunting round, but the difference becomes more pronounced at longer distances.
Recoil:
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28 Nosler: The increased power comes at a cost – noticeably higher recoil. This can affect shooter comfort and accuracy, especially during extended shooting sessions.
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7mm Rem Mag: Offers more manageable recoil, which is a significant advantage for many shooters, especially those new to magnum cartridges. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
Trajectory and Accuracy:
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28 Nosler: The higher velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory, reducing the need for significant bullet drop compensation at longer ranges. Accuracy potential is also exceptionally high with high-quality ammunition and rifles.
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7mm Rem Mag: Provides a good balance between trajectory and manageable recoil. While not as flat-shooting as the 28 Nosler, its accuracy is still excellent, making it suitable for a wide range of hunting and target shooting applications.
Cartridge Case and Capacity:
The core difference lies in the cartridge case itself:
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28 Nosler: Features a significantly larger case capacity than the 7mm Rem Mag, allowing for a larger powder charge and consequently higher velocities. This translates to more energy delivered to the target.
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7mm Rem Mag: The classic belted magnum case is well-established and widely available, offering mature load development options. However, its smaller capacity limits the potential for extreme velocities.
Rifle Availability and Ammunition Costs:
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7mm Rem Mag: Benefits from widespread rifle availability and a mature market for ammunition. This means more choices and generally lower prices for both rifles and ammunition.
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28 Nosler: While gaining popularity, it still has a smaller selection of rifles and ammunition compared to the 7mm Rem Mag. This can lead to higher prices and potentially limited choices in bullet weights and types.
Summary Table: 7mm Rem Mag vs. 28 Nosler
| Feature | 7mm Rem Mag | 28 Nosler |
|---|---|---|
| Muzzle Velocity | Moderate | Very High |
| Muzzle Energy | Moderate | Very High |
| Recoil | Manageable | High |
| Trajectory | Good | Excellent |
| Accuracy | Excellent | Excellent |
| Case Capacity | Smaller | Larger |
| Rifle Availability | Widely Available | Growing Availability |
| Ammunition Cost | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The "better" cartridge depends entirely on your priorities and shooting style.
Choose the 7mm Rem Mag if:
- You prioritize manageable recoil.
- You need a wider selection of rifles and ammunition at lower costs.
- You're comfortable with a slightly less extreme trajectory.
Choose the 28 Nosler if:
- You need maximum velocity and energy for long-range shooting.
- Flat trajectory is paramount.
- You are comfortable with higher recoil and potentially higher ammunition costs.
Ultimately, the best approach is to handle both rifles, if possible, and consider your own physical capabilities and shooting experience. Consult with experienced shooters and firearm professionals for personalized advice.
