Choosing a bullet for 7mm Rem Mag

[Pblsc06]

I want to find a factory load that my new 7mm Rem mag likes that I can use for deer, elk, and black bear. My first time out shooting the new rifle, it seemed to like the 175g power shok rounds from Federal. 175gr seems a little big for deer and I would prefer to shoot a more premium bullet. But, my options are limited for larger bullets in factory loadings and it is expensive to test. I am curious if anyone has thoughts on this or experience selecting a go to bullet for 7mm Rem mag. Thank you

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[Nosferatu]

Ammo selection is one of those things that can cause some serious paralysis via analysis. There's so many variables involved that it's impossible to point someone to a handful of loads and say 'pick these'.

It's going to take some experimentation, there's no way around it. What your rifle likes is going to be totally different from what anyone else's rifle likes.

What you're shooting at, from how far and in what conditions are the primary factors, and can change constantly.

Accuracy trumps speed. Don't get enamored by manufacturers velocity claims, you'll never see them in the real world.

Price is a driving factor for a lot of people as well. For hunting rounds, it's the last thing I consider. I'll spend $100+ on a box if it suits my needs. Some people won't. (I also reload, but that's a whole other discussion.) But I want the best performing load for my gun in my conditions for my environment that I trust to get the animal down as effectively as possible.

There's a treasure trove of information out there and I'd suggest watching some videos and hunting forums to see what people are using that line up with your goals and start your specific load search from there. Buy a couple boxes, shoot it, take notes.

 

[TTSX]

You think a 150 grain .284 bullet is just gonna bounce off an elk? If that were the case, I'd doubt an extra 25 grains with the reduced velocity that comes with it would magically drop it.

Shoot several varieties/weights of bullets and pick the one your rifle likes best.

 

[arakboss]

@Knute

 

[Pblsc06]

Ammo selection is one of those things that can cause some serious paralysis via analysis. There's so many variables involved that it's impossible to point someone to a handful of loads and say 'pick these'.

It's going to take some experimentation, there's no way around it. What your rifle likes is going to be totally different from what anyone else's rifle likes.

What you're shooting at, from how far and in what conditions are the primary factors, and can change constantly.

Accuracy trumps speed. Don't get enamored by manufacturers velocity claims, you'll never see them in the real world.

Price is a driving factor for a lot of people as well. For hunting rounds, it's the last thing I consider. I'll spend $100+ on a box if it suits my needs. Some people won't. (I also reload, but that's a whole other discussion.) But I want the best performing load for my gun in my conditions for my environment that I trust to get the animal down as effectively as possible.

There's a treasure trove of information out there and I'd suggest watching some videos and hunting forums to see what people are using that line up with your goals and start your specific load search from there. Buy a couple boxes, shoot it, take notes.

I appreciate you taking the time for a thoughtful and helpful response

 

[Flandersfields]

whatever