7 WSM horsepower

[Ksmirk]

Do you folks think the 7 WSM has the horsepower to push a 200gr. Wildcat bullet out to 1500 - 1700 yards? if so would the 1-9 twist stabilize this bullet? this would not be used on game. Just some question before the reamer meets barrel. Later,

Kirk

 

[grit]

Kirk,

I made an educated guesse at a mv of 26-2700 fps. I then ran the numbers at a 4500' altitude. The program put energy at 950 and velocity at 1400 fps at the 1500 yard mark. Still plenty to get the job done.

I was looking at this combo in january. I opted to go with the 7mm Dakota. This pushed mv up 2-300 fps. This gives on game performance out to 2k! The Dakota is basically the same case as the wsm, only 1/4" longer.

I believe my gunsmith recommended a 1 in 8.5 " twist. Might need an 8 twist for the slower mv.

good luck!

 

[Ksmirk]

Well thanks for the info! this rifle will be built so I can get a better handle on the longer range shooting, I have my 308 and 243 that I can get out to 1K and the 243 with the 107SMK's should get me past 1K but I've been shooting out to 1K for a few years and I figure the 7WSM will get me out to the 1760 mark and get me comfortable shooting these ranges before I step up to the Edge to really get out there. I'm building this on a Savage/Stevens long action so when I get proficent at the ranges I can screw on a Edge barrel. I'm pretty sure on the 180 Berger bullets but hey any help with BC could not hurt so I thought I might ask. I was considering a 1-8.5 twist barrel for the 180's I would not think that would spin them up too fast but hey I'm not a barrel maker just an end user. Later,

Kirk

 

[grit]

I think the 7wsm will be a great choice. Neat cartridge. And damnded efficient. The gunsmith recommended a 9 twist when we were talking 7wsm and 180 bergers. I believe you could set up to shoot the 200 wildcats or the 180 bergers.

Speaking of the 243, I sure like mine. I believe it's my most accurate rifle. Seems to perform beyond my expectations every time...