Reduced load or new caliber?

[223Rem]

Any good reduced loads for the 7mm WSM or should I just considering going with a different 7mm cartridge such as the 280 AI? Found myself in a situation where I am no longer able to shoot heavier recoiling cartridges. Would still like to have something with good LR capabilities but do not want to keep picking myself off the ground.

TIA

 

[Zen Archery]

Get a muzzle brake (and an extra set of ear plugs).

 

[std7mag]

How long range are we talking about?
Just targets, or long range hunting also?

While I'm not about to shoot down the 280AI, I don't think it's going to be that much of a reduction in recoil.

I'd lean more towards the 7mm-08.
Targets at 1,000 yards are certainly doable. Hunting to 500 yards.
Only reason I say 500 yards is that there is still enough velocity for reliable expansion.
I've done both with my 7mm-08AI with the 140gr Berger VLD.

 

[Laelkhunter]

As Zen Archery suggested, a good muzzle brake will make a big difference. I had one installed on my .340 Weatherby, and the recoil is now similar to a .270. Ear protection is a no brainer, but I'm sure you already use that.

 

[Tiny Tim]

Reduced loads give reduced performance. If just target shooting, its fine. As others have stated, a good brake will do wonders. Just make sure you always use hearing protection if you're not already in the habit.

If this isn't an option, 7mm-08 is a great cartridge. Reduced recoil (not sure the 280AI would be much reduction), and the cartridge would be operating in its optimal load range.

 

[WeiserBucks]

If weight doesn't matter just build a really heavy rifle and recoil will drop significantly.

 

[memtb]

Any good reduced loads for the 7mm WSM or should I just considering going with a different 7mm cartridge such as the 280 AI? Found myself in a situation where I am no longer able to shoot heavier recoiling cartridges. Would still like to have something with good LR capabilities but do not want to keep picking myself off the ground.

TIA

Being extremely conservative, cheap, broke, tight, if ya like the rifle….. I'd suggest downloading. If/when things change, you can always bring the power level back up! But, that's just me!

I only recommend muzzle brakes to those I dislike immensely! Again…….that's just me! memtb

 

[David_h]

Any good reduced loads for the 7mm WSM or should I just considering going with a different 7mm cartridge such as the 280 AI? Found myself in a situation where I am no longer able to shoot heavier recoiling cartridges. Would still like to have something with good LR capabilities but do not want to keep picking myself off the ground.

TIA

If you hand load then first try the 100gr class bullets for less recoil. Then consider a 7mm-08.

 

[Varmint Hunter]

Switching from 7WSM to 280AI is virtually no change. If I was that concerned about recoil, I'd look to a new rifle/chamber in a 6mm or 6.5mm cartridge. Guys are killing at elk at a mile or two with the 6.5 Manbun. Add a good brake and the recoil will be so light that anyone could shoot it.

 

[Dmagna]

Use a smaller bullet