7 PRC vs 7 SAUM vs 280 AI

[N2TRKYS]

I would say some of the most popular powders for 7 saum are rl23, n560/565, h4831sc, h1000, h4350

H4831SC was very accurate for me, but way too slow for me to consider.

 

[Mark at EXO]

You mentioned lighter bullets, so I would think a 7 SAUM in a short action would be just dandy. Just make sure you pick the right reamer freebore. 7PRC is a bit of overkill for that light of bullet in my opinion. A short action 7saum with an 18" tube would be a dream back country rifle. Very easy to load for and works with quite a few different powders. I have loaded for about 5 of them and had luck with RL23, N565, N560, H1000, RL26, H4350

This x1000. Super happy with my 18" SAUM (Short Action, SAAMI chamber) with everything from 140-class monos, 150-160 bonded cup and core (Terminal Ascent, Accubond), or up to 175 ELD-X.

 

[WKR]

This x1000. Super happy with my 18" SAUM (Short Action, SAAMI chamber) with everything from 140-class monos, 150-160 bonded cup and core (Terminal Ascent, Accubond), or up to 175 ELD-X.

What speeds are you getting with the monos?

If you had the option when you built the rifle would you have went with the Prc or stuck with the SAUM?

 

[ID_Matt]

I would think the 168 LRX would be perfect for a 7PRC.

Monos should be light for cartridge for higher MV.

Ya, you are likely right. I don't pay much attention to monos.

 

[rootacres]

I am a big fan of the 7 SAUM. My field experience has led me to the opinion that it is among the best calibers for elk size game and smaller. In a mountain rifle, if you're really pinching ounces I think it's the best option of the 3.

That said, if you're ok with the slightly heavier long action the 7 PRC is a great option. Or if you plan to go after something larger than elk. It's a step up in ballistics but also a step up in recoil. The chamber design lends itself well to the newer, long, high BC bullets. Fast forward 10 years, IMO there will be more 7 PRCs than 280 AIs.

My 7 SAUM pushes 168gr VLDs at ~2850fps (22" Proof). In that same length barrel I think you should expect north of 3000 fps in the 7 PRC with that projectile.