7rem mag fast twist vs 7 PRC

[OpsMan]

I am looking at a Seekins Havak PH3. I can grab a 7 rem mag for roughly $250 cheaper than the PRC model since it’s been discontinued. The 7 REM mag is fast twist (1:8) and the mag length is long enough to load out to 3.5”. Anyone have any experience loading a fast twist 7 rem mag and any experiences that anyone has that would be pro/con of going that route vs the PRC. I’m worried about clickers also with the PRC. Is the belt that big of a deal? I have seen some videos of Reloading Weatherby on YouTube getting some high velocities out of a fast twist REM Mag with N565/570 and a fast twist barrel. I do reload.

 

[Sako300]

I have a Seekins PH2 7 rem mag , 1-8” 26 inch barrel that pushes 180 eldms 2925 around .5 MOA with H1000. No issues at all with brass or pressure. Using Petersons brass. With my 7 PRC, Gunwerks Nexus, I only get 2875 with a 24 inch barrel and reloads. It’s a tad bit more accurate.

 

[Fireflyfishing]

Nothing wrong with a fast twist 7 mag, nor the belted case. Forget the belt is there and setup up your dies so your headspacing off the shoulder…it’s that easy.

The 7 mag case holds more powder than the 7 PRC…FWIW…

 

[30338]

Supposedly Lapua is coming out with 7mm PRC brass. I guess it could be out now. But that would be the only reason I'd consider not going 7mm Remington. H1000 and 180 Scenar.

 

[menhaden_man]

I really wanted a 280 AI but when things were tough in 2020 I went with a 7 RM, XBolt speed in 1:8 I think a 28” bbl. I did this because I already had a 7 RM and brass but don’t regret it at all.

Shoots really well, I’ve been using 168 VLDs and 180 ELD-Ms. Crazy fast, 168s easily 3100 fps and the 180s not too far behind (I can load really long so don’t see any pressure when you think you might).

Have used H1000, IMR4350, and Retumbo successfully.

Given the same choice today, I’d still go 7 RM if nothing else because brass is easier to find and it’s a round that’s not going anywhere. Maybe the PRCs aren’t either, but I suppose time will tell.

 

[OpsMan]

Thanks for the feedback. If I go 7rem mag route will give the Peterson brass a shot. I’ve had real good luck with it in my other rifles.

 

[Dave Thomas]

The rem mag will be faster than the prc. Peterson also makes belted mag brass that is longer than normal so it doesn't have as much stretch on the first few firings.