The 7mm Remington Magnum is a powerful cartridge renowned for its long-range accuracy and flat trajectory, making it a favorite among hunters and long-range shooters. Choosing the right Sierra bullet and developing a precise load is crucial for optimal performance. This guide provides comprehensive information on Sierra 7mm Rem Mag load data, emphasizing safety and accuracy. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual and Sierra's official loading data before beginning any reloading process. This information is for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for official sources.
Understanding Sierra Bullet Options for 7mm Rem Mag
Sierra offers a variety of bullets suitable for the 7mm Rem Mag, each designed for specific applications:
Hunting Bullets:
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150gr Sierra GameKing: A popular choice for its excellent accuracy and consistent performance on game. Its design balances penetration and expansion effectively.
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160gr Sierra GameKing: Offers greater sectional density than the 150gr, making it ideal for longer-range shots on larger game. Provides deep penetration with reliable expansion.
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175gr Sierra GameKing: Best suited for heavier game at longer ranges, offering excellent penetration and controlled expansion.
Target/Long-Range Bullets:
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168gr Sierra MatchKing: A highly accurate bullet designed for target shooting and long-range precision. Its design minimizes variations in flight path.
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180gr Sierra MatchKing: Provides excellent long-range accuracy with greater stability due to its heavier weight.
Key Considerations for Reloading Sierra 7mm Rem Mag Ammunition
Before delving into specific load data, remember these crucial factors:
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Powder Selection: The type and amount of powder significantly impact the pressure and velocity of your cartridges. Using the incorrect powder can be dangerous. Refer to Sierra's reloading manual for recommended powder types and charges. Common powders include but are not limited to: Retumbo, H1000, and RL22.
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Primer Type: Primer type influences ignition consistency. Large rifle magnum primers are generally recommended for the 7mm Rem Mag.
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Case Preparation: Proper case preparation, including trimming, cleaning, and deburring, is essential for consistent performance and optimal pressure.
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Bullet Seating Depth: Bullet seating depth impacts accuracy and pressure. Start with the recommended seating depth from Sierra's loading data and adjust incrementally for optimal results. Always carefully measure your overall cartridge length (OAL) to avoid exceeding your chamber's capacity.
Sample Load Data (Illustrative Purposes Only)
Disclaimer: The following data is for illustrative purposes only and should not be substituted for official Sierra loading data. Always refer to Sierra's manual for the most current and accurate information. This is not exhaustive, and many other powder/bullet combinations are possible.
| Bullet | Powder | Powder Charge (Grains) | Primer | Velocity (fps) (Approximate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150gr GameKing | RL22 | 60 | Large Rifle Magnum | 3000 | Start low, work up carefully |
| 160gr GameKing | H1000 | 65 | Large Rifle Magnum | 2950 | Start low, work up carefully |
| 168gr MatchKing | Retumbo | 70 | Large Rifle Magnum | 2900 | Start low, work up carefully |
Safety Precautions:
- Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection while reloading.
- Never exceed the maximum recommended powder charge listed in the Sierra manual.
- Inspect each cartridge carefully before loading it into your firearm.
- Use a reloading scale to accurately measure powder charges.
- Start low and work up slowly when developing a new load, carefully monitoring pressure signs.
- If you experience any unusual pressure signs, such as excessive primer flow or hard bolt lift, immediately cease loading and consult reloading manuals.
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for developing accurate and safe Sierra 7mm Remington Magnum loads. Remember, responsible reloading practices are paramount. Always consult official load data and prioritize safety above all else. Your local gunsmith or experienced reloaders can offer valuable guidance and further assistance.
