Introduction
The world of long-range shooting and hunting offers a fascinating array of calibers, each promising a unique blend of performance, power, and precision. Among the most celebrated are the 7mm cartridges, revered for their high ballistic coefficients, relatively flat trajectories, and exceptional long-range capabilities. These rounds have earned their place in the arsenal of both seasoned hunters and dedicated target shooters. Within the 7mm magnum family, two titans stand out: the venerable 7mm Remington Magnum (Rem Mag) and its more powerful sibling, the 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum (RUM). Deciding between these two cartridges can be a significant decision, shaping your shooting experience and, for hunters, your success in the field. This article delves into a comprehensive comparison of the 7mm Rem Mag and 7mm RUM, exploring their histories, ballistic performance, case designs, rifle platforms, hunting applications, and overall shooting characteristics. The goal is to provide you with the knowledge necessary to determine which of these formidable 7mm magnums best suits your specific needs and shooting preferences.
A Look Back at History and Development
To truly understand the strengths and weaknesses of the *7mm Rem Mag* and *7mm RUM*, it’s helpful to examine their origins and design philosophies.
7mm Remington Magnum History
The *7mm Remington Magnum*, introduced by Remington in the mid-1960s, quickly gained popularity. It was designed to compete with the then-dominant .300 Winchester Magnum, offering a flatter trajectory and better downrange energy transfer thanks to its excellent bullet selection. This cartridge’s appeal came from its ability to deliver impressive performance with a manageable recoil, making it a viable choice for a wide range of hunting applications. It built its success on existing .30-06 Springfield case, achieving excellent ballistic performance from a familiar platform.
7mm Remington Ultra Magnum History
The *7mm Remington Ultra Magnum* came to fruition much later, arriving on the scene in the late 1990s. It was the brainchild of Remington, driven by a desire to create a 7mm cartridge that pushed the boundaries of ballistic performance. The aim was to provide even greater power and reach than existing magnum cartridges. The RUM was developed by stretching the Remington Ultra Magnum case, providing a massive case capacity to propel bullets at incredible velocities. This pursuit of extreme performance positioned it as a top choice for long-range shooting. The initial reaction was mixed, but the cartridge had the potential to become a true contender in the long-range hunting and shooting world.
The core difference between these two cartridges lies in their fundamental design. The 7mm Rem Mag, while still a powerful round, represents a balance between power, recoil, and practicality. The 7mm RUM, on the other hand, prioritizes raw power and performance above all else.
Analyzing Performance: Ballistics Deep Dive
The heart of any caliber comparison lies in the ballistic performance. Examining key factors such as bullet selection, muzzle velocity, energy, trajectory, and wind drift is crucial in understanding the relative strengths of each cartridge.
Bullet Selection’s Impact
Both the *7mm Rem Mag* and *7mm RUM* benefit from the excellent bullet selection available in the 7mm caliber. However, the RUM can handle heavier bullets due to its larger case capacity, potentially offering advantages in certain hunting scenarios. Common bullet weights for the *7mm Rem Mag* typically range from lighter bullets, like those in the range of grains, up to heavier ones, at around grains. The *7mm RUM*, with its greater case capacity, can effectively launch bullets from grain, with some shooters even pushing beyond that range. The selection depends on the individual target, whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or something else.
Velocity, Energy, and the Numbers
Muzzle velocity plays a pivotal role in any discussion of ballistics. The *7mm RUM*, due to its larger powder capacity, delivers significantly higher muzzle velocities than the *7mm Rem Mag* when shooting identical bullet weights. For instance, a bullet, such as one weighing grains, can exit the muzzle of a *7mm RUM* at velocities upwards of feet per second, while the same bullet fired from a *7mm Rem Mag* might achieve speeds closer to feet per second. The difference in muzzle velocity translates directly into greater muzzle energy. The *7mm RUM* typically packs a heavier punch upon leaving the muzzle.
Trajectory and Long-Range Excellence
The flatter the trajectory of a bullet, the less adjustment required to compensate for bullet drop at extended ranges. The higher muzzle velocity of the *7mm RUM* results in a flatter trajectory compared to the *7mm Rem Mag*, especially at ranges beyond yards. This advantage translates to reduced holdover at longer distances, making the RUM potentially easier to shoot accurately at extreme ranges. Wind drift, the lateral movement of a bullet due to wind, is also affected by velocity and the bullet’s ballistic coefficient. Because the *7mm RUM* has a higher velocity, it can resist the effects of the wind better than its Rem Mag counterpart.
Examining the Outer World: External Ballistics
The ballistic coefficient (BC) of a bullet, a measure of its ability to overcome air resistance, is also significant. Generally, heavier bullets have higher BCs, which means they maintain their velocity better over distance. The *7mm RUM*’s ability to handle heavier bullets with higher BCs contributes to its long-range performance advantage. When selecting your ammunition, always keep your intended target in mind and consider the factors related to your bullet.
Understanding Cartridge Components and Rifle Platforms
Understanding the mechanical aspects of these cartridges – the cartridge case, rifle platforms, and component availability – is also vital when deciding which is right for your needs.
Case Dynamics: A Tale of Dimensions
The case design is a fundamental difference between these two cartridges. The *7mm RUM* has a significantly larger case capacity than the *7mm Rem Mag*. This larger case allows the *7mm RUM* to hold a significantly greater amount of powder, directly fueling its higher velocities and energy output. This increased powder capacity, of course, results in more felt recoil.
Rifle Selection and Shopping
Rifles chambered for the *7mm Rem Mag* are widely available from numerous manufacturers, often at more affordable price points than rifles chambered in the *7mm RUM*. The *7mm Rem Mag*’s popularity over the years has resulted in a substantial market for various rifle styles, from bolt-action hunting rifles to precision long-range platforms. The *7mm RUM* is also widely available, but sometimes found in more premium lines, and rifle options chambered for this cartridge might be less numerous and potentially more costly.
Components: The Cost of Shooting
The availability and cost of reloading components (bullets, brass, primers, and powder) also play a role in your decision. Both cartridges have access to various bullet designs, but the *7mm RUM* requires more powder for each shot, leading to increased reloading costs. The price of *7mm RUM* brass might be slightly higher due to its limited production compared to the established *7mm Rem Mag*.
Considering Recoil and Shooting Characteristics
The experience of shooting these cartridges can vary significantly due to differences in recoil and overall shooting characteristics.
The Kick: A Recoil Comparison
The *7mm RUM*, with its higher velocity and greater powder capacity, produces a considerably greater amount of felt recoil than the *7mm Rem Mag*. The added recoil can affect shooting comfort, especially during extended range sessions. While the *7mm Rem Mag* is by no means a low-recoil round, it is often considered more comfortable to shoot, allowing shooters to maintain better control and potentially improve accuracy during rapid-fire situations.
Shootability and Accuracy
The *7mm Rem Mag*’s more manageable recoil can translate into faster follow-up shots and better overall accuracy for some shooters. The *7mm RUM*, while capable of exceptional accuracy, can be more challenging to master due to its recoil. Selecting a rifle with features like a muzzle brake and a heavier barrel profile can mitigate the effects of recoil in the *7mm RUM*, making it more comfortable to shoot.
Hunting Applications: Matching Cartridge to Game
The intended hunting scenario and the targeted game species are major factors in determining which of these cartridges is most suitable.
The Hunter’s Partner: *7mm Remington Magnum*
The *7mm Rem Mag* excels as a versatile hunting cartridge suitable for a broad range of game animals. Its relatively flat trajectory and moderate recoil make it a well-balanced choice for hunting medium to large game species, such as deer, elk, and black bear, at various ranges. Its wide availability and ammo selection make it a favorite among hunters across various terrains. The *7mm Rem Mag* is an excellent choice for open-country hunting and also performs well in woodland settings.
Powerhouse for the Field: *7mm Remington Ultra Magnum*
The *7mm RUM*, with its greater power and extended range capabilities, shines in situations where long-range shots are common and maximum energy delivery is desired. It’s an excellent choice for hunting larger game animals, such as elk and bears, at longer ranges. It’s the preferred choice for hunters who value the extreme power and reach the RUM brings to the field. The *7mm RUM* is particularly effective in open plains or mountainous terrains where shots can extend beyond the typical hunting distances.
Determining Your Choice: Pros and Cons
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each cartridge is essential.
The Strengths and Weaknesses of the *7mm Rem Mag*
The *7mm Rem Mag* has several advantages. It offers a balance of power and recoil, resulting in a more comfortable shooting experience. The widespread availability of rifles and ammunition makes it easy to find both. It is the more economic choice. However, it does not possess the same power as the RUM, and it may not have the best long-range performance.
The Strengths and Weaknesses of the *7mm RUM*
The *7mm RUM* is known for its high velocity and extremely flat trajectory, making it ideal for long-range applications. It boasts an impressive amount of energy on impact. However, the higher recoil can make it less enjoyable for many shooters. Ammunition can be more expensive and less readily available.
Making the Right Decision: Which is Right for You?
Choosing between the *7mm Rem Mag* and the *7mm RUM* is a personal decision that depends on your shooting preferences and intended use.
If you primarily hunt game species at moderate ranges and prioritize a comfortable shooting experience with ample power, the *7mm Rem Mag* is likely the better choice. The cartridge offers versatility, good performance, and readily available ammunition.
If long-range performance is paramount, you are willing to accept higher recoil, and want maximum energy at extended distances, then the *7mm RUM* may be a more suitable option. It’s important to consider factors like recoil and ammunition cost and availability. Reloading experience can greatly enhance your enjoyment.
Conclusion
In the realm of 7mm magnum cartridges, the *7mm Rem Mag* and *7mm RUM* represent two distinct approaches to achieving performance. The *7mm Rem Mag* offers a well-balanced compromise between power, recoil, and practical hunting applications. The *7mm RUM*, on the other hand, focuses on delivering maximum velocity, energy, and long-range capabilities, at the cost of increased recoil and ammunition expense. By understanding the historical background, ballistic performance, rifle platform, hunting suitability, and recoil characteristics of each cartridge, you can make an informed decision about which one is best suited for your shooting needs. Before making a purchase, it is always recommended to consult with experienced shooters and gun experts, and consider the available rifles.
