Thread: 7mm mag and 180gr ELDM

Originally Posted by chainsaw

if you're planning on a custom build then definitely check out the 7mmBM option. Brass is no issue - Norma have it, and its way cheaper than Nosler28. As per post above from @Gkp the 7mmBM will get you 100 - 150 fps over a 7mm rem mag and burn less powder doing it. I'm getting 3050 - 3060 fps with 180 VLD's & RL26 in 26in bbl. It's a super efficient cartridge. Its half way between rem mag and N28. Only expense on the BM is cost of dies. Buy once cry once.

Thanks for the info. The reason im considering running a 7RM as opposed to something more exotic is due to the overall cost to play, & availability of brass.

I already have a .338lm which has expensive brass (and projectiles). A quick look online places the 7mm blaser mag brass right up there with the .338LM, or maybe even more expensive - which is just not what im trying to achieve.
Im trying to have similar ballistic performance to my .338 with less hassle involved. Less component costs, less recoil, less fuss, and similar or better ballistics.

I think the two big selling points for me on the basic RM are -
A - the brass is comparatively cheap and available
B - the action for my rifle is very large so I should be able to seat the projectiles fairly far out as not to dig into case capacity (if I choose to run a mag). I think more modern cartridge designs alleviate that issue in a "normal" sized action, but I don't think its an issue for me as the action is massive (TRG M10). If I run a ,300wm mag its can take a COAL of 3.5", or if I bent the feed lips on a .338 mag a little bit I might be able to run a .338 m10 mag which allows for a 4" COAL.

If 7mmBM had comparably priced brass id consider it, but due to above reasons I don't think its the best option for me.