Thread: Bushpig 7mm - 7mm08 vs 284

Considering a 7mm bushpig. Playing around on Quickload suggest that the 284 doesn't really provide a significant edge over the 7mm08. Being theory, any real world data to support this? Also, do opt for heavier bullets or lighter bullets. I have a few 175gr Eld X?

What length barrel are you considering and what ranges are you going to want it to cover for you

Was thinking of a 16-20" barrel with over barrel can. Would like to push it to 500m if comfortable.

It depends on the application? If it’s making it’s way to the tops, much like vehicles there’s no replacement for displacement. Yeah you might loose more velocity with a rem mag etc but you have more to lose in the first place. You can always download it if you’re that way inclined

If it’s just a choice between 7mm08 and 284 I’d go 284 all day. Especially in a long action

An 18" 708 loaded warm with 162eldx/m will more than cover 0-500m. Had a 284 but not worth it in my eyes. If you wanna spice it up go a 20" rem mag with those 175eldx

Based on my real world experience of several 7mm08 and 284’s, the 284 is going to get you close to 150 - 200 fps more for same bbl length. If you want to shoot to 400 - 500 yds, then both will do the job. If you want to option to go to 700-800 or more then it’s 284. Really comes down to what your hunting needs are and whether you want the option of longer range performance. Personally I’d take the 284 every time

What chainsaw said is on the money. It also depends. 16" is very different to 20". If you genuinely want a "bushpig" meaning very short handy bush rifle that doesn't stretch the legs then yes no point in going 284. But if you are wanting a rifle that "does it all" IE "superpig" then yup you get more from the 284.

I had a 708, changed to 284 and happy I did if that helps

I’ve got a 16inch .284 does everything I need out to 400m shooting the 150g eld-x or 150g game kings. Great to carry around the bush and if I had the need could spend some more time and stretch it’s legs a bit more. Really have to weigh up where your going to do most of your hunting. Biggest tip would be make sure you get the chamber reamed out to suit the pill your looking at using you really need a decent COAL to get the most out of it.

I've got both 7mm08 and 284 18inch bushpigs.
Both tikkas and run 162gr pills.

The 7mm08 has been my goto hunting rifle for several years, the 284 until very recently has been left in the safe.

I've taken goats and fallow at distances from 10 meters out to 600 meters with the 7mm08.

Now with close to 4k rounds doen the tube, it's getting revarreked and restocked into a fire for field shoots.

I might start using the 284 abit more, but it nowhere as efficient at the 7mm08.

My 7mm08 has a 16inch barrel and kills well out to about 250m could probably push it further but never had to.

So there we have it folks. Absolutely no conclusive answer to the question.

My 2c is true bushpig ~16" barrel is intended for <200m shots. 7mm08 best

Do it all 0-500m better with 19-20" barrel the 7mm08 can do it or 284 will do it with ease

We have a saying when doing dems in the military that is applicable here, more is more...

If you handload and it’s your only rifle go 18-20in in 284