Possible .300 WSM Custom Rifle Question

[BlkZ06]

I'm looking at a possible purchase on an in-stock custom rifle chambered in .300 WSM.

The only thing is, it looks as if the barrel is 23" long. I thought most barrels in this caliber were 26" long.....sometimes 24".

So yes, the question is.....is the 23" barrel going to affect long range accuracy? I will not be taking shots over 700 yards, so it may be a non factor.

What about velocity in the round?

Any other negatives with the 23" barrel?

Thanks!

 

[nfoley]

It won't affect accuracy - it will affect velocity. You will have a slight decrease in velocity which will translate to more drop at long range. Out to 700 yards I wouldn't be concerned - if you like the rifle don't let an inch or two of barrel dissuade you.

 

[BlkZ06]

It won't affect accuracy - it will affect velocity. You will have a slight decrease in velocity which will translate to more drop at long range. Out to 700 yards I wouldn't be concerned - if you like the rifle don't let an inch or two of barrel dissuade you.

Thank you! How much velocity do you think we'd be looking at?

I ask because I am looking at the 270 WSM also. I have plenty of "regular" calibers but this next gun will be my go-to for Elk, Mule Deer, etc out West.

Some guys say 270 WSM is plenty for any of those listed, some say they prefer the .30 mags in those situations. Some are even ok with the 7mm.

 

[nfoley]

For reference I have a 300 WSM with a 24" bbl that I get 2950 fps with 180g accubonds (and that is factory federal premium).
If I cut an inch off my barrel I doubt I'd lose more than 30-40 fps.
I really like the 300 WSM for elk, mule deer. Plenty of power and flat enough for reaching out.
The 7mm calibers are very popular with long range hunters as well - I wouldn't hesitate to take one on an elk hunt. I have killed a few elk with a lightweight 280 without any issues.
Personally I like the 30 calibers a little more for elk and the 300 wsm is my favorite for this purpose.

 

[Jmilera]

GTG with 23 inch barrel.

 

[jakelly]

Any of the short mags will work.

 

[coldboremiracle]

I'm looking at a possible purchase on an in-stock custom rifle chambered in .300 WSM.

The only thing is, it looks as if the barrel is 23" long. I thought most barrels in this caliber were 26" long.....sometimes 24".

So yes, the question is.....is the 23" barrel going to affect long range accuracy? I will not be taking shots over 700 yards, so it may be a non factor.

What about velocity in the round?

Any other negatives with the 23" barrel?

Thanks!

Sir, 700yds is a chip shot for the 300wsm, even with its wings "clipped" a tad.

The 300,7mm,270wsm family is plenty of gun for deer, elk, etc. so go with what you like.

 

[ajwcotton]

I've got a 300 wsm with a 23 inch tube that gets 2830 with a 208 amax. 7.8 mil to 1000 ane a ton of energy on target. Its one of my favorite hunting rounds. You shouldn't need anything stronger for any north American game.