300 WSM? Will this be the only one I need?

[Stinkyshoe]

I am trying to streamline my future gun purchases. I am asking myself," If I could have one long range rifle to be used for deer and whatever, what would it be?". The reason why I am considering the 300 WSM is because it seems to very similar to a 308 in design. I am wondering though, could I load it down and make it shoot like a 30-06? I like to be able to practice a lot and I am not sure how many rounds of 300 WSM I could shoot before I say "uncle". Maybe I should find one to shoot first and try out for 50 rounds. Or maybe I should just get a 308 and 300?
Thanks
Ss

 

[Art Eatman]

Purely opinion, just from reading the data about the cartridge: I wouldn't sell a good '06 or .308 in order to buy a .300WSM, but if one lacks a bolt-action hunting rifle, it looks like a good way to go.

That said, I'd set up to reload for it, for several reasons. Part of it is the money angle for ammo, of course. Practicing and plinking will cost less, and typical practice loads are not loaded to maximum pressures and thus recoil. Part of it is that the cartridge is more than is needed for most whitetail deer at the common shooting distances. Handloading allows loading down as one thinks appropriate.

To me, the short action allows a longer barrel length for a given overall length. It helps hold down the total weight of the package.

I dunno. From reading, I don't see any inherent drawbacks...

, Art

 

[4Truck]

I bought a Browning A bolt 300 wsm back in August, hunted with it all year and have loved it.

You would definitely benefit from reloading as the cheapest I can find ammo is at Galyans for $27.99 per box of Ballistic Silvertips. I have not tried it but have heard of people having very good results from loading down for less recoil and less wear.

When I first bought the rifle I took it out and put about 60 rounds through it before my shoulder politely told me enough was enough.

If you are ever in Northern Va and want to try one out just pm me, you can shoot mine

 

[cratz2]

'Wanting' is one thing but I can't imagine an average shooter, esp one that handloads, 'needing' a .308 and a .300 Magnum. If you can't shoot the magnum effectively, then don't get it. If you can, then get that and forget about the .308.

In all honesty, I can think of very few situations in shooting where a 243 or 25-06 rifle and a 300 WSM rifle wouldn't handle. 243 from everything up to an including mid sized deer and 300 for anything above that. For the handloader, you can go really light with the 243 for the small stuff and heavier with tougher bullets for deer and go light with the WSM for deer up to elk, moose and most bear. I'm sure they'd work in under the right circumstances but I'm not sure if I'd take the 300 out specifically looking for Kodiak.

I plan on getting a 300 WSM when the light weight Savages get the AccuTrigger.