The 300 WSM isn't too bad on recoil and is a good handloaders round. Ammo and brass issues were a problem a few years ago. The WSM's were only introduced in 2002. Several of the other WSM offererings have faded, but the 300 is the most common and ammo and brass are easily available now. The new 1,000 yard benchrest record was set with a 300 WSM and the smaller more compact rifles make a good choice for hunters. In 20 years I think the 300 WSM will be the most common of the 300 mags.
I can beat 30-06 speeds in mine by 150-200 fps and come within 50-100 fps of a 300 Win mag. I've used both RL-17 and H-4350 for my 300 WSM. I got more speed with the RL-17, but better accuracy with the 4350 so that is what I've settled on
RL-17 and 300 WSM s so close to 300 WM to not matter, but accuracy was not there in my rifle
180's @3050 fps
165's @3200 fps
I never loaded any 150's, but I got 3300 fps from a box of Federal factory loads.
With a max load of H4350 it splits the difference between 30-06 and 300 WM. Accuracy was very good in my gun.
180's @ 2950
165's @ 3050
Never loaded 150's, but the book shows 3180. The speeds I got with the heavier bullets was right on what the book says I should be getting.
From my 22" 30-06's, with some pretty warm loads I get
180's @ 2800 fps
165's @ 2900 fps
150's @ 3025 fps
The question is "do you need the extra speed". Truth is that I'm thinking about selling mine. My 308 does just about everything I need a rifle to do and I find myself not even reaching for the 30-06 very often anymore.
