Long-range shooting expert, he literally wrote the book, L.P. Brezny, makes his case for what he thinks are the best Long Range Cartridges.
United States -(AmmoLand.com)- First off, a number of you won’t like what I have to say on the subject of long-range cartridges.
Prior to starting this material I interviewed several hard-nosed long-range shooters and asked each of them the same question. “Name five of the very best long-range cartridges please”.
In each case, I got a totally different answer, except for one single round of ammunition, and that was the tried and true 300 Win Mag, of which I own several rifles and totally agree. You see this is the problem here. Everyone out there in AmmoLand has their idea of the best of the best, and in most cases, it starts with what they own in a rifle, and shoot themselves. With that in mind, I turned to an old saying that I have hung my hat on for many years. The saying goes like this.
There are the three “P’s” when it comes to the best of the best long range rifle rounds, and as you already know, I am about to tell you about each of them : Performance, Practicality and Price.
When evaluating a cartridge that adapts well for a very long shooting down range I like to look at the rounds performance ability, practicality in the field, and finally the price per round.
Somehow the idea has been floating around that shooters are made of money nowadays. The fact is nothing could be further from the truth. Making a more modest round have some staying power is the key to success, but my task is to select each round based on a number of factors that center around the best of the best long range cartridges, so here is the whole deal in an ammo can.
50 BMG Long Range Cartridges
Say what you like, but nothing fired from a human shoulder can touch the big bad 50 cal cartridge. The fuel cell is so outstanding that the benchmark 30-06 cartridge was the basis for it by the developer John Browning in his search for an anti-aircraft round. The big 50 will send a 750-grain bullet downrange at 2700 f.p.s., then destroy almost anything in its path that ranges from barricades to warm targets. In terms of ranging ability, the massive bullet will stay awake (above the speed of sound ) and clear out to 2,500 yards before someone puts a pillow under its head. Shooting the 50 cal requires a whole lot of rifle, and in this case, I have owned several, but today shoot a very straight forward Steyr H.S. 50 with cut rifling, and it is so accurate that it has held long range world titles for back to back years across the board.
Practical? No, but a great deal of fun when shooting off the tops of bad lands mud butts at a mile away.
Price per round? Very high but through outfits like Century Arms, and Federal Cartridge ( American Eagle ) case lots are half that of much smaller long range rounds. In terms of performance. Well, nothing was feared more than an American sniper and his 50 Barrett in the sandbox.
On that note I rest my case.
408 Chey-Tac Long Range Cartridges
The 408 CheyTac has a mixed history of both success and failure, but in the area of pure ballistics, it is a very deadly gunning system. As a total long range wildcat round with no parent case at all, the round is unique, and the time I have spent behind a custom McMillan turn bolt shooting this cartridge can be considered memorable at the least. Some will say the 416 Barrett commands more respect than the 408, but being a bit old school, and liking the added velocity of the big “8” over the 416, it still takes top billing in my book.
The 408 Chey-Tac sends a 419-grain solid copper ultra-high BC bullet downrange at 2900 f.p.s., or a somewhat lightweight pill being 305 grains at a blistering big bore 3450 f.p.s. That’s hot in terms of a big round, and I have a close neighbor in the mountains that shoots over a mile off his back deck at a limestone bolder on the next mountain over for kicks on any given Saturday afternoon when the wind is right.
338 Lapua Long-Range Cartridges
Viewing the whole best long range cartridges subject as you care to, in most cases the real heavyweights in cartridge selection will boil down currently to the 338 Lapua. From grain weight options, price point per round, practical applications, and performance at long range, this cartridge is just about the best of the very best as a long distance shooting choice. Like the previous offerings just covered, the 338 Lapua is a military generated round that has been developed by the Fins to replace the 50 BMG, 416 Barrett, and the 408 Chey Tac as a long range snipers tool.
As 338 Lapua ammunition has built an outstanding track record among military snipers and sportsmen alike this option is here to stay.
300 Winchester Magnum or just Win-Mag
The short form here is this 300 Winchester Magnum cartridge is a massively popular go-to round due to cost per round downrange, options in rifle available as chambered in the 300 Win, and its performance even at ranges well beyond 1000 yards.
Currently the US Army has gone to this cartridge when chambering their turn bolt Remington 700 action sniper rifle, ( M-24’s, ) and when applying a new round to chassis rifles like the Remington 2010 sniper platform, among others.
Snipers needed to get past 1000 yards, and that meant turning to more cartridge and more bullet to do the deal.
Now the 300 Winchester Magnum can hold off mortar crews and small unit snipers to ranges beyond 1500 yards all day long in the mountain of Afghanistan. As a long range big game round or hard steel target cartridge this is a top contender, to say the least.
Hornady’s 6.5 Creedmoor
Hornady’s Dave Emery ballistic expert broke the mold on this one, and now after almost two full years of testing by way of four different rifles at, and beyond 1000 yards here in western South Dakota, I can say for a fact that we are seeing the next rising star in long range shooting.
Why the best of the very best?
Because the 6.5 Creedmoor will stay with and exceed a pile of cartridges, not break the household bank account, and is quickly growing in terms of cartridge brand options and bullet types. Sierra has just released the 130-grain TMK in 6.5 caliber, and Hornady offers the brand new cold tip ELD-X in a 140-grain Match bullet this summer. With the new Federal American Eagle offering in a 140 grain “hollow tip” pill, and Winchester’s 140-grain Match ammunition, factory loads are everywhere. Black Hills ammunition is considering very seriously offering the new round because I believe due to the Sierra bullet options now available to this high-quality cartridge company.
In just handloaded bullets, Berger has now built a new 130 grain VLD that will drill prairie rats to 800 yards all day long. By the time this copy goes to press I would not be surprised to see still additional bullets and loads coming to volition.
I believe that the 6.5 Creedmoor could be the 21st century 30-30 in terms of general popularity down the line.
About the Author L.P. Brezny:
With more than 50 years of experience in the field and the testing lab, author L.P. Brezny is one of today’s most recognized shotgun experts and authors. He is a contributor to dozens of firearms publications, such as Wildfowl, Shotgun Sports, and Varmint Hunters, and he is a regular columnist in the Gun Digest annual.
AmmoLand Editor Comments: This article was updated to reflect changes in product improvements/availability on 08/29/2018.
I have always love the 3006 and have it in a Remington 700 with synthetic stock
I’ll shoot anything. I make sure I can shoot a few 3” groups at 200 yards offhand with any centerfires.I’m satisfied for the day at that point. I’m no Stevie Sniper wannabee- lol. My out of the ordinary 325wsm rifles do pretty good way out there. Other than that I’ll stick to common calibers like 30-06,
30-30,.223. Have fun shooting boys n girls. This long range craze and supported shooting is of little interest to offhand shooters and won’t be as practical as you think in the moment of truth.
I started shooting for fun after I got out of the Army in 1972. My uncle was a bachelor and had several rifles in various calibers. After he passed away I tried out his weapons. They were as follows: (1.) Savage .250-3000; (2.) Marlin .308 and (3.) Winchester 30-30. None of these weapons thrilled me as much as the M-14 in .308 caliber. Several older guys I worked with were into reloading. One guy suggested the Remington 700 in 30-06 caliber. I bought one and have been reloading it since 1976. I also bought a Remington 700 in 300 win… Read more »
I have a great savage 6.5CM and it is a Tac driver. Thought the article was great; however, I have found for long range shooting nothing beats my 6.5×284 Norma. Once a wildcat now legitimized, but still not popular. Don’t know why, as for me I am sold on 6.5.
I have many calibers of rifles but the 6.5’s beat my 300 wm hands down.
6.5×55 great deer gun
6.5 CM awesome sheep gun
6.5×284 – best gun to shoot the dandruff of a flea at 700 yds
One mans opinion 6.5×284 Norma!
As an owner of the 6.5 X284 and the 6.5 Creed, I totally agree with you. I just got back from Namibia with over 17 head of game killed by the 6.5 x 284 from 150 to over 500 yards. Seems American have jumped on the bandwagon with the Creedmoor as it don’t come close to speed of the 6.5 x 284 in fact shooting over a chronograph I find the 6.5 Creedmoor some 300 FPS slower with the heavy bullets. Both have their place but to leave out the 6.5 x284 from the top best long range rifles is… Read more »
Good article. What about the Remington 25.06? I’ve been shooting my model 700 with 4-12 variable Leupold for 30 years without having to adjust the optics for just as long. It’s, literally, deadly accurate at 500 yards. I would not hesitate to give it a go at 1000 yards with the right load. Granted, I’ll never hunt moose with it though. That I have done with a .270. Check out the 2018 American Rifleman article creedmore vs 25.06.
My go to gun. I have a Howa 1500. And it is ammo finicky. Does not like Remington ammo. PPU 90 gr Hollow points work great for deer. Neck shots (save the meat). My Buddy has a 760 Game Master that I fell in love with after shooting it in to make sure scope was still on (100 yds). What a tack driver. I thought I was missing the target after the 1st shot. Nope upon closer examination it was hitting the same hole. Still trying to buy it. One day it may become mine. I’m breaking him down day… Read more »
Great article ….. I purchased a 6.5 Creed this past year and I really like its versatility. I have not done bench competition with mine yet but I have hunted Montana mule deer with it for the last two years. And two shots down range ( both right at 250 yds) have put two nice deer in the freezer. I hunt with the Hornady 143 gr. ELDX with 34.8 grs. of Accurate 4064. The impact is incredible. My next step is to get more educated on this round and start loading for long range prairie rats. Thanks again for the… Read more »
Grizman, Thank you for all the info ! Yes, you’re correct about the relationship of the length of a bullet and barrel twist. I regularly look at the Berger chart for stabilization or use the Greenhill formula to have a quick answer for a particular bullet. For the 300 grains pure copper ones, you are correct, unless I shoot at high altitude they will not stabilize. Another factor is bearing surface, if it is reasonably on the shorter side, a longer bullet can still stabilize. I have this Lapua rifle for hunting and depending on where I am, I use… Read more »
Good morning America! There is so much to be happy about this morning. Hillary Clinton is still not president and God still expresses his love for you through your pet dog!
@ W. Bill, I’ll second that! Both make it worthwhile to get up and get going.
Wild bill u said it better than anyone cud say ur rite I hope we have seen the last of Hillary she very bad for guns and america
For prairie dog hunting the .50 Browning round fired just under their noses causes enough vacuum to suck their lungs empty for a few seconds so they collapse from lack of oxygen. Then we take them prisoner and interrogate them to locate their main town and their leaders.
You work for the Govt. dont you! lol
The bullet will not do any damage near the target. It has to hit the target. You can shoot right next to a lightly stacked playing cards and they won’t move, unless you are so close for muzzle blast
You forgot to point out prairie dogs do not speak any of the languages of men , so how can the prairie dog be interrogated.
Sorry folks I just couldn’t help myself.
What?! You never heard of the Vulcan mind meld?
@Steve, It is amazing how fast them rodents can learn English, if you slap ’em up a little. I know a good joke line when I see it.
Nevertheless, I thought it was a good saying or joke.
Good man I hope you find their leaders and their major cities we need more people like you. Intelligent interrogating Intimately satisfies me.
Ahhh!?!? Where’s your spirit! Suck the 0 2 out of em, then waterboard the little rodents! They’ll talk!
The old venerable warrior 300WM had to make this list due to ammo availability and cost and favorite son status. In terms of performance with current long, heavy for caliber bullets there are better performing cartridges available today…….300PRC, 300Norma Magnum, 30 Nosler, 300 WBY, 30 Sherman for starters. Admittedly more so than the newer cartridge contenders, the 300WM will always pass “The Two Dot Test” for ammo availability but, it suffers from 1963 ballistic and bullet technology…..short head dimension (ie. 0.72″ vs 1.12″ 300PRC); “bowling ball down a hall” SAMMI chamber throat dimension (0.315″ versus 0.3088″ 300PRC), and less accurate… Read more »
Too bad not a single reloading agrees. Nore does real life long range competition.
GREAT info by Grizman914 Keep it up plz.
Yes just a question wut do u guys on here feel is best used for deer hunting purposes a 308 bolt action or a 3006 browning safari both are accurate rifles and not much difference in what they can do but what u guys feel is the best for hunting purposes
@Georgiaoutlaw. For deer? If your question encompasses strictly deer, and only deer, then … .256 Newton. Best cartridge, ever! You gotta get one.
WB hate to say I’ve never heard of that cartridge or the rifle that gets it going forgive me please I’m pretty much a simple deer hunter that’s glad to shoot straight want to cry wen I do accationly miss especially if it an exceptional animal that I didn’t get but that not happen often thanks to my family before me for that wild bill I thank u for ur comment
All good cartridges in this article. One that was overlooked is the 300 Rem Ultra Mag. The case is based off the 408 Jeffery and has more volume than the 338 Lapua and the 300 Win Mag. I load the 230 grain OTM Berger at 3100 FPS and it stays super sonic out to 2000 yards.
Some ppl like the 6.5 because they don’t like the recoil of the 7mm …. maybe idk for sure
It’s been yrs since I shot a 7mm08 brother had a weatherby yrs ago but sold traded it for something it was bout like the 308 best I can remember if was shooting that lite I’d just hunt with a .22magnum
Does no one ever look at 7mm-08? I mean, I’d take it 10-1 over the 6.5 gaymoor
Allen – a high school friend of mine from Klamath Falls, Ore – great athlete – became a Marine DI (much to his father’s chagrin – as Dad was a USAF fighter pilot) and competed in the Marine annual shooting tournament. I also communicate with noted hunter/writer (retired Brig Gen) Craig Boddington who did as well – and I put them in touch to reminisce. My friend said as one who had other Marine duties – being a DI in SD – he couldn’t practice all that much – and the offhand score was what kept him from getting to… Read more »
300 RUM should be on this list!
How can you put the 6.5 Creedmoor over a 7 mm Magnum that’s just dumb a 7 mm Magnum will out shoot a 6.5 Creedmoor any day of the week
One huge difference is the nasty recoil of the 7mm!
Tom Schiff: I never had the pleasure or opportunity of meeting Carlos Hathcock. I did one time run into his son at Quantico, back when I was shooting rifle competition there, as a civilian competitor. Great rifle ranges, in the worst possible location, comfort wise, Washington D.C. weather, which is terrible. Worked a match with a Marine Gunnery Sgt. shooting at Cherry Point. We ended up shooting the two man team matches that were held on Sundays, individual matches shot on Saturday. Some years later I read a book about Hathcock that made mention of his back-up man/spotter in Viet… Read more »
OMG – I would have loved to have shot at Camp Perry when younger. Love the stories from Carlos Hathcock? watching the flags to finally just get in his last shot when they went flat. Hunting in the woods in Southern Oregon – rare to have a shot much longer than 100 yards – but Buddy – the Indian (now called Native Americans) who taught me how to hunt when I was 12 – shot his Mule and Whitetails thru the eyes to prevent waste. Buddy was a family friend/patient of my Dad’s – and he used a 30.06. He… Read more »
LOL Georgia. RE: JUST SHOOTING AT Targets long range. My dad – old Doc Schiff – grew up in the recession and one did just not waste ammo. Shooting in Oregon was to fill the freezer! That said – even once having been on a college rifle team (AF Academy – 1964-5) – I am finally looking to some long range – 1,000 yard plinking – now at spry 72 years of age.. ‘Splurged” for a used Weatherby Mark 5 – in 300 Win Mag – to supplement the trusty old 30.06, and put a decent scope on it –… Read more »
Tom:
I have you by 13 years, and gave up rifle competition a while back.That said, a Winchester made Garand, I once owned did quite nicely out to 1000 yards in matches at Camp Perry and Quantico. Later on, post 1964 Model 70 Winchester Standard Target rifles, caliber 30-06 with Redfield International or Olympic sights. Never found Magnum Calibers either necessary or worth while. I was never a hunter though
Great but I personally don’t care for the vortex line of rifle scopes but that’s just me thanks
You have heard and seen me comment on how much I like the bushnell legend ultra hd 3-9-50 well even tho it’s a great scope in its on right it still failed me so bushnell replaced it with a3-12-44 Nitro 30mm rifle scope if I’m lucky I’ll get a chance to shoot at mr big horns before the season goes out here in Georgia seems so far to be very solid like the legend I’ll post good or bad wut ever happens
That’s wonderful hope I not offend anyone’s feelings that’s great that u shot for a reason I do like to shoot my rifles just can’t afford to do it as much as I would like to thanks keep shooting
I remember when I was a kid we that is my brother and our cousins we grew up with we shot bb , pellet guns 22s and shot guns like it was no tomorrow what fun that was just shooting to see we could hit something them days are long gone , does anyone remember them days just running around and plinking at what ever u wanted miss them days of my youth
Deer hunting this past week end very disappointing using my browning safari 3006 and my until now trusted 3-9-50 Bushnell legend ultra hd it went from very great image to a very bright image look on all pwr settings for sure Bushnell will hear from me next week let ya know wut happens this went from very good to pos in very short period of time
Bushnell replaced the legend with Nitro 2.5-10-44 I’ll see if it works out better than the Simmons Aetec and the legend ultra hd both very good scopes but they didn’t live up to ther name so I’m scared of the Nitro if u can help me I’ll listen Thanks
Leupold to expensive for my taste only have a few just sitting in my gun closet Bushnell has failed me a few times nikon startdcout bad but once they got it to me rite I’ve not had any troubles
Go grab a 3×9 Zeiss Conquest,you’ll never look back. You can catch them on sale for 399 an under
I’m sorry at ther discretions bushnell replaced the legend with a Nitro 3-12-44 not the 2.5-10-44 they had discussed with me says it will be better than the Legend was I’m hoping so since I never got to put the legend to a great test with it failing in under 5 yrs luckily nikon is on my other hunting rifles but I do love my browning safari 3006
I am not a long range shooter but My savage 10 in .243 is good on white tail out to 400 yards with a Burris predator Quest 4.56×14.5×42 is absolutely a fine optic and very easy to see clearly at any range.
I have shot several deer with the federal power shok cartridge never a problem always been correct amount of blood and damage deer didn’t go far but a trail to follow for sure Saturday morning if my dad didn’t just happen to see him we would have lost this deer why this one didn’t bleed…? Anyone have an idea what went wrong
I’ve researched a little bit best I can figure is the chest cavity just filled with blood wen it should’ve been coming out the exit wound why that happened at this time it’s mysterious to me I’ll stay with same cartridge and see wut happens got to be a fluke to many deer have fallen to this combo…. mystery to me lol
Shot a 5pt buck Saturday morning hit square in tha shoulders 150yds ran 50yds absolutely no blood at all lucky to find him easily as we did destroyed bot shoulder entry and exit holes impressive but did not leave on drop of blood only a big chuck of hair found no blood what was the problem 308 federal power shok 150gr have killed several deer with this cartridge no problem at all got to be a fluke
I am really surprised no one mentioned the .25-06, Great long range caliber and has been around for a long time and is easy to reload, I am a hunter and longest shot was about 538 Yards with my 338 win mag. Never tried 1000 yard shooting, but it sounds like a nice retirement activity. Thanks for all the information.
Got two of them one Savage an a Sako.Take them ove a 30-06 Any day.It is a fine caliber
Yes Doug, it is a fine caliber, however the time-tested and combat-tested .30-06 Spfd. has more power on heavy species.
Don
Yup the ole 30-06 has been around longer than I’m old.lol I have one in the m1. I just like the 25 myself.Just me
Chuck Norris doesn’t need a bullet. He just stares at the target and it dies.
I do have other rifle scopes and yes I do really like my bushnell legend it’s an awesome scope for what I do that is deer hunt I don’t just shoot for fun I shoot for meat thanks for ur advice sir
I think this is a great blog and love all the dynamics – but for most situations – I would take my trusty 30.06 and my 1911 .45 Colt or Glock .45. If you think you are going to be in a shootout with terrorists types – a good semi-auto – AR 15 whatever. Anyone shooting over 500 yards at game had better really know their equipment, shooting conditions – especially the wind, how to have a very solid position/stance, etc and have practiced continuously before going hunting.
Funny how the 6.5 Creedmoor is in there over the 260 Remington while the Rem goes 100-150fps faster on a bad day. Even the old 6.5×55 will outmatch the Creed. Is the Creedmoor better because of all the advertising? Seems like that’s the only thing that’s made it popular…
That’s the only thing advertising.260 will beat it all day.Tell the public horse shit is good to eat all the time,you will have some believing it.Creedmoor May shoot alright,but to keep advertising it’s all that an a bag of chips is to much
ust bought a Howa 1500 HLR, 24 inch heavy barrel 6.5 Creedmoor. No problem loading for it to shoot 2850+ with 140 gr. No primer distortion. Have not pushed it yet, but see the Creedmoor as a round easy to develop with all the choices for it. Im sure the 80+% of the long range world class shooters are not hype bitters. These guys are factoring coriolis effect into their calculations. I doubt very highly that they are dumb enough to not understand caliber type balistics. Sorry guys its the real thing. Our planet loves the .264 boolits. When these… Read more »
And as I said before,the 260 will out do it all day. I am sure you like your little gun.Everyone has their own opinions.They are just like assholes,everyone has one. Build what you want,I don’t see all the hype in the cm , to much other stuff out there
Funny and it makes great fertilizer
Shootit, You’re off topic. The point that was made is that the 260 Remington will shoot faster than the 6.5 Creed. I’ll add that it is every bit as accurate. The fact those who shoot long distance with it study their loads doesn’t mean that their choice of cartridge beats everything else in the same caliber. It’s a good cartridge but so are the others. I agree with Rick and Doug that its popularity, not on its own because it is well deserved, but compared to the others is very largely due to good marketing. Would I shoot one, sure… Read more »
Only thing close that I have is 223 in savage bolt gun for deer hunting it’s pretty damn accurate with a Simmons’s Aetec 2.5-10-44 phillipines made great set up shoots hole in hole at 100yds easy
It’s obvious there are a lot of old school people here commenting that haven’t taken the time to do their homework. Fact, the 6.5 creedmore does outperform the 260 and on less powder. It’s much more efficient and a shorter cartridge to boot. Try looking up real world reloading specs.
Grizman – There are many in the long range field way past “Book” recommendations. Many reloading manuals don’t have the latest powders or bullet combinations listed. Especially if it’s not the latest hype caliber. Serious shooters take a lot of time “Developing” that pet load. At a recent long range comp in my area, 1st in 6/6.5 category went to a 260AI out of a Rem 700 @ a distance of 1 Mile. That day (!) 1 Creedmoor shooter reached 1500yds, but the rest were out after 1200. Only others hitting 1500 or further were 338 Lapua or variations. >>Different… Read more »
Thoughts on or exp with a Burris Eliminator lll ?
Qldmarine >>> H
i just purchased the Eleminator III and planning on mounting on a 224 but haven’t gotten it yet.
there is a lot of choices for the 224 but need to do a lot of research before picking out the one to get.
Oldmarine.
I save money my hunting rifles always get 150gr or 180gr depends on caliber I’m shooting 308 r 3006 for deer hunting my best is Federal power shok shot them all but for the money Federal will always get my dollars
My Long Range go to Cartridge has been the 300 Remington Ultra Magnum. I’ve been able to produce reloads of this cartridge to shoot in my Remington Model 700 Long Range Rifle that can achieve great results in bullet weights from 150 gr., 165 gr. , 180 gr. and factory ammunition that’s available at 210 gr. ELDX and 220 gr. ELDX.
It’s not only versatile but incredibly accurate maintaining energy on impact that exceeds the results of most of the cartridges that are popular in this day and age.
I completely agree I also have a 300 RUM in a Remington sendero with a night force G7. I shot a bull elk at 980 with 37 inches of wind drift 1 shot and he dropped love my 300 RUM. I hand load my shells with 105 grains of hodgens retumbo powder with a 180 grain Hornady sst great load for my gun
My Long Range go to Cartridge has been the 300 Remington Ultra Magnum. I’ve been able to produce reloads of this cartridge to shoot in my Remington Model 700 Long Range Rifle that can achieve great results in bullet weights from 150 gr., 165 gr. , 180 gr. and factory ammunition that’s available at 210 gr. ELDX and 220 gr. ELDX.
It’s not only versatile but incredibly accurate maintaining energy on impact that exceeds the results of most of the cartridges that are popular now.
Sorry for the duplicate, didn’t know they were gonna post it twice
I think the Bushnell model you speak of – Georgia – 3.9 40 MM Ultra HD- has been discontinued – but still may be in inventories somewhere. Also saw good reviews for the Vortex Diamondback – around $229 or so? Still looking at the Burris Veracity – 3×15 50 MM – around $500 for a used demo model. And pretty much decided on a Tikka T3X in 300 win mag – Stainless for $699 – guaranteed sub MOA – and universialy good reviews – with the caveat you might have to experiment to find the right load for your particular… Read more »
Yes the legend has been discontinued but u can still find used if u hound ebay looking for one they are worth look I don’t really care much for the vortex not very impressed with what they offer but thanks
Can I count a browning 3006 safari with a Nikon prostaff5 2.5-10-50 as a long range hunting rifle I’ve shot deer at and over 300yds with it does that qualify as long range
Nope.
Nope to what kind sir
Well, it may not qualify as “long range”, but it qualifies as a good shot
Yes the bushnell legend ultra hd has been discontinued I got all mine before bushnell made the changes haven’t tried any of ther new models yet but seen some good reviews on them Bushnell has been around selling rifle scopes for a long time some are good some not as good but anything from the legend or above are fantastic rifle scopes for a type of shooting or hunting
Oldmarine >>> GO I know you like your Bushnell scope but you should know that they make a lot of good scopes but the one that is favored by many Long Range shooters is the Elite Tactical XRS 4.5 – 30x50mm at $2,299.99. It has been a favorite at many Long Range National Matches and is quite unique for a 2nd FFP scope. But for the average guy that is more that they make in a month. Bushnell makes 10 different lines of scopes and some are reasonably priced but some are OTL or OOL prices. I have two bushnell… Read more »
Thanks for ur long thought out response but really I don’t care for long range shooting I buy box of 20 and it may last me a couple years but pray for me a good season so I’ll have to buy a few boxes wen season is over thanks
Thanks for ur long thought out response but really I don’t care for long range shooting I buy box of 20 and it may last me a couple years but pray for me a good season so I’ll have to buy a few boxes wen season is over thanks whitetail deer hunting is what we do
Thanks sir but my grandad would roll over in his grave if he knew I was shooting at something more than twice and couldn’t eat it we eat what we shoot and targets aren’t very tasty last time I tried
Don’t have experience in Burris scope only have used their steel scope rings several times with great success their my rings of choice on my hunting rifles
I speak a lot about my legend ultra hd 3-9-50 deer hunting rifle scope but it’s not the only scope I have just for it’s claity and rugged durability I just love this scope by Bushnell it’s really that good
I don’t really care to much for Burris or vortex got a cousin that shoots both that’s only experience I have with either think I’ll stay with nikon and Bushnell never a problem that couldn’t be fixed lol
Oldmarine >>> Elton P. Green Good Info both on the scopes and the Ammo. I have one of my Shepherd scopes mounted on a M1A1 that gives me 90 more MOA of elevation for about 1500 yds. I carried a M1 Garand for many years and got used to shooting with it in latter years. After a couple of clips it would heat up and start to wonder around the target, At that time the 30-06 Ammo was probably the most readily available but that changed after the NAM I just got my first Stag AR10 in 7.62 x51 but… Read more »
SSG or Mr. Green: I never had the opportunity to do any shooting at altitudes you mentioned, however I did do a fair amount of 1000 yard shooting at USMC Quantico, Camp Perry and Stone Bay, as a civilian competitor with both the Garand and Model 70 Winchester rifles. In the Garand, for long range shooting, I used 190 grain Winchester bullets in my own handloads, with what was likely to much 4895, Match brass and Winchester primers. Later on, with the Model 70, post 1964, I used both 190 grain Winchester and 180 grain Sierra,Matchking bullets with 4350 powder,… Read more »
You have a great resume I give u because u have earned it my respect sir Happy accurate shooting
You guys on here quite often see me talk a lot bout the Bushnell Legend Ultra hd3-9-50 it’s not the best rifle scope out there but for the money it’s hard to beat.im a deer hunter come from a long family of the same we just try to doit good as economically as we can and the legend is a great start for that quest. All u big money guys out here try one out if ur like me deer hunting is what do and love. Just wanted to get that out ther for u guys on a budget to… Read more »
BTW – I did not realize Don Burris had originally worked for Redfield (Colorado) – – a scope I always admired. Thanks – and am taking a hard look at Burris scopes. For the money – also like Nikon – and Vortex – and of course – Leupold’s entry level – models – but am willing to spend up to $1,000 on new glass for the Weatherby 6.5-300.
You can spend 1000, go with German glass.The difference is like turning the light switch on and off.Steiner,Zeiss am few others you can get one for that or tad more.You will never regret it
For the money, im using a zeiss conquest on my 270, i have a Leopold mark 4 on my built 308 which ive had out a short distance of 600 yards, nothing to impressive. But what i will say, the money i spent on my Leopold, i could have purchased 3 more zeiss conquests for, i also own a couple of vortex scopes. What I’m getting at here is that buy a scope just my manufacturer or price alone makes no difference, my zeiss has the best clarity of all of my scopes, the vortex id rate as my number… Read more »
Clint,
I had two of those Zeiss Conquest scopes. I regret parting with them. You’re right about their clarity. They truly are superb scopes priced very reasonably.
My entry level experience with leupold was with the 3-9-50 rifleman hated it got rid of it had to have turrets I could hear and feel got 3-9-50 leupold freedom a little better with turrets that work I would never have another rifleman my feelings on them is ther a post opinion if turrets done make a sound ther worn out how then do uno wen they are worn out
If the Bushnell 3-9 x 40 (or 50?) – is a very good scope – especially for the $ – under
$200 – what about the 4.5-30 x 50 Aargon Elite – for $799 or so at Optics Planet? https://www.opticsplanet.com/reviews/reviews-bushnell-4-5-30×50-matte-30mm-argon-elite-riflescope-mildot.html
I have already stated in earlier post that I hate the leupold rifleman pos would never own another
Just for the record leupold is way over priced scopes today are just as good maybe better don’t waste time and dollars on one Bushnell will not let u down Nikon has great glass for me I really like the Bushnell legendif u can find one ther superb rifle scopes for bout all hunting needs get out ther and try one ur gonna love it
Nikon will fog ,I tried one side by side the Leopold stayed clear I returned the Nikon, bushnell never has had one worth bringing home
I have all 3 scopes bushy Legend nikon pstaff5 leupold freedom and it’s my least favorite really I prefer the Bushnell legend ultra hd 3-9-50 it’s mounted on a browning safari 3006 man what a great combo and my nikons are crystal clear no fog at all
Oldmarine >>> Tony Peterson That’s Funny because there an awful lot of Bushnell scopes at International Long Range Matches. Elite Tactical XRS 4.5-30X 50mm is favored over manny of the high end scopes but you have to pay $2,299.99 to own one. I won’t down talk a scope mfg because I’m always surprised. The very first scope I used was a TASCO on an old bolt .22 and found it was very good at hunting rabbits and squirrels. Used for four years and never let me down once. Bushnell makes a lot of good scopes you just don’t know about… Read more »
I’ve never had a Nikon fog and Bushnell makes some of the best scopes in the world I got a leupold freedom 3-9-50 prolly will never mount it on a rifle my legend is just as clear as the luppy my Nikons are also clear never had fog even in cold drizzling conditions maybe ur mistaken get a used legend u will be impressed
The only difference in the Elite and a legend is the Argo which is better for moister but for the money u can’t beat a legend I love mine very durable and extremely accurate on my deer rifles
That’s ur preference u can spend big dollars or u can get the same good quality that will last a long time and save money now and get a legend but for the money there’s no difference between the elites and the legends for the money I prefer the legend basically have the same warranty if u ever need it that’s ur personal call at how u want to deal with that talk to Bushnell they will help u make the rite decision and save u money
Like I’ve said Bushnell has some great rifle scopes $799 is still a lot to spend on a tite budget pound ebay get a used 50mm legend u will never look back
$799 is a lot to spend wen u don’t have to for me the legend wins again
The magic in what u said is $200 compared $799 argon is the only difference between the legend ultra hd and the elite my dollars go for the legend for my hunting rifle thanks
$799 or $200 decide ur budget my dollars go to $200 r so Argo isn’t necessary for a deer hunting rifle scope my opinion give me yours
The good reputation of Leupold is on the line with those pos rifleman rifle scopes had one it totally sucked traded it for a freedom so far it’s ok but my favorite is the very affordable Bushnell Legend Ultra hd in 3-9-50 for a hunting rifle scope it’s very good enuff said bout the legend except to say it compared very close to my 2.5-10-50 Nikon Monarch I cant say anything bad about Bushnell Legend Ultra hd rifle scope they are bad ass and stay zeroed also just about can’t beat them for a hunting rifle scope get one u… Read more »
@GO, I can not agree with your statement about Leupold’s reputation being on the line with the Rifleman series. That is Leupold’s entry level scope series. And the Leupolds VX Freedom series is supposed to replace the VX 1-3 series.
Correct and I hate the rifleman I’m old skool when ur turrets freely turn their worn out how do uno wen they really are worn out that’s just me leupold confirmed to it wud be ok but again I’m old skool wouldn’t trust it got rid of it and will try the freedom so far all is ok
I have a 3-9-50 leupold freedom so for its ok but for the dollars u can save them and do just as well my legend beats them all side by side except Nikons monarch line I have one in the 2.8-10-50 my legends glass compares close to it again I say the Bushnell legend ultra hd is a superb affordable rifle scope
I’m sorry ther sir but leupold has run the hunting rifle scopes for a long time u can get just as good r better if u look Bushnell has some great scopes don’t forget nikon some of the prostaffs all of the monarchs r better than a leupold I have a legend for its clarity it can’t be beat on a 308 hunting rifle my first leupold was a rifleman 3-9-50 got rid of it fast didn’t trust what they call friction turrets got a freedom 3-9-50 not mounted yet may never but it does seem better than the rifleman… Read more »
The elites are great rifle scopes but the legend is just as good for less dollars and they have the same Bullet proof warranty I have a couple legends 1 Elite Nikon Monarch leupold freedom a few Buckmasters old and new their all great scopes but I really like the 3-9-50 legend for the warrantyand the money can’t beat it
For hunting, I think it’s tough to beat Nikon’s BDC reticle scopes. They have been around a long time for a reason. Dial in your rilfe, scope, and ammo using Spot On and you have your holdover’s set. A great reticle for hunters and I have been successful on many shots to 600 yards on deer sized game using my Nikon BDC reticle scopes. I do get that it’s not for everyone, but if you use a rangefinder and know distances of landmark’s, you can be successful.
I have a Nikon Buckmaster that failed on the second rage trip. Shots climbed off the target while the elevation know was turned all the way down. Nikon’a warranty repairs are complex. I’m not happy.
Sorry for ur mishap with Nikon I had a 2.5-10-50 prostaff5 Gail Nikon replaced it with no problems once they confirmed the scope wouldn’t hold its zero job well done Nikon
I’ve never had a problem with nikons warranty on any scope I’ve ever sent back a little slower in the process than I would like but again it is what it is nikon has a great rifle scope got monarch Buckmasters old and new several prostaffs all are great deer hunting rifle scopes
Was that the old Buckmasters r them pos Buckmasters 2 I’ve got couple of them not real Impressed with them guess ther worth nikons warranty Nikon been good to me wen I had a problem but my only problem with Nikon was with a 2.5-10-50 prostaff5 that wouldn’t hold its zero Nikons warranty is great as they say
For hunting the becareful gets in my way I’ve had them and sent them back to nikon never shot one r tried to site one I don’t like the box reticle I prefer a solid duplex glass but Nikon quality is great except the Buckmasters 2 ther sort of cheap and the glass isn’t as good as some other scopes in ther same price range older Simmons rifle scopes r good example Aetec 44mag any new prostaff by nikon is great
I like to hunt and wen I do I want to see only target and my crosshairs nikons BDC is in my way had them got one Buckmasters 3-9-40 on a 22 not real impressed with that type of reticle
Not being a nasty person but I really don’t care for nikons bdc had a few buckmasters2 wen they came out had one prostaff5 with bdc really didn’t care for it in my hunting scope I prefer just a simple duple,for me the duplex is all I need a good zero on a hunting rifle it shouldn’t be very much hold over just aim and shoot deer in the freezer done
I personally don’t care for any of nikons bdc reticle guess ther good maybe it’s just me
Oh yes – somebody else kindly recommended another quality scope – that I have to find again. 🙂
For Georgia: What do you suggest for a combo hunting-long range target scope – for $1,000 or so. I am looking at a Vortex Viper and the new? Leopold 3xiii or some such – in powers 3.5 to 15 or so.
Save ur money get a Bushnell Legend Ultra hd3-9-50 & I promise you will never look back it’s a fantastic rifle scope for the money
If u have followed any of my posts u wud c I really love the Bushnell Legend Ultra hd in 3-9-50 it’s affordable extremely accurate for any rifle hunting one may come across I’ve got several top knotch rifle scopes but the legend just stays dear to my heart
A Ruger American 308 and Bushnell Legend Ultra hd 3-9-50 will take to an easy 900yds for around a $1000 or so you will not be disappointed in its results
Sightron SIII scopes are great. Great turrets and repeatability. Quality glass. If you have the cash try one. You will not be disappointed.
Get u a good 308 rifle and a Bushnell legend ultra hd 3-9-50 and I promise if ur a hunter u will never regret it I promise and I don’t even know who u r but I do no for hunting purposes the legend is hard to beat
Bushnell no longer makes the legend ultra hd rifle scope but if u want one hound ebay u can find one not a big fan of Leupolds and no experience with vortex I’m kinda simple like to save $ anywhere I can and still get best quality for my money no more legends new but Bushnell claims what they replaced them with r just as good can’t recall the name of ther New series if interested u can check them out
I don’t shoot long range I deer hunt I can easily take shots 250 or 300 yds not big in just shooting to hear my rifle make some noise sight it shoot at deer r pigs that’s all we do
Nikon has some new prostaffs that are pretty good rifle scopes certainly worth a look. Bushnell does have some crap but from the legend and above their pretty solid rifle scopes at descent prices worth checking them out if ur in saving money for a good product hope it helps
Guys&Gals I’ve deer hunted all my life and I have several rifle scopes from leupold to to Bushnell and Nikon I have a brand new leupold freedom several nikons it’s best being a Nikon prostaff5 2-5-10-50 my absolute best rifle scope is a Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 3-9-50 it’s more clear and durable feeling than any rifle scope I have can anyone explain to me why if Bushnell is supposed to be a Cheap low quality rifle scope why does it win in every bracket against all these other rifle scopes this leupold legend ultra hd 3-9-50 is a very… Read more »
Smed – missed that you had already posted the Wikipedia article on long range sniper snots. And one of the best books ever on sniping – is by “White Feather” – AKA – Marine Sgt Carlos Hathcock – 93 CONFIRMED KILLS . Loved his story about slowly crawling for a day through the tall grass (he had to let the grass spring back up behind him to not show/leave a trail) – and having a snake slither over him – to finally get in position to shoot a VC General at 800 yards (with his trusty 30.06) – and then… Read more »
This article reports the longest Military Sniper shot – was by a Canadian – using a MacMillan TAC 50.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/article/40381047/a-canadian-sniper-breaks-the-record-for-the-longest-confirmed-kill-shot—but-how
Thank you Old Marine. Will definitely check out Shepard – Salvo scopes.
on the Winchester web site shows that Carlos use a match grade win 70 cal 308 maybe be it’s wrong maybe right.
I have to find the book. Thought he said it was a 30.06 – at least some of the time.
The 308 is never wrong
went to Winchester page & Carlos used a mact grade win 70 308
According to Wikipedia and Winchester Guns, Carlos Hathcock used a Winchester M70 in 30-06. Neither article mentions anything about tuning the rifles, but since Hathcock used a Winchester Model 70 target rifle to win the Wimbledon Match (1,000-yards shooting – not tennis, although that might be fun) in 1965, it’s probable that Marine armorers at Marine Base Quantico tuned his rifle.
I would have bet money that Butch was right about the 308! The M40, based on the Remington 700, as adopted by the Corps in 1966 used the 308, so that’s probably the confusion.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Hathcock#Weaponry
https://www.winchesterguns.com/news/articles/winchester-model-70-in-vietnam.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M40_rifle
OK – my latest “dream” is a Weatherby Vanguard in 6.5 300. Smoking hot – 3,550 fps? – 140 g – and shoots flat. Do I really need to become a 1,000 yard shooter at 71 years of age? My wife would say NO – but don’t think she looks in my gun safe very much. 🙂 Pair it up with a decent scope (relatively inexpensive) – maybe from Vortex and have a 1.000 yard rig for under $1,000.
Old Marine >>> Tom Schiff I noticed that you might be looking for ” A decent scope (relatively inexpensive)” I tend to favor scope line that is becoming bigger every day. ” Shepherd Scopes ” is now run by Salvo Technologies With production in Florida and headquarters in Nebraska. They have the only double reticle scopes that are perfect for shooting at unknown ranges. I found out about them when researching Big Game Hunting in AFRICA. There reputation is very good with Military, Law enforcement and Industry. They are very large company operating in many countries and are very innovative… Read more »
Thanks for the scope suggestion!
My recommended scope for big game rifles is a very affordable accurate hunting rifle called the Bushnell ultra hd 3-9-50 it’s a very durable accurate hunting rifle for all my hunting needs just a thot if not interested that’s ok just my 2cents have a good day
OldMarine, I thoroughly agree. I have five of these scopes, four of the P model 3X10’s and one V1 6X18. Two are mounted on .300 winchester Magnums, two are on 30-06s and one is on a Remington CDL in 35 Whelen. They do exactly what they are advertised to do, and I have shot them from every distance out to 1,000 yards in the .300 Winmag, and in the Whelen. I have become a regular at the range here near Colorado Springs so I can practice out to 600 yards with my Shepherd scopes and rifles on steel in windy… Read more »
why list the 338 lapula my 338-378 weatherby out performs it in fps and energy ? 338 lapula everyone wants they like the hype 2 many monkey see monkey do people who dont do research and just want the pick of the day from what they hear from others .
People probably chase the 338 Lapua instead of similar, existing cartridges for the same reasons they ignore the Remington 260, Lapua 6.5×47, or 6.5×55 Swedish Mauser in favor of the 6.5 Creedmoor. There is the “Me too” mentality, but then there are people like me.
I grudgingly bought a 6.5cm because it is the de-facto standard for 6.5mm, short action cartridges. Equipment and components are available in Creedmoor that were never available in my preferred 260, and I know the market is too small for multiple standards. Success breeds success.
You’re right to some extent, however, the 338 Lapua, 6.5 Creedmoor and the .300 Winchester Magnum have all been adopted by either the U.S. Army, or the U.S. Marine Corps and various Spec-ops groups as sniping rounds at this time, supplanting the 7.62 X 51 NATO or augmenting it. Whenever the military adopts a cartridge, its probably going to do well, whether it is the best for its job or simply ‘good enough’. That’s about all that needs to happen for a cartridge to become popular.
Elton P. Green, SSG
USA, INF., (Ret.)
Didn’t military snipers use .338 Lapua to make the longest recorded kill shots?
It looks like most long-range military snipers used a 50 BMG, but there’s at least Lapua 338.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longest_recorded_sniper_kills
I think the big difference here is BC of the cartridges listed along with twist rate. There are other hammers but these stay supersonic past 1000 yds and have very little wind drift / drop at distance.
Lynn, You’re correct. The 338-378 holds more powder than the 338 Lapua. It is easy to get Lapua components because it’s adopted by the military. I can add that It is also exceptionally accurate. Not that the Weatherby isn’t, Weatherbys, I’ve owned five over the years, are generally very accurate. I don’t have experience with the 338-378 just 300 Wby and 340 Wby. but I do with the Lapua. The 338-378 requires a muzzle brake at all times it seems (I may be wrong) but I’m able to shoot my Lapua standing without a brake, it kicks but is quite… Read more »
I’ll put my tried and true Marlin 3030 and Federal Fusion 130gr against anything mentioned here at 1000yards. But I will need time to walk the first 925 yards.
What u claiming to do with that 3030 I no ther good accurate hunting rifles my cousin shot one out to of a dead pine bout 200yds with one shot he also shot several deer over 200yds but I don’t understand what ur gonna do with urs
Lol my cousin shot several deer over 200yds and once he shot a crow out top of a dead pine bout 300yds with one shot for a bet between 2young boys just out having a good time so yes the marlin 3030 is pretty accurate for shooting and hunting
With the leverlution Hornady ammo I can shoot s whole box at 400y steel sitting or standing.its a game changer for that old Marlin
Lol
Lol don’t get tired of all the walking
Funny but 3030 is Great hunting rifle my cousin has shot several deer over 200yds once he shot a crow out top a dead pine like 250yds across a clear cut propped on cab my truck and shot him just to see he could hit him that was with 3030 marlin lever action 150gr winchester store bout cartridges
All calibers mentioned would do the job.It’s like the old saying,opinions are like assholes,everyone has one,including me.I’ll take a 308 Norma Mag over 300 mag.As far as the 6.5 creedmoor,don’t know what all the fascination is with it,unless it is just saying a fancy name. You already have the 260rem that will probably out do it.They are almost identical. You could have put any of the RUMS in this category.So I think it is personal choice and what you can afford
Annnnd, they all just got blasted out of the water by 375 spinnela, 400 grain pill, pushed by 200 grains of powder, muzzle velocity of 3300 feet per second, necked down 50 BMG case. Heres the big number. Goes transonic at 3800 yards.
Yup – You win…
Agree! Hey Caleb from 45Freak.
No hell yea’s yet a nd to keep the 3006 safari in tact I need as many as possible to confirm the 3006 is awesome brobama totally sucked as his job as president of the United States of America glad he and his Secretary of State shcrillary clinton are gon the both are very bad for these United States of America glad ther gone hopefully forever
30-06 and 308 are the go-to general purpose rounds in my area. They aren’t the best for anything, but they’re good at just about everything. If I could only have two rifles, one would be a .22lr and the other would be a 30-06 or a .308.
We have all 3 not a big deal
Watched a video yesterday of a guy in Logan, Utah – (Thompson Long Range?) – who precisely mounts scopes for long range shooting — and then has the rifle fired to check it all out – as well as taking the client out to shoot at 1,000 yard targets.. Thinking of the relatively inexpensive ($650?) Weatherby Vanguard – in 6.5 Weatherby 300 – which does not seem to kick much. A 140 grain bullet comes out screaming at around 3,550 fps – and still has 1,200 ft lbs of energy at 900 yards – ‘enuff for a Deer – assuming… Read more »
I used to think that home was a city, but a visit to Chicago made my small town look much better. For accuracy, I prefer a short action for the little bit of extra rigidity. I don’t know how that transfers to magnum actions since the match shooting I’ve done up until now meant 40-60 rounds per match, and two matches a day in tournaments. The most powerful cartridge any of us used was 7-08, and the current trend is to 6cm or 6×47 Lapua. Granted, our longest range was 500 meters, but it was offhand so it may still… Read more »
You mean 6mm, not cm. 6 cm is 2.36 inches……..
Nope, I meant 6cm, as in Creedmoor. It is a 6mm bullet in a necked down 6.5cm (Creedmoor, not centimeter) care. Not sure what’s wrong with a 243, but – as Georgiaoutlaw points out – I am lost.
He is so lost
What is it I said that concerns you I’m interested can’t rememberwhat I might have said thanks