300 PRC Review – Ballistics and Comparisons
When Hornady launched the 300 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) in the Fall of 2018, I claimed that it was “about to be the hottest new cartridge, especially in long-range shooting and hunting circles… the world just doesn’t know it yet.” Was I right? Read on to read our 300 PRC review and decide about the cartridge for yourself.
300 PRC Specs
- Bullet Diameter 0.308″
- Parent Case 375 Ruger
- Cartridge Length (Max) 3.7″
- Case Length 2.58″
- Head Diameter 0.532″
- Bolt Face Diameter 0.540
- Shoulder Angle 30 degrees
- Bullets ELD-X | ELD Match
- Bullet Weight 212gr | 225gr
- Muzzle Velocity (fps) 2860 | 2810
- Energy (ft/lbs) 3850 | 3945
- Ballistic Coeffecient (G1) 0.673 | 0.777
- Ballistic Coefficient (G7) 0.336 | 0.391
.300 Precision Rifle Cartridge Background
The 300 PRC is effectively a name brand for the 30-375R cartridge. To make the 300 Precision Rifle Cartridge, Hornady took the 375 Ruger Compact Magnum and necked it down to accept a 30 caliber bullet.
This provides some great advantages – good enough to make me an absolute fan of the 300 Precision Rifle Cartridge.
As you’ll see below, I typically avoid new cartridge offerings as many end up being just a fad that don’t really offer more than another similar cartridge already offers. However, modern cartridge and bullet design has come a long way.
Namely, modern cartridge design has helped to develop cartidges that shoot well in a variety of rifles/chambers with better shoulder angles, neck lengths, and bullet seating options (how far the bullet sticks out of the case). Modern long range bullet designs have much higher ballistic coefficients (their relative efficiency moving through the air) which often result in longer and sometimes heavier projectiles.
To get the best performance out of these new bullets, they usually need to stick further out of the case which often exceeds the overall lengths allowed by older cartridges. Therefore, to push these new bullets to their potential, a larger case is sometimes needed for more powder and a new chambering must be established to allow for the longer overall length.
The long range shooting community, in particular the military/tactical community has been chasing the great performance characteristics of high ballisitc coefficient 30 caliber projectiles as a great balance of aerodynamic performance, effect on target, and recoil.
As an example, some in the tactical shooting community have started to adopt the 30 caliber bullet of the 300 Norma and use it in lieu of the larger and long-used 338 Lapua Mag.
According to inside sources at Hornady, one of their motivations for coming to market with the 300 PRC was to avoid the unsafe conditions presented by the 300 Norma when shooting at angles. Apparently, the load density of the 300 Norma resulted in some inconsistent pressures.
300 PRC Review – Our Take
The 300 PRC is a relatively new cartridge and I fell in love with it on some long-range testing and subsequent elk hunt before the cartridge was officialy released.
Now, to be fair, I regularly warn against adopting the latest new “fad” cartridge. After all, there’s always a new cartridge coming out that promises to do what no other cartridge has done before. Usually, the claims are true (mostly), but I rarely think it is worth chasing the newest thing.
First, you could be an early adopter only to have the cartridge fade away and you’re left with a rifle for which you can’t find ammunition.
Or, if there is ammo available, it’s expensive and hard to find. I’m a big fan of using a cartridge that can easily be found at a local sporting goods store – you never know when you’ll be at a shooting match or on a hunt and need more ammo (thanks for losing my ammo, TSA).
When the 300 Norma came out, I was outspoken about questioning whether it was smart for the military to adopt it for the ASR program. Part of my concern was that it might have been a new “fad cartridge,” the other part was that I didn’t think there were enough performance benefits to outweigh the giant 338 Lapua-sized action needed (especially when other calibers where fairly close in performance…e.g. 30 Nosler).
Also, even the 6.5 Creedmoor which has well proven its worth, didn’t win me over until recently. Finally, I’m solidly on the 6.5 Creedmoor bandwagon!
So, why do I think that the 300 PRC is going to be a winner? Essentially, it is the next step up from the 6.5 Creedmoor in design and performance and it resolves issues with other similar cartridges without any of the negatives of the 300 Norma.
There’s a good reason that the 6.5 Creedmoor is the darling of many long range shooters (and now adopted by SOCOM). It takes advantage of some ideal dimensions of the 6.5mm bullet and newer offerings offering high ballistic coefficients and its case design allows it to be accurate in many factory rifles. Also, it is a convenient balance of performance and recoil in a short-action.
The easiest way I can explain (perhaps by over-simplifying) is to say that the 300 PRC is effectively a larger 6.5 Creedmoor. Proportionaly, it shares similar dimensions (shoulder angle, case to overall length ratio, etc.) and achieves great performance of a new modern bullet design while balancing recoil and rifle size.
The 300 Norma handily beats the 300 PRC on ballistic performance. This is becuase it can shoot the same or similar bullet faster. However, this comes at a cost. The 300 Norma requires the same XL-sized action as the 338 Lapua Mag because of its large cartridge case and it recoils more than the 300 PRC.
Why do action size and recoil matter to the tactical long range shooter?
Let me go back to the 6.5 Creedmoor example for a minute… The 6.5 Creedmoor effectively the same trajectory as the 300 Win Mag out to 1,200 yards. So, why is it MUCH more popular today for long range shooting than the 300 Win Mag?
First, the 6.5 Creedmoor is designed for a short-action rifle wich means a shorter bolt throw (length of operation of the bolt) and, the barrel and stock being equal, a lighter and shorter rifle making it easier to carry and operate. It also means smaller (and lighter) magazines which are easy to manipulate and allow someone to carry lighter ammunition in a smaller container.
Sure, the 300 Win Mag could have just been necked-down to accept these newer effecient 6.5 mm bullets (there are a few artridges out there that do this) but you’d be stuck with the same sized action and bolt and more recoil. If this was ok with most people, the 6.5 Creedmoor wouldn’t have taken off like it has because the bigger version would clearly have better ballisitic performance.
Now back to the 300 Norma Mag. Again, it clearly outperforms the 300 PRC. However, for me at least, I like the 300 PRC for many of the same reasons I like the 6.5 Creedmoor.
The 300 Norma Mag is a result of necking down the 338 Norma Mag to accept a 30 caliber bullet. And the 338 Norma Mag is a very efficient cartridge that was designed as an improvement over the 338 Lapua Mag with an efficient case design and the ability to stick longer efficent 338 bullets further out of the case with the same overall length.
The 300 Norma Mag, therefore, shoots a smaller bullet than the 338 Lapua Mag out of the same sized action and bolt. In a very crude analogy (for which I’m sure I’ll receive plenty of comments below), the 300 Norma Mag is like my example above of redesigning a 300 Win Mag sized cartridge to shoot the more efficient 6.5 mm bullet. Sure, it’ll outperform the 6.5 Creemoor but you’d be stuck with the same sized action and more recoil.
As a military sniper, if I’ve got to carry the same sized and weight rifle, I’d rather have bigger perfomance. If I’m shooting a smaller bullet, give me a smaller rifle.
The 300 PRC, much like the 6.5 Creedmoor, allows for a smaller and lighter action (and thereby rifle) with less recoil. It also allows for smaller magazines and lighter ammunition. For many (me included) this is worth having less than maximum performance out of a particular bullet.
Lighter rifles and ammunition means that a soldier can carry more ammo further. Lighter recoil means that a shooter, no matter how tough you are, can shoot more with less risk of flinching.
If you’d rather have the max performance possible then you likely don’t agree with me. I just ask you this: If ultimate performance is all that matters (foregoing weight, size, and recoil), why stop at 300 Norma Mag? Why not go for an even larger cartridge and action that pushed the same bullet even faster?
In my experience, the 300 PRC is a perfect blend of size and performance. The testing I conducted resulted in excellent results that make me a big fan of the cartridge.
But, enough about my opinions, let’s look at the raw ballistics.
300 PRC Ballistics
The SAAMI spec drawings note that the 300 PRC will be able to push a 225 grain bullet at 2,800 fps.
At the range, I shot Hornady TAP Precision 300 PRC 225gr ELD Match ammunition. Using my Lab Radar doppler chronograph (this thing is absurdly awesome), I measured a consistent 2840 fps out of a 24 inch barrel on my Barrett MRAD.
Frank Green of Bartlein Barrels says that 2,900 fps is easily attainable with 225gr bullets from a 26″ barrel.
As a note, Bartlein arguably makes the BEST barrels available. If you’re in the market, you can snag a Bartlein barrel at Brownells.
Based on the results, the performance of the 300 PRC bridges the gap between the 338 Lapua and the 300 Norma.
This was very interesting to us – the 338 Lapua was the king of long range tactical shooting and the 300 Norma took off as a lighter and faster bullet out of the same case.
As I’ve noted above, I am not a fan of the 300 Norma. Sure, it has awesome ballistics on paper, but it requires the XL action of the 338 Lapua and it’s not that much better than alternatives (but it is “better”).
Enter the 300 PRC.
As you can see from the chart below, it has better energy on target and drops less than the 338 Lapua Mag past 1,000 yards and it recoils a LOT less.
It is also a much smaller cartridge so it’s easier to carry and the rifle can be smaller and lighter. Also note that although the 300 Norma out performs the 300 PRC, it’s not by much.
I’ll take the 300 PRC any day over the 300 Norma. Note how the 300 PRC (red line) is in-between the 338 Lapua (green line) and the 300 Norma (blue line) in performance (and is slightly closer to the 300 Norma). It does all this in a smaller and lighter recoiling package.
Want the absolute best performance? Get the 300 Norma or one of the rounds that outperforms it.
But, want a great balance of everything? I’m loving the 300 PRC. In the graph below, the solid lines are the ballistic path (drop) and the dashed lines are the energy.
Green = 338 Lapua Mag Red = 300 PRC Blue = 300 Norma
Here’s some data on a 225 grain Berger Hybrid bullet traveling 2900 fps out of the 300 PRC:
| Range (yards) | Drop (in) | Drop (moa) | Drop (mrad) | Wind. (in) | Wind. (moa) | Wind. (mrad) | Veloc. (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Time (sec) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | -1.50 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 2905 | 4027 | 0.00 |
| 100 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.00 | 2770 | 3663 | 0.11 |
| 200 | -3.03 | -1.45 | -0.42 | 0.14 | 0.07 | 0.02 | 2639 | 3325 | 0.22 |
| 231 | -5.03 | -2.07 | -0.60 | 0.22 | 0.09 | 0.03 | 2599 | 3222 | 0.25 |
| 300 | -11.06 | -3.52 | -1.02 | 0.48 | 0.15 | 0.04 | 2512 | 3011 | 0.33 |
| 400 | -24.59 | -5.87 | -1.71 | 1.19 | 0.28 | 0.08 | 2388 | 2721 | 0.46 |
| 500 | -44.23 | -8.45 | -2.46 | 2.40 | 0.46 | 0.13 | 2267 | 2453 | 0.58 |
| 600 | -70.64 | -11.24 | -3.27 | 4.30 | 0.69 | 0.20 | 2150 | 2207 | 0.72 |
| 700 | -104.58 | -14.27 | -4.15 | 7.10 | 0.97 | 0.28 | 2037 | 1981 | 0.86 |
| 800 | -146.89 | -17.53 | -5.10 | 11.01 | 1.31 | 0.38 | 1927 | 1773 | 1.02 |
| 900 | -198.58 | -21.07 | -6.13 | 16.32 | 1.73 | 0.50 | 1820 | 1581 | 1.18 |
| 1000 | -260.77 | -24.90 | -7.24 | 23.25 | 2.22 | 0.65 | 1716 | 1406 | 1.35 |
| 1100 | -334.79 | -29.06 | -8.45 | 31.85 | 2.76 | 0.80 | 1614 | 1244 | 1.53 |
| 1200 | -422.17 | -33.59 | -9.77 | 42.09 | 3.35 | 0.97 | 1516 | 1096 | 1.72 |
| 1300 | -524.71 | -38.54 | -11.21 | 53.95 | 3.96 | 1.15 | 1420 | 962 | 1.92 |
| 1400 | -644.54 | -43.96 | -12.79 | 67.37 | 4.60 | 1.34 | 1327 | 840 | 2.14 |
| 1500 | -784.18 | -49.92 | -14.52 | 82.27 | 5.24 | 1.52 | 1237 | 731 | 2.38 |
| 1600 | -946.62 | -56.50 | -16.43 | 98.54 | 5.88 | 1.71 | 1152 | 634 | 2.63 |
| 1645 | -1029.93 | -59.75 | -17.38 | 106.43 | 6.17 | 1.80 | 1117 | 595 | 2.75 |
| 1700 | -1135.29 | -63.77 | -18.55 | 115.95 | 6.51 | 1.89 | 1082 | 559 | 2.90 |
| 1800 | -1353.61 | -71.81 | -20.89 | 134.03 | 7.11 | 2.07 | 1043 | 519 | 3.18 |
| 1900 | -1604.00 | -80.62 | -23.45 | 152.41 | 7.66 | 2.23 | 1014 | 490 | 3.47 |
| 2000 | -1888.38 | -90.16 | -26.23 | 170.93 | 8.16 | 2.37 | 989 | 466 | 3.77 |
| Range | Drop | Drop | Drop | Wind. | Wind. | Wind. | Veloc. | Energy | Time |
I shot 6.9 Mils up from my 100 yard zero for this 1,000 yard group from my Barrett MRAD (it’s a phenomenal rifle see our MRAD review):
So, why get a new caliber for essentially a few percentage points better performance than the 300 Win Mag? Great question. I loathe belted magnums. It may not be a real issue to have a belt on a cartridge, but it is definitely a perceived one that I don’t like.
Also, the length of the 300 Win Mag case as compared to its overall length doesn’t allow for longer/higher BC bullets to be loaded out as far as they like to be. The 300 PRC, on the other hand, is a non-belted magnum that can push the same weight bullets slightly faster without reaching dangerous pressures. Also, the cartridge design is begging for the high ballistic coefficient bullets that will stick out longer due to their longer sleeker design. Not sure what ballistic coefficient is or why it matters? You should check out a copy of the bestselling Long Range Shooting Handbook!
Even though the 300 PRC is fairly close to another cartridges, it is superbly accurate by design. In this way, it is much like its little brother, the 6.5 Creedmoor. The case dimensions and chamber are just begging for accuracy. If you can see a reason to chose the 6.5 Creedmoor over other similar calibers, then the 300 PRC is going to be a great step-up for you. NEW INFORMATION IS COMING IN DAILY ABOUT THIS CARTRIDGE – WATCH THIS SPACE FOR UPDATES!
300 PRC Rifles
More and more manufacturers are adopting the 300 PRC – this is great news for the cartridge!
The first rifle (we know of) in 300 PRC was the Barrett MRAD. However, Ruger now offers a Ruger Precision Rifle in 300 PRC, Bergara offers 4 models of rifles in 300 PRC, and Christensen Arms and Cooper firearms also offer multiple models in 300 PRC.
For target/range work, we recommend the Barrett MRAD. For hunting, get the Bergara Highlander.
300 PRC Ammo
Hornady currently makes two loads in 300 PRC, a 225gr Match-grade offering and a 215gr Hunting load.
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About Ryan Cleckner
Ryan is a former special operations sniper (1/75 Ranger) and current firearms attorney, firearms industry executive, university lecturer, and bestselling author of the Long Range Shooting Handbook.
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I have the 300 PRC & 300 Win Mag. as well as the 300 RUM & 30 Sherman Magnum. The 300 PRC is a well thought out cartridge and just beats the hell out of the 300 Win Mag.The 300 RUM is top dog of these 4 I’ve mentioned. With the Sherman Mag 2nd & 300 PRC 3rdand 300 Win Mag Sucking Hind Tit.The300 PRC is the easiest to shoot and shoots very well at long distances.
I absolutely love your blog and find most of your post’s very interesting and informative. Thanks for sharing such useful info, and again awesome site!
Is that drop correct? 300 Norma Magnum is -76.70″ @2000 but the 300PRC is -1888.38″?? One of those 2 can’t be right? Thanks!
300NM: https://gununiversity.com/300-norma-mag-ballistics-caliber-comparison/
The drop on the Norma article is MOA not inches. The 300 PRC is 90.16 MOA at 2000.
Absolute fan of the 300 PRC based upon the real, technical, design advantages the cartridge does possess. Interesting to see the comments above, the 338 LM offers great performance with larger bullets…but recognize that a factory produced SAAMI Spec 300 PRC is capable of shooting bullets larger than 225 grains as well…
Nice article. Took everything I could away from it. My Barrett 98B in .300PRC with it’s 26″ barrel length is a tack-driver. Have never compared it to a .300 Norma personally, so I can’t speak to that. I know through my experience that it’s a “better” round in my opinion than anything I’ve ran through my .300WM all the way out to 1500m.
I spoke with the Barrett team before buying my rifle, and at 1000m, the PRC performance is extremely comparable to the Norma – their words, not mine. The new Mk22 in .300 Norma was chosen by the DOD for it’s flatter trajectory at over 1200m AND that it shares the same bolt face with the .338 Norma, which is easier from a field logistics aspect.
My .300 PRC load is a 215 gr Berger Hybrid bullet being pushed by IMR 7977 using ADG brass.
Ignore the haters, that’s why they make Ford, Chevy, and Toyota trucks. To each their own.
Thanks for the article.
– Kevin
USAF
I don’t understand part of the data provided in the chart & datasheet. It looks like the zero is 100 yards, 0.0 in drop. The chart then shows the energy should be around 4761 ft-lbs; however, the datasheet below shows that’s 3663 ft-lbs.
Similarly, the entire column of energy data in the datasheet do not match the graphical data provided in the chart above. Can you provide clarification?
-brian
The 300PRC 225grn. has a (G1).777, a (G7).391. But my Berger 300 win mag 230grn. Hybrid OTM Tactical has a (G1).71, a(G7).364 so where’s the superiority ? All I can see about the 300PRC is it will beat up your shoulder, has’nt caught up let alone surpassed the 300 win mag in BC, is limited in availability and bullet size and type, and finally….the price is just not worth it. Atleast I can get ammo for my 300 win mag on 5 continents or get custom loads made readily because loaders have the equipment. Fooey on 300PRC !
Pretty simple …
To compare one 30 cal cartridge to another 30 cal cartridge for external ballistics purposes, use the exact same bullet loaded to similar % of max pressures. You’ll get same BC and same Weight so it will be all muzzle velocity impacting the ‘external’ ballistics.
To compare a 30 cal cartridge to a 33 cal cartridge for external ballistics purposes, use as close as possible BC bullets … if it isn’t possible or not feasible, then it is a ‘limiting’ factor of either one or the other and should be so noted.
In general, available factory loads should not be a factor as that will change over time … instead – use reloads to the same % of max pressure across all with the bullets selected as above …
Personally, I don’t think the 300 PRC will be to other cartridges what smokeless powder was to black powder (i.e. totally game changing) … that being said, it looks to be a good all-around blend of a number of factors making it the pseudo-equivalent of a Honda Pilot – not the best at anything but very reliable and very good at most everything it is intended to be used for …
Since I have a base level of experience/understanding of accuracy and precision shooting/reloading, I like what I see from this design. But – would I recommend someone dump their winmag for this? no way … but if you don’t yet have a 30 cal magnum and want one … and ESPECIALLY if you are a reloader … this thing shows great promise and perhaps the potential to actually BE the best at what I deem to be the MOST important aspect – accuracy at very reasonable comparison of performance on all other points of comparison …
To the author – you got called out for using dissimilar bullets to make the newbie appear more favorably and it is right for the readers to do so … easy enough to resolve – just load up some like for like and rerun em … it will only further prove the conclusions you’ve made for those who may not understand it … those conclusions being, the external ballistics are not the equal of the Norma but the trade-offs make it a better choice but not enough to warrant dumping an existing platform a shooter has already invested in.
A similar example is 260 remington vs 6.5 creedmoor … the 260 has slightly better external ballistics but the 6.5 creedmoor is more ‘popular’ and has more factory ammo available … but for any shooter – particularly reloaders – they can get more out of their 260 then a 6.5 creed so don’t change. BUT – if just starting into 6.5 cal, the creed has more factory options and current ground swell support …
Personally, while I do enjoy reloading some cartridges more than others, I love shooting all of them … until they thump me back harder than I want …
So – for all of us – let’s keep it both honest AND polite …
By the way – for those that are poo-pooing the 300PRC – google for the 300 Sherman Magnum … you can fire 300PRC in it and then have a 300PRC “Improved” afterwards with ballistics that WILL rival the norma without the safety concerns associated with unfilled case volume leading to higher pressures when fired on a large up or down angle … I WILL be taking off a 300 winmag barrel and replacing it with that …
Objective Observer, very well said.
I just purchased a top of the line 300 PRC by Fierce Firearms. Wish I would have read this as it certainly supports my thoughts. I was going for the 338 Lapua or a 300 RUM. But the build time was too far so the 300 PRC in carbon and titanium fits my bull for an all around rifle from elk to Cape Buffalo. Thanks and although a Swarovski and night force fan went with the new German Zeiss. Let’s see how this does at the long range school as compared to my 7 RUM. I know that the 7 RUM was a fad and the Christensen 7 RUM with the 1 in 10 twist only likes 145 Barnes TSX so it is a case of a great shooter but Ammo from custom folks at 125 a box. So have a 7 RUM going on the market. Great info.
Sgt. Major Boykin
I would like to say first thanks for your service.i needed the tire data about 300 prc will get vergara b 14 hrm for my first ever elk hunt.ammo in short supply?
Oh look at all this cry babies! Take the article for what it is. If you don’t like it write your own!.
I bet Ryan can shoot better than most of you people in here! So stop being butthurt if your caliber that you plug in your ass is not being given a proper recognition. ( might have a smell to it).
Let go and grow!
Nice Job Ryan
I’m a new fan of your pod casts and on the hunt for 300 prc info, I can read your data and decipher it without butt hurtness. LOL
And to offer to add more to it if someone would give you a real request that is coherent, (and then not get any after all the ladies crying) shows your not being paid to be deceitful.
Keep up the good work
Mike
So many butt hurt fools here I’m amazed that their keyboards still work with all the shit their spewing. Don’t like a caliber don’t shoot it. Hell don’t even buy it.
I like guns don’t care what cal they are.
Ryan I really like the article. Everyone forgets my 50 bmg that has a higher ballistic then the 338 Lapua! He was just showing a comparison to show that the little 300 prc isn’t that far behind the big boys. Ease up fellas. I agree with Ryan and the military, I AINT packing the 50 bmg around all day. shoot a freakin missile and be done with it! However for smaller action and non belted cartridge that keeps up… sounds like a decent cartridge to mass produce and keep MOST fellers happy.
Great article, a few good replies, and a lot of dumb ones. Shooters are like Gear Heads, they get defensive about their choice in cars or guns! I have or had 3006, 300Win mag.,300wsm, 300Weath.,300RUM,338Win Mag, 338RUM, and my newest is 300prc in a Seekins Havak Pro 2. Mounted a Nightforce 4X14 SHV and off to the range. Shot 5 rounds to zero factory Hornady 212ELDX and then shot 5-3hot groups at 100 yards. 2 of those groups under .5″ center to center, Average for all 5 groups .72″. Best out of the box for both rifle and ammo I’ve seen in 69 years of hunting and shooting. Todays rifles and ammo show what all these years of development have achieved. By the way, the Seekins is not a custom but a factory produced rifle. You hit the nail on the head!!!
Good comparison as far as I’m concerned. I’m interested in the 300 PRC. Your videos with John Lovell are well worth watching too. Have a great night!
I agree with the article although it doesn’t surprise me how it is upsetting people
Based on the hatred that the 6.5 creedmoor gets from many people. Some people can’t understand anything other than fps.
Ryan this was a great article. It’s sad how so many people can get so emotionally distraught just because you didn’t use the exact ammunition or bullet that they think you should use. I’m curious how many of the commenters that are upset with your writing offered to supply you with ammunition? I’ll guess none. I have a PTG Bomber action that I want to use for a build. I wasn’t sure what cartridge to use it looks like the 300 PRC is just what I was looking for. Thanks for the great article.
Interesting read and the 300 PRC interests me for similar reasons as the 6.5 Creedmoor. Obviously. The smart design gets my vote every time because my prior precision machinist background seems to make me despise wasteful design. Although I’m a hunter at heart and don’t have a lot of need or want to shoot game past the 500 yard mark the 300 PRC makes sense to me simply because this is how all cartridges should e designed. I’m seriously looking at one in a Christensen Arms rifle in the future and I’m happy to see that the brass is very reasonably priced from $38-$50 per 50 ct.
Where is the “hand over face” emoji when you need one. It wasn’t the article for me. It’s the feedback that gets me upset. This dude is trying to show scientific comparisons for your internalized minds to process. While you quickly, outwardly bash it upon grounds of banal minutia. Personalized, preferred crap that you think you know. Here’s a nugget; What you don’t know, is what you don’t know. What you do know, is only what think you know. Gah. quit splitting hairs and listen. The dude can make you a more informed and better shooter.
I agree Andrew. The bashers are just pissed because what they thought was the greatest might not be and now they have to go spend more money. If this cartridge is as advertised, it will take off on its own merits. If not, then it will go the way of the DoDo. Good article nonetheless.
A couple of things to think about. At the time Ryan wrote the article you also need to consider the availability of box ammo and factory chambers which he was shooting when doing your comparisons.
You cannot accurately compare a .300wm to the .300PRC. The WM cannot duplicate what the PRC can do in a factory chamber and box ammo. Guys saying they can push a 215gr. bullet out of the WM at 2900fps….not happening in a factory chamber with out the chamber pressure going crazy high. To even hit 2850fps with the WM your pressure is going to be in the 71k-72k psi range.
Also comparing to the availability at the time of loaded .338 Lapua ammo with 300gr bullets and even now there are not that many available. When you compare box Lapua 300gr. loaded ammo they advertise the velocity at like 2723fps. The PRC with a 225gr Hornady at it’s advertised velocity of 2800fps or in Ryan’s case getting 2840fps. does still shoot a little flatter and bucks the wind just a tad more than the .338 does. Yes the .338 has a little more energy at distance.
Yes recoil is more in the .338 Lapua and .338 Norma. Something to consider.
Also keep in mind that the selection on the ASR spec. (Advanced Sniper Rifle) rifle requirements the .30cal. is the primary target/sniper round and the .338 was regulated to being a payload round and not a primary target/sniper round.
Also as has been pointed out to go to the .338 Lapua/Norma rounds you need a bigger bolt face and bigger receiver diameter etc…using a standard mag. bolt face gives you more options in terms of building/making rifles.
If I missed something earlier please forgive me, but where do you place the 300 RUM in this? Other then a magnum action, what do you see as the or – of the 300 RUM?
Thanks,
Tim / Wisconsin
Isn’t it like a 300 Blaser magnum copy ?
Looks like close to the 30 Boo-Boo too, for those who remember the great hours of this now obscure round ^^
I still not see anything revolutionary in this caliber, just the new hype thing in ELR matches.
A caliber that performs a bit better than an existant one, very close to an other one and slightly less than an other other one …
Great article lots of hard work goes into these articles and it’s appreciated. I personally would rather see a comparison of the 300prc 300win mag 300 Weatherby and the 300rum. All shooting the same pills with their max charge in the same length barrel personally I’d say 26”.
Where does one obtain Hornady TAP Precision 300 PRC 225gr ELD Match? It is not even listed on Hornady LE website.
Hey Ryan, Thanks for the great article! I appreciate the info your sharing. I will start by saying that I’m solidly in the 338 Lapua camp. I understand that there really is no way to compare the two using same bullet weights BUT I would like to see you do a comparison where both cartridges are at the top of their potential by using bullets with high B.C.’s being pushed at their best velocities. For example, test a 300 grain Berger OTM against your 225 grain hornady ELD-M (or whatever). That would show us which performs best at their top potential. and if indeed the 30 PRC beats out the 338 in energy and drop at long distances. Two excellent cartridges at their best would be fair when deciding if I need a New rifle, new dies and time to get everything right
I have found your articles very informative and very helpful in the past. This one left me VERY confused. I can push the 225gr ELD Ms 300 win mag (29″ barrel 1:10 twist) at 2970fps. At a mile I only need 16.2 mils and I stay supersonic to 1900yds. (2970′ elevation) Any monkey I’ve come across can push the same 225gr ELD M (26″ barrel) at 2900fps with any factory Rem700. What in the hell am I missing here? The beltless case? I can load the 225s as long as my pecker (don’t start with the jokes) with no issues on a 300 win mag case. Not trying to be funny here, but what am I missing and what would I gain from a 300 PRC??
I’m looking at getting into Long range shooting and possibly competition shooting as I start to gain understanding of precise long range shooting. However I’m looking to try and start off with a decent rifle I could grow better at the sport with for many years to come. So should I go with the 300 PRC or 300 Norma? I ask because I see everyone saying great things about the new 300 PRC but based on exapected trajectory looks like the Norma would be better.
Good Article Ryan!
I think every cartridge that is not long and heavy for caliber will be redesigned so they can get the fast twist rate and BC advantage, why not, it makes total sense. Next will be the 7mm PRC? I’m ok with it and will add a few guns to the safe over time. If cost is a concern Hornady match grade is around 38$ Hornady 300 Norma is 100$ and Hornady 338 match is around 96$ per 20, that is a huge difference, it won’t take many shots to add up to a new gun in the safe!!. I like the exceptional performance for the $. But I’ll stick with the 6.5 PRC for now.
How does the 300 PRC compare to the 300 RUM?
Ryan, if you know Cartman and are familiar with South Park, you know you are using the Lebron James defense: What should I do? With that said, I can see why Carl was upset, and I can also see why you prefer the PRC. As a military sniper, you dealt with life and death, and the chance of a belted case hanging up and messing up a reload is obviously there. On Carl’s behalf, you used an optimum bullet in the PRC, compared to the sub-optimum in the Lapua, as someone pointed out. Are you also a fan of the 30 Nosler? identical performance and will fit in a standard mag box. Just some things I notice reading through your article and comments, Not that I will run out and buy any of them, I couldn’t hit anything with any of them past 300 yards the way my hands shake!
We ARE talking Rocket Science here.
BULLET: Length, Wt., Design, BC…
CASE: Design affects the way the powder burns, velocity, range, and accuracy…
POWDER: the Perfect amount and Burn Rate to match the case bullet, and barrel length…
We have back yard experts throwing apples and oranges at each other…
Hornady has an R&D team working long hours, day in and day out designing and testing each load with a specific Purpose.
What’s Your Flavor ? Prairie Dogs, Mule Deer, 1600 pound Brown Bear, or Nailing a target out close to 2 miles ?
There is No PERFECT Gun ~
…there’s a Lot of Perfect GUNs.
That’s why gun safes are being made LARGER…
I liked your article, I found it informative. However, I would like to see a comparison of prc vs ultra mag, Just for curiosity. I completely understand the comparison to 338 lapua, huge action and case, vs moderate magnum. I am researching a long range rifle for me and a couple friends, who want the same as I get so we can compare, and some fun competition. So thank you for your perspective.
Ryan,
I appreciate the article and effort it took to make it. I am using it as a base line along with other articles. to choose between the 300 win mag. the belt does not bother me. however I feel it is a limited cartridge housed in its current action size. if it were housed in an action with a magazine to allow for seating the higher BC bullets I think it would change the comparisons between the PRC & Win mag. that would be a good side by side review. id it were possible.
Never heard of a 225 gr berger hybrid.
For your comparison of 300 nm vs 300 PRC I’m surprised you didn’t use. The same bullets the graph is misleading. The other advantage of the 300 Norma is the ability to switch barrel with the 338lm if you wanted. The 300 prc you are stuck with other magnums with similar ballistics.
Just noticed that Bergara is coming out with two 300PRCs in 2019. The Ridgeback looks absolutely awesome.
I don’t understand why your not putting a “300 PRC” vs “300 ultra mag ” use both 210 Bergers. Or ELD 212. 300 ultra mag wins. If hornady really wanting to sell this cartilage messed up from the start. The name sucks ” 300 PRC ” . Why not the 300 Creed, or 300 creedmoor.
What is the recoil compare to 300 Win?
It generates greater recoil than the 300WM. There’s more powder capacity in the 300 PRC.
Its a minuscule increase in powder, that plus you are probably going to shoot a heavier bullet than 300 Win means a bit more recoil.
Lol…cranky…
I’m on board….have been waiting on this for years…was fixing to build a 300 norma….
Saw this prc while researching stuff for norma….
Didn’t even hesitate to jump ship…trying to wait calmly for MPA to deliver my 300 prc…
I dislike the case and the belt of the 300 wm and that’s what I was trying to find….
Nice write up…cant wait for more…
Its not the belt that is the problem with 300 Win, its the short neck. Unlike most I like be!ted cases. So would you if you’d blown up a couple of rifles. A belt or a rim helps with keeping explosive gas out of you’re face when a case ruptures. When playing around with Wildcats a belt makes fire forming simple also.
I really like the case design, its a very sensible approach to a 30 caliber hunting cartridge, I see its been shot a lot the last few years so not just a flash in pan,
only drawback I see initially is what factory rifles can accept this 3.7″ OAL of cartridge ?
I have a Remington 700 action that has been milled to accept a 3.85″Wyatts mag box ,also my 300 Way Mark V action should be close as I think its 3.6″
I’m having a 300 PRC built on a Stiller Predator action which is designed to accept the longer Wyatts mag box,
I received my reamer, Hornady Brass and some Hornady 212 ELD-X ammo, now to pick up a barrel.
Thanks for the updates and info on the 300 PRC.
How can you in good conscious compare a 250 gr 338 Lapua against a 225 300 PRC??? I bet your Hyundai could outrun my Corvette when I have a couple flat tires. What a joke. This is a deceitful representation of the capabilities of the cartridge. Let me fix it. 300 PRC is essentially equal to the 300 win without the belt and nearly identical ballistics. There, that’s your entire article.
Wow, Carl. Didn’t know that an article could make you so angry.
Honest question, what do you think we should we have compared for bullet weights? Are you upset that they aren’t the same weight for comparison or that they aren’t different enough?
If you’re upset that we didn’t use the same weight, that doesn’t make much sense to us. That would be like giving your Hyundai and Corvette the same size engine.
If you’re upset that we didn’t use different enough weights, what would have you preferred?
I think the problem is that you picked a load for the 338 Lapua that used a G1 .521 bullet; try a more modern bullet such as the 285 ELD with a G1 of .829 (G2 .427 SD .365) since you are singing the praises of the PRC using an ELD bullet with a G1 of .777 (G2 .391 SD 339). Since I use a 338 Lapua, I saw the issue as soon as I looked at your graph.
Sorry…I put G2 instead of G7….distracted doing other things.
Way to go Cleckner. Always pissing people off. Keep the podcast going by the way! And When you get some spare time, write that book on map/compass navigation. It’ll make a nice addition to my Cleckner book collection. Seriously tho, I’d love to learn how, and be able to teach our boy-on-the-way how to navigate without the use of electronics. Really enjoyed the last episode from the ranch. God bless.
Should have used the highest bc Bullet of the same manufacturer.
I used the best available at the time. Now that more options are available I might go back and update this. However, the amount of butt-hurt I get over displaying actual data is entertaining to me.
LOL, nice article nonetheless. I like the 300 PRC.
Carl is not angry, someone is fudging facts to create the illusion that one cartridge case has better performance than one of larger capacity !
Ok, what facts did I fudge? If you guys would like a different comparison, please let me know the bullet weights/brands you’d like to see and I’ll surely do it! I think that if I did the same weight folks would complain and if I did different weights folks are clearly complaining. Happy to make this article better – are you up for helping?
mybe if you pick the bullets with the best bc for the caliber that will keep everyone happy well most you can never keep everyone happy
Did literally no one else pick up on the statement that the .300PRC was NOT chosen as for being the outright best performer, but instead a performance improvement on the .300WM while retaining action and bolt face compatibility?
A fact that makes this article useful in understanding cartridge selection, without breaking the internet, as declaring an outright long range performance cartridge would have been bound to do.
I came here looking to uderstand why the .300PRC might be chosen over its nearest competitors, and the article neatly answered that.
No one said your favorite pet cartridges were bad.
I think you hit the nail on the head. The Army bought all of those M24s in a long action so that at some point in time they could convert from 308 too 300 Win mag. Very few have been converted though. Will the 300 PRC (300 Prick) fit in a M24? The Army can get funding for parts & repairs for existing weapons much easier than they get approval for a new weapon. I know it sounds stupid but sometimes its easier to spend 2K on an existing weapon rather than spend 1K on a new weapon. The Marine’s Rem 700s are short action so they won’t be updated.
Cartridge are like breast, different size and shape for everyone taste…
Sent it
This guy is right on, the three comparisons within the article are cherry picked to show what the author wants them to show . This article is pure bs.
Ok, this is the second request I’m making for constructive input here. Let’s see if any comes in or if folks just like to bash. What comparison would you like to see? I’ll add it. Is it that you all want the same bullet weight compared between the 300 PRC and the 338 Lapua? I’ll happily do that. However, I can imagine just as many guys crying that it would be unfair because one benefit of the 338 Lapua is the ability to shoot heavier bullets. For example, imagine if I was comparing .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor, should I use the same bullet weight or popular weights in their respective calibers?
Some quick judgement on your article there. I think you were just using a comparison of the cartridge capabilities. I appreciate that.
I think what would show the capabilities in a comparison between like-cartridges (even though they really aren’t) and a straight comparison with the same projectile, say the 212 ELD-M. 300 PRC vs, 300 WM vs. 300 RUM vs 300 Norma. Same powder loaded to max capacity, same barrel lengths, same day, same distances, on a target shooting for groups. Say 500 – 1000 yds. I’m glad to spend your money.
I think that would make for some interesting comparisons.
Ryan, appreciate the review. I would suggest running the same test but using 300gr SMK’s or 285gr Eldx in the Lapua. My thinking is that not many people are going to buy a 338 Lapua and shoot ballistically inferior ammo through it. They will be using the caliber to it’s fullest potential. I think this would give us a better real world perspective.
Ryan, do you like this new caliber over and above the Norma and WM? I’m building a PRC as we speak…
Hi Ryan, I don’t have a dog in this fight, it appears others do…
I would like to see you do a comparison of the .300WM firing a Berger 210grn VLD, my present load, or even the 212grn ELD vs the .300 PRC shooting the 225grn ELD.
I don’t shoot the .300Norma, or the .338 Lapua. But I think if you use the 300grn load in the .338Lap and the heaviest bullet weight available in the .300Norma, this should silence the detractors…
I like the idea that I can just change the barrel on my .300WinMag and (hopefully) get a performance increase without going to a larger action size.
On a personal note, your calm and reasoned replies are a credit to you.
Keep it up, hopefully see you at SHOT show next Jan…
Use best bc in each caliber AND
Same bullet weight It’s not rocket science
Crap people!!! Do not EVER try to write an article that some might actually find enjoyable to read ever again! 😉 Poor tactic to not take ones given available information, to decipher, then use as a way to further their education on a subject matter was clearly lost among some readers. The want to complain was obviously stronger than the desire for one to possibly do research and contribute some data to the article. Now share some of that 300 PRC promotion $$$ they must have paid you Ryan????
LOL use the 240 Grain Alco ULD RBT for the PRC and soft points for the 338. There, there’s a comparison worth noting. I think the Alco ULD BC’s in G1 are in the 800’s. I use 210, 220, 230 grain ULD’s for my PRC reloads and those things come out of that Barrel MOVING. Of course I’m just seeing this article 2 years after it’s release so I think I just found another VERY knowledgeable and useful resource for my platforms and reloading. Thanks for your article. I don’t understand why some folks have to tear it down and over-inflate semantics. I thought it was a fair evaluation of the platforms, and of course it makes a case for the usefulness of the new kid on the block. I’d read that when socom approached cartridge developers that resulted in the PRC, their requirements were that it have a 50% hit probability on a human sized target at 2k yards, and still be compact enough to lug around out in the bush.
Hi Ryan, appreciate the write-up.
Quick question. What twist is your barrel? I’m hearing all different twists ranging from 1-8 all the way up to 1-10 and every decimal point in between. The lightest projectile I’d ever be putting down barrel is 225. And when heavier factory lids arrive, those as well.
Any input is much appreciated as I only want to buy 1 barrel 1 time.
Thanks
I have been waiting for others to offer this caliber in their rifles . Really love my ruger Precision in 338 lapua but the data does not lie and something that wont brake the body up as bad as the 338 yet produces I really want to try . You are the man Ryan thanks again .
Why did you not use the same bullet in norma and prc?
Norma got a g1 bc of .686
Prc got a bullet with a g1 bc of .777
Hornady must be doing some advertising around here $
I took the loads that were available in my ballistic software. I don’t think there’s any doubt that the 300 Norma beats the 300 PRC. I just don’t think it’s worth the larger case/receiver needed.
Could you eliberate a little more on the dangers of shooing the 300 norma mag at angles?
thank you
I’m am skeptical about contention that the 300 Norma is inconsistent at different shooting angles. That likely is the result of low powder load density easily solved by using a larger charge of slower burn rate powder at a slight compresion when the bullet is seated or at a 95-99% load density. I do this with virtually everything I load from 204 Ruger, 375 Ruger and even some ELR style wildcats
I’m skeptical too. I haven’t experienced it myself but I’ve heard it from more than one source I trust.
As a new owner of a .300 PRC Savage, I’m a believer. I can thank my friend who’s a marine (ret.) for showing me his bergara. It kicks enough so you know it’s got guts but it’s not so much that it takes a long time to reacquire the target. And with a 1:8.5 twist I can use all the way up to the 250 grain bullets. While I can’t get over something like 2,700 FPS for it, the cartridge is SUPER fun to reload, if not a little touchy. After research in the comparative performance of the .300 PRC vs .338LM and .300WM. I feel like this was a fantastic Choice especially given my range and Chrono results out to 1,000 yds thus far.
Have you measured or calculated recoil in the MRAD? You reference 24″ MRAD barrel. Barrett P/N 18431 Caliber Conversion Kit in 300PRC SS fluted and 18432 26″ carbon fiber are both 26″. Is that a typo or did you have an early prototype barrel? What will the 26″ expect to provide in MV? GF (she’s a keeper) ordered 18431 kit for my FDay; delivery end of next week.. No MRAD P/N in 300PRC listed in 2019 Price Sheet.
The issue stating it is more powerful than the 338 LM paat 1,000 yards is because you are comparing it to a light bullet for the 338 LM. I am pushing a 300 gr Berger Elite Hunter, G7 BC of 0.415, with 97.5 gr of RL-33 from a 26″ barrel, well below max pressure, averaging 2724 fps. At 2,000 yards I am still retaining over 750 ft lbs of energy, thats 285 ft lbs or 61%, more energy than the 300 PRC. People are getting even more than that with 28 inch barrels. Not doubting the great design compared to other 30 caliber magnums, but to compare it to a 250 gr 338 LM offering doesn’t paint an accurate picture to claim it to be more powerful at extreme ranges.
I dropped a bowling ball out of a plane at 2000 yards and it hit with 1800 lb with zero drop. Clearly better then a 338. Right
I enjoyed reading your article but the idea that the 300 PRC is more poweful than a 338 LM at 1000 yds is stretching it a bit. It boils down to bullet BC. The 338LM is a superb cartridge that in the factory configuration is way underperforming. There are bullets out there that substantially improve the ballistic performance of the 338LM way beyond what a 300 PRC is capable of. Just like in cars, there is no replacement for displacement. I cerainly agree that the PRC is an improvement over the 300 WM, but so was the 300 WSM.
I made an Americanized 8mm x 68mm Schuler wildcat, using 375 Ruger virgin brass. I can come very close to a Rem Big Eight with ten grs less powder. Mine works through mil Mauser 98’s. Ditto for the 375 Ruger. So where did they grab an extra 3/10ths inch, COAL??
Hi Ryan, I am a big fan, thank you very much for your books and breaking things down for us mere mortal shooters. Being a Barrett MRAD/Mk-22 300 Norma owner for a little 2 years now, and having conducted research (actually part of my job with my company) on the 300 Norma VS 300 PRC, it is my understanding that Hornady tried to design/build/market their own rifle around the 300 PRC cartridge, trying to capitalize on US Sniper rifle contract.
Barrett responded by incorporating the 300 PRC into the MRAD which allowed for an easy 6 minute switch between barrels and cartridges. Depending on user preferences the Barrett could be packaged with different cartridge options according to end-customer preferences.
Naval Special Warfare snipers opted for the MRAD 300 PRC with a 1 in 8′ twist rate. The original twist rates for Barrett’s MRAD 300 Norma was through a 1 in 10′ twist rate barrels which made it inadequate for 245-250 grain bullets. With the new 1 in 8′ twist rate in the 300 Norma, the 245 – 250 grain bullets is where that weapon’s system is expected to perform better in meeting the long range goals set by the PMs for the US Army sniper program and SOCOM’s sniper program PM.
Recoil on the Mk-22/MRAD 300 Norma with the OEM muzzle break is surprisingly low, it actually ‘feels’ like more of push than a the brisker shove you get from the MRAD’s chassis when you fire it chambered in .308 in the 22″ barrel. This would be different in a hunting rifle for sure but a little added recoil between the 300 PRC and the 300 Norma, who cares when you might shoot such a rifle 5-30 rounds a year around large game hunting season?
Some of the concerns in getting poor cartridge fill in the 300 Norma, allegedly leading to potential inconsistent firings and therefore making the 300 PRC a better cartridge… was, in my opinion, a bunch of BS. Several powders such as Norma 217 and Retumbo provide proper case fill (Other powders which my also work are Re-26, IMR-8133 and IMR 7911).
Another note about the Norma 300 chambering: the 338 Norma Magnum chambering, despite getting the same velocities out of the 338 Norma as the 338 Lapua, the 338 Norma has demonstrated nearly double the barrel life according to SOCOM which is phasing out the 338 Lapua. How does that have any kind of co-relationship(s) to barrel wear differences between the 300 Norma and the 300 PRC? This would be worth exploring.
Another consideration in comparing the 300 Norma to the 300 PRC should be the brass characteristics for reloading and using loads on the higher end of the scale: according to ‘Mark and Sam After Work’ the 300 PRC starts to show pressure signs sooner compared to the 300 Win. Magnum which, in my book could be another point in the favor of the 300 Norma if you are concerned about short term and long term supply chains risks, R&D present and future technology risks and availability for ammo and sub-components such as brass, bullets, and powder: subcomponents’ availability, quality, performance innovation of the suppliers are critical to those of us choosing between the 300 PRC and the 300 Norma.
There is much more to be determined in comparing the 300 PRC, 300 Norma and even the 300 Winchester Magnum, should be included in that comparison, time will give each end-user better reference points lead more informed purchase decisions to those looking for a new high performance ELR or hunting rifle. Hope this brings about another perspective from a different lens…