A Tale of Two Magnums
The world of long-range shooting and hunting is a realm of precision, power, and passionate debate. Among the many contenders for the title of ultimate long-range cartridge, two stand out as particularly compelling: the 7mm STW (Shooting Times Westerner) and the 28 Nosler. These two magnum cartridges, both employing the versatile seven-millimeter bullet, promise exceptional performance and offer hunters and shooters a diverse range of capabilities. But which one truly reigns supreme? This article delves into a detailed comparison of the 7mm STW versus the 28 Nosler, examining their specifications, ballistics, recoil, reloading characteristics, hunting applications, and overall value. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive guide to help you decide which cartridge best aligns with your specific shooting needs and hunting preferences.
Delving into Design and Specifications
The foundation of any cartridge’s performance lies in its design. The 7mm STW, born in the shooting community, is a testament to the relentless pursuit of ballistic excellence. It’s built upon the strong foundation of the 8mm Remington Magnum case, but it is necked down to accommodate the seven-millimeter bullet, which allows for a greater range of bullet weights and performance characteristics. This provides a substantial case capacity, crucial for achieving high velocities with slower-burning propellants. The shoulder angle is designed to promote reliable feeding and efficient powder combustion. The cartridge’s dimensions are optimized for maximizing the amount of propellant, contributing to its remarkable ballistic capabilities. The 7mm STW typically is known for its balance between power and manageable recoil.
The 28 Nosler, a relative newcomer to the scene, has quickly gained popularity. It is the brainchild of Nosler, a renowned manufacturer of high-quality bullets and cartridges. Its design is rooted in the robust 404 Jeffery case, known for its impressive strength and efficient powder burning characteristics. This provides a significantly larger case capacity compared to the 7mm STW. This design choice allows the 28 Nosler to push heavier bullets at remarkable velocities, further extending its effective range. The case features a steep shoulder angle, which helps in efficient powder burning and consistent performance. The 28 Nosler’s overall design emphasizes the pursuit of ultimate long-range performance, resulting in a cartridge that is known for its impressive capabilities.
Key design differences translate into performance variations. The 28 Nosler’s larger case capacity naturally leads to higher velocities and potentially flatter trajectories. While the 7mm STW is no slouch in the velocity department, the 28 Nosler generally boasts an edge. It’s important to note that both cartridges are generally chambered in long-action rifles, providing enough space for the longer cartridges and allowing for optimal bullet seating. The choice of which action type is the best is often dictated by the shooter’s existing preferences, as both are well-suited for their purpose.
Unpacking Ballistic Performance
Ballistics are where the rubber meets the road, so to speak. They reveal a cartridge’s true capabilities. Understanding the ballistic profile of both the 7mm STW and the 28 Nosler is paramount to making the right choice.
Bullet Selection
Selecting the ideal bullet for either cartridge involves careful consideration. A wide variety of seven-millimeter bullets are available. Both cartridges can efficiently handle a wide range of bullet weights, from lighter options for flatter trajectories to heavier options for increased sectional density and retained energy at longer ranges. The 7mm STW typically shines with bullets ranging from lighter bullets ideal for deer up to heavier bullets. The 28 Nosler excels with a wider range of bullets with a similar selection.
Velocity
Velocity plays a critical role in ballistics. The 28 Nosler, thanks to its larger case capacity, can achieve significantly higher muzzle velocities with similar bullet weights. This means a 28 Nosler can push a bullet faster than a 7mm STW, resulting in a flatter trajectory and reduced wind drift, which are key factors in long-range accuracy. The 7mm STW, while still capable of impressive velocities, often lags slightly behind. The choice between the two might then simply come down to a desire for extreme performance.
Trajectory
Trajectory is the bullet’s path through the air. A flatter trajectory means less bullet drop over long distances, making it easier to hit the target. The higher velocities of the 28 Nosler translate into a flatter trajectory compared to the 7mm STW, particularly at extreme ranges. This is a critical advantage for hunters and shooters who need to compensate less for bullet drop. The 7mm STW still exhibits a relatively flat trajectory, but the 28 Nosler will generally provide an edge in this regard.
Energy
Energy retention is another key consideration. Both cartridges deliver substantial downrange energy, but the 28 Nosler, with its higher velocity and often heavier bullet options, tends to retain more energy at longer distances. This means the 28 Nosler often has more impact energy upon reaching the target. This can be a significant advantage when hunting larger game animals or in situations where maximum penetration is required. The 7mm STW, while still capable of delivering ample energy, may exhibit slightly less energy retention at extreme distances.
Recoil Dynamics and Handling Characteristics
The power delivered by these magnum cartridges comes at a price: recoil. Understanding the recoil of both the 7mm STW and the 28 Nosler is crucial for shooter comfort, accuracy, and overall shooting experience.
Both cartridges produce significant recoil, but the 28 Nosler will generally have more. This is a direct consequence of its higher velocities and often heavier bullet weights. Heavier rifles and effective muzzle brakes can mitigate the recoil.
Recoil is not just about raw force; it is also about its characteristics. Factors such as rifle weight, stock design, and the presence of a muzzle brake can significantly influence how recoil is perceived. Proper technique and practice can also play a major role in taming recoil.
The impact of recoil on shooter comfort should not be underestimated. Excessive recoil can lead to fatigue, flinching, and reduced accuracy. The 7mm STW, while still powerful, tends to have slightly less recoil than the 28 Nosler. This can make it a better choice for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or plan on extended practice sessions.
Handling considerations also come into play. The overall rifle dimensions and weight, the action type, and magazine capacity, all influence the handling characteristics of a rifle chambered for either cartridge. The 7mm STW, being a slightly older design, might offer a broader availability of rifles with familiar features. The 28 Nosler, being a newer design, sometimes features more modern rifle designs.
Reloading Revelations
Handloading, or reloading, is the art of crafting your own ammunition. It offers a significant advantage when optimizing cartridge performance.
Component Availability
Reloading component availability varies. Both cartridges benefit from robust support within the reloading community. However, finding reloading components can sometimes be easier and more predictable for the 7mm STW, while the 28 Nosler may have some availability issues.
Ease of Reloading
The ease of reloading, however, can vary. The 7mm STW often benefits from wider availability of data and established reloading recipes. The 28 Nosler, while still supported by extensive data, may have fewer available options for some components.
Powder Options
The range of powder options is another factor to consider. Both cartridges can use a wide selection of slow-burning propellants, which are essential for achieving optimal velocity and performance.
Handloading is the key to maximizing performance for both cartridges. It allows you to fine-tune your loads, experiment with different bullet weights, powders, and seating depths to achieve the highest levels of accuracy and performance.
Hunting Applications and Effectiveness
Where do these cartridges truly shine? Hunting. Both the 7mm STW and the 28 Nosler are excellent choices for long-range hunting applications. However, their strengths and weaknesses dictate the optimal hunting scenarios.
The 7mm STW is a highly versatile cartridge suitable for a wide range of game animals, including deer, elk, bear, and even some of the larger African plains game. Its relatively manageable recoil and excellent ballistic performance make it an ideal choice for hunters who prioritize accuracy and consistent performance. The 7mm STW can effectively take down animals at respectable distances.
The 28 Nosler, with its higher velocities and flatter trajectory, is ideally suited for long-range hunting of big game. It is a popular choice for elk, mule deer, pronghorn, and similar species. The 28 Nosler’s ability to maintain energy at extreme distances makes it highly effective for taking down game in open terrain.
Effectiveness on different game species will also depend on the hunter’s shot placement and bullet selection. Both cartridges require proper bullet selection and effective shot placement to ensure a clean and ethical harvest. The 28 Nosler’s increased energy and trajectory advantages can prove particularly helpful for reaching those tough-to-access animals that require long-range shots.
Legal requirements for hunting also play a role. Hunters must always adhere to local and regional regulations regarding cartridge selection and hunting practices. Always familiarize yourself with local laws.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Analyzing the advantages and disadvantages is essential for making an informed decision.
7mm STW
* **Pros:**
* Slightly less recoil than the 28 Nosler.
* Potentially lower ammunition and component costs.
* Reliable performance with a wide variety of bullet weights.
* Longer track record and wider rifle availability.
* **Disadvantages:**
* Slightly lower velocities than the 28 Nosler.
* Slightly less case capacity.
* Trajectory may not be as flat as the 28 Nosler at very long ranges.
28 Nosler
* **Pros:**
* Higher velocities for flatter trajectories.
* Increased energy retention at long ranges.
* Excellent choice for long-range hunting.
* **Disadvantages:**
* More recoil.
* Potentially shorter barrel life.
* Can be slightly more expensive to reload.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between the 7mm STW and the 28 Nosler is a nuanced decision. Both cartridges represent outstanding options in the world of long-range shooting and hunting. The best choice hinges on the individual shooter’s needs, preferences, and intended applications.
For shooters who prioritize a more manageable recoil, are new to magnum cartridges, or plan on extensive target practice, the 7mm STW may offer a more enjoyable shooting experience. Its slightly lower recoil and excellent ballistic performance make it a very versatile cartridge, which can effectively take down game at respectable distances.
For shooters who are primarily focused on long-range hunting and desire the flattest possible trajectory, the 28 Nosler might be the more appropriate choice. Its higher velocity and increased energy at long ranges offer a significant advantage in challenging hunting scenarios.
Ultimately, the best way to decide between the two cartridges is to consider the game you plan to hunt, the ranges at which you will be shooting, and your tolerance for recoil. Whichever cartridge you choose, remember to practice regularly, select appropriate bullets for your target species, and always prioritize ethical shot placement. Both the 7mm STW and the 28 Nosler can be outstanding choices, and your decision will be the best one for you.
