new winchester short magnums

[steelheader14]

Has any one shot the new wsm's? How is the recoil compared to a standard magnum rifle? Is it true that the velocities and energy are virtually the same as the full size magnums? I have so many more questions to ask, but these are a few to start with. Any comment and knowledge appreciated!

Thanks and good hunting!!! :confused:

[Shadow]

I don't have any personal experience with the cartridge, but I have been reading up on it a little. From what I have read, it is nearly identical to the .300 Win Mag as far as velocity and energy are concerned. It is advertised as being a hair faster, but I highly doubt that there is significant difference in velocity between the two cartridges. I have read that felt recoil is lighter, but the major factors the contribute to recoil are projectile weight and velocity. I would bet they are pretty similar, and your shoulder probably won't be able to distinguish between the two. The neat thing about the .300 WSM is that it does all this with 7% less powder. It is a more efficient cartridge. If you reload you could use less powder. This fact along with it being a short action are the only real advantages I see. Short actions have less bolt travel, and are often a bit lighter since there is not as much metal in the action. All in all, if you are needing a good deer/big game rifle, it is an excellent choice. If you already have a good rifle I would save my money. I doubt you can tell the difference, and I am sure the deer won't be able to. When my gun is worn out, I might seriously consider the cartridge. That is my take on the subject, but I would be interested in hearing from someone who has actually shot one as well.