Bergara has announced the availability of several rifle models chambered in 7mm Precision Rifle Cartridge (PRC). Among these, at least initially, are all of the Bergara Wilderness Series rifles, including the carbon fiber models and the B-14 Squared Crest version.
Hornady designed the 7mm PRC caliber as a way to fill the gap between 6.5 PRC and .300 PRC. The resulting cartridge, used with a long action receiver, flies at magnum speeds. It’s a flat shooter, consistently hitting velocities nearing 3,000 fps or more. Despite these velocities, the 7mm PRC’s recoil is moderate when compared to .300 PRC and reportedly allows for a lengthy barrel life relative to 6.5 PRC.
There is very little body taper to the round, which allows for plenty of room in the case… speaking of which, that case itself is just a smidge over two inches (2.280 to be exact). That in turn leaves plenty of room for a long bullet with a high ballistic coefficient. Overall cartridge length is roughly analogous to the .300 Winchester Magnum and .30-06 Springfield.
Initial cartridge offerings included the 160-grain CX bullet Outfitter line, the 175-grain ELD-X Precision Hunter line, and a 180-grain ELD Match (more on these below). All are rimless, and others will no doubt follow.
- The Outfitter load utilizes a VLD (Very Low Drag) monolithic hunting bullet that utilizes corrosion-resistant, watertight, nickel-plated cases. What’s most interesting about this round is the fact that Hornady utilized a Doppler radar system to test and refine bullet shape and composition. CX – Copper alloy eXpanding.
- The Precision Hunter’s 175gr ELD-X uses an expanding version of Hornady’s high-performance match-grade bullet. It’s intended for longer-range hunting.
- The 7mm PRC Match is a 180gr ELD boattail round with a non-deforming heat shield and secant ogive.
Given the enthusiasm with which the first tranche of 7mm PRC options was received, it’s a pretty sure bet there will be more to come.
