GunMagopedia: 7mm PRC

The 7mm PRC is a modern magnum centerfire rifle cartridge designed to do it all: precision shooting, long-range hunting, everyday hunting, target practice, the list goes on. What features does it have to justify those myriad uses, though? Is this a truly amazing cartridge, or another flash in the pan? Here’s what we know about the cartridge and why we think you should check it out.

Contents

The Company Behind the Cartridge
7mm PRC Background
Does the military use 7mm PRC?
How is it different from 7mm Remington Magnum?
How accurate is 7mm PRC?
How far can you shoot with 7mm PRC?
Hunting With 7mm PRC
Self-Defense With 7mm PRC
Available Loads for 7mm PRC
Reloading Components Available for 7mm PRC
7mm PRC Rifle Manufacturers
Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

The Company Behind the Cartridge

Hornady designed 7mm PRC and launched it in 2022. They are, of course, the company founded by Joyce Hornady in 1949. Joyce is known for saying “ten bullets through the same hole” and for coining the company’s tagline “accurate, deadly, dependable” (at least that phrase started during the ammo maker’s early days). He started the company in the aftermath of World War II because he was confident there would be a practically endless demand for good ammo from shooters nationwide. As it so happened, he was right.

The company’s headquarters have been in Grand Island, Nebraska since day one. A .30-caliber, 150 grain spire point was the first component to be produced by Hornady, and it remains a popular one decades later. Seventy years after the company’s founding, they remain among the most innovative ammo manufacturers in the nation. There’s no arguing Hornady’s success rate or the reliable, consistent performance of their ammunition.

early days of hornady manufacturing
The first bullet ever produced by Hornady was a .30-caliber spire point. (Photo credit: Hornady)

Hornady is an ammo manufacturer that’s earned a reputation as a respected company in the firearms industry. The design of the 7mm PRC fits with the company’s constant forward movement and interest in advancing ammunition-related technology.

 

7mm PRC Background

7mm prc
Hornady manufactures three different 7mm PRC loads. (Photo credit: Hornady)

The cartridge was officially launched in the final quarter of 2022. It’s a cartridge made with long, heavy-for-caliber bullets designed for a standard long action. According to Hornady, it was created to fill the niche between 6.5 PRC and 300 PRC.  The company made the 7mm PRC with a variety of fantastic features including using temperature-stable, magnum-speed propellants for reliable velocity with minimal variations. The use of those powders also extends barrel life. Numerous manufacturers are producing factory rifles chambered in this cartridge but shooters can also choose to swap the barrel on their 7mm Rem Mag or 300 Win Mag. With a barrel swap, you get all the benefits of this long-action, centerfire rifle cartridge, in a chassis you’re familiar with.

Although the idea behind the new cartridge was certainly for precision shooters, meaning competition, Hornady made sure it’s also a stellar hunting cartridge. After all, what could be better than a flat-shooting, reliable long-range round that creates consistent, dramatic wound cavities? Whether you’re a precision rifle shooter or interested in mid-to-long-range hunting, this cartridge does it all.

According to records, the cartridge’s specifications and related charts were approved by SAAMI (Sports Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute) on June 7, 2022. That made it an officially recognized cartridge. Hornady waited until October 26, 2022 to carry out their product launch.

Take a look at the SAAMI dimensions:

7mm prc saami dimensions
The 7mm PRC is a SAAMI cartridge. The official dimensions of the cartridge can be seen in the above image. (Photo credit: SAAMI)

This is a cartridge some PRS shooters will attempt to fine-tune, but it seems to do just fine straight from the factory.

Specifications

Name: 7mm PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge)
Manufacturer Hornady Manufacturing, Inc.
Country of Origin United States
Produced 2022-present
Type Centerfire Intermediate Rifle
Parent Case 6.5 Grendel
Case Type Rimless, Bottleneck
Bullet Diameter 6.18 mm (0.243 inches)
Neck Diameter 6.96 mm (0.274 inches)
Shoulder Diameter 10.924 mm (0.4301 inches)
Base Diameter 11.201 mm (0.4410 inches)
Rim Diameter 10.44 mm (0.4410 inches)
Rim Thickness 1.5 mm (0.059 inches)
Case Length 37.85 mm (1.490 inches)
Overall Length 57.40 mm (2.260 inches)
Minimum recommended rifling twist rate 1 in 8
Primer Type Small Rifle
SAAMI Maximum Pressure 358.53 MPa (52,000 psi)
 
hornady 7mm prc length
The cartridge is designed specifically for long-range use. (Photo credit: Long Range Only)

 

 

Does the military use 7mm PRC?

At the time of this writing, it is not being used by the United States military. This cartridge was created for precision rifle shooters and hunters, not for combat applications.

 

 

How is it different from 7mm Remington Magnum?

Although the 7mm PRC and 7mm Remington Magnum are capable of delivering similar velocities, there are quite a few differences between the two cartridges. Perhaps most noteworthy is the fact 7mm PRC is not a belted cartridge, and 7mm Remington Magnum is belted. Also, the case of the 7mm PRC is shorter than that of the 7mm Remington Magnum despite the two cartridges having the same overall length. The 7mm PRC case is also thicker.

Something that makes the new cartridge appealing is its reloading potential. It has greater longevity as far as its case life than the 7mm Remington Magnum does, and that appeals to reloaders.

hornady 7mm prc rifle and ammunition
Hornady is offering the cartridge in three loads. (Photo credit: Hornady)

 

 

How accurate is 7mm PRC?

This cartridge was specifically designed for precision, and it delivers. In fact, it has proven itself to have less drop at long ranges, such as 1000 yards, than 7mm Remington Magnum. It is a precise round that shines at a variety of distances and beats many other cartridges for accuracy past 500 yards. Because it was designed for precision shooting, this cartridge was created to better withstand the effects of wind, so it doesn’t drift as much as other bullets will.

Bottom line is that this is both an accurate and a precise cartridge.

 

 

How far can you shoot with 7mm PRC?

It performs well at long distances. It continues to group well out to 1000 yards and is capable of ringing steel at one mile. The trajectory and overall ballistics are perhaps most impressive around 400 to 600 yards when compared to some magnum cartridges. Of course, at 1000 yards the cartridge is a better performer than many others as well.

From a hunting perspective, this cartridge can prove ethically lethal out to around 500 yards. It might work well at longer distances, but it all comes down to skill, game size, and shot placement. The energy this cartridge delivers at longer distances makes it a fantastic choice for hunters in rougher terrain who need to take longer shots on animals like elk or bears.

savage arms 7mm prc rifle
The Savage Arms 7mm PRC Long Range Rifle is a bolt-action made for precision shooting. (Photo credit: Savage)

 

 

Hunting With 7mm PRC

Hornady has the cartridge rated as capable of handling medium to large game which translates to animals between 50 and 1500 pounds. That means the cartridge is an option for:

  • Whitetail deer
  • Mule deer
  • Elk
  • Bear
  • Exotics
  • Feral hogs
  • Coyotes
  • Aoudad
  • Pronghorn antelope
  • Moose
  • Alligator

That’s not an exhaustive list, but it gives hunters an idea of the cartridge’s broad capabilities. The Precision Hunter load is specifically designed to work well on a variety of game animals and predators. This makes it a versatile option for hunters who would like to have one gun capable of doing it all rather than needing multiple guns zeroed and ready to go for hunting.

Keep in mind that using it on smaller animals will cause significant devastation, so if you want to keep hides intact on coyotes or similar predators, it might be best to use a different round. Of course, if you just want to drop coyotes, this will do it, with style. Considering the distance at which coyotes are often shot, this is a stellar choice for that use. As for game animals such as deer, this cartridge is good for that use and as long as you provide the shot placement, it can drop the animal on the spot.

 

 

Self-Defense With 7mm PRC

This cartridge was not designed for self-defense purposes. That doesn’t mean it can’t technically be used for defense against an attack, only that self-defense isn’t its ideal application. It is meant for long-range use, not close-quarters work.

 

 

Available Loads for 7mm PRC

Hornady is currently the only manufacturer producing this ammunition. It’s offered in three factory loads although reloading components are also available.

Hornady 160 grain CX Outfitter

hornady outfitter ammo
The Outfitter line of ammunition is designed for hunters. (Photo credit: Hornady)

Features

  • Utilizes Hornady’s proven CX (Copper alloy eXpanding) bullets.
  • Delivers uniform, consistent expansion.
  • The manufacturer states weight retention is more than 95%.
  • Sealed primer and case mouth provide watertight protection.
  • Nickel-plated cases for corrosion resistance and greater visibility in low light.
  • Cases are waterproofed for superior protection from moisture.
  • It is California-compatible and appropriate for other areas requiring nontraditional bullets.
  • The versatile cartridge can be used for precision shooting, target practice, competition, or hunting.
  • Sectional density: .283
  • Ballistic coefficient: .596 (G1)
  • Minimum recommended twist rate: 1 in 8
  • Suitable for medium to large game animals

Ballistics, with a 24-inch test barrel:

Distance (yards) Velocity (feet per second) Energy (foot pounds) Trajectory (inches)
Muzzle 3000 feet per second 3197 foot pounds -1.5 inches
100 yards 2840 feet per second 2865 foot pounds 1.4 inches
200 yards 2686 feet per second 2563 foot pounds 0
300 yards 2537 feet per second 2287 foot pounds -6.2 inches
400 yards 2393 feet per second 2035 foot pounds -17.9 inches
500 yards 2254 feet per second 1804 foot pounds -35.6 inches

Hornady 180 grain ELD Match

hornady eld match ammo
If you’re a precision shooter, Hornady’s ELD Match ammunition is the way to go. (Photo credit: Hornady)

Features

  • Polymer tip
  • The Heat Shield tip was made to create the ideal meplat and outperform standard BTHP bullets.
  • Hornady Match rifle ammunition is loaded with an eye for detail, using accurate, consistent match-grade bullets.
  • AMP bullet jackets
  • Cases undergo a rigorous selection process involving wall thickness uniformity, internal capacity, case weight, and consistent wall concentricity.
  • The powder used is matched to each specific load according to strict criteria for optimal pressure, velocity, and accuracy.
  • Extraordinarily tight tolerances and strict adherence to quality control.
  • Impressive lot-to-lot consistency for reliable results when precision shooting.
  • Sectional density: .319
  • Ballistic coefficient: .796 (G1); .401 (G7)
  • Minimum recommended twist rate: 1 in 8
  • Meant for target and match shooting

Ballistics, with a 24-inch test barrel:

Distance (yards) Velocity (feet per second) Energy (foot pounds) Trajectory (inches)
Muzzle 2975 feet per second 3439 foot pounds -1.5 inches
100 yards 2855 feet per second 3168 foot pounds 1.4 inches
200 yards 2739 feet per second 2915 foot pounds 0
300 yards 2626 feet per second 2679 foot pounds -6.0 inches
400 yards 2516 feet per second 2459 foot pounds -17.1 inches
500 yards 2408 feet per second 2253 foot pounds -33.7 inches

Hornady 175 grain ELD-X Precision Hunter

hornady precision hunter ammunition
When extreme precision matters on a hunt, reach for Hornady Precision Hunter. (Photo credit: Hornady)

Features

  • Utilizes Hornady’s Heat Shield tip which is designed to offset the effects of aerodynamic heating, which helps the bullet maintain its shape in flight and improves ballistic coefficient.
  • The highest ballistic coefficient in its class.
  • Has a secant ogive with boattail and concentric AMP bullet jackets to improve overall performance.
  • Match accuracy, only for hunting.
  • Designed to deliver the best possible extended-range terminal performance.
  • Upon impact, the Heat Shield polymer tip drives itself back into the bullet to facilitate expansion.
  • Expansion is controlled for a larger mushroom and approximately 90% weight retention.
  • Made to create significant wound cavities and deep penetration for an ethical, one-shot kill.
  • Sectional density: .310
  • Ballistic coefficient: .689 (G1); .347 (G7)
  • Minimum recommended twist rate: 1 in 8
  • Meant for medium to large game animals and predators.

Ballistics, with a 24-inch test barrel:

Distance (yards) Velocity (feet per second) Energy (foot pounds) Trajectory (inches)
Muzzle 3000 feet per second 3497 foot pounds -1.5 inches
100 yards 2861 feet per second 3181 foot pounds 1.4 inches
200 yards 2727 feet per second 2890 foot pounds 0
300 yards 2597 feet per second 2620 foot pounds -6.0 inches
400 yards 2470 feet per second 2371 foot pounds -17.2 inches
500 yards 2347 feet per second 2141 foot pounds -34.2inches

 

 

Reloading Components Available

If you’re interested in reloading 7mm PRC or simply want to handload it yourself, Hornady offers a variety of related components. Currently available components include:

  • Brass Cases
  • Shell Holder #5
  • Shell Plate #5
  • Modified Case
  •  (.284) Cartridge Gauge
  • (.284) Die Set
  • (.284) Full Length Die
  • (.284) Match Grade Die Set
  • (.284) Match Grade Full Length Die
 

 

 

7mm PRC Rifle Manufacturers

  • Allterra Arms
  • Altus Shooting Solutions
  • Best of the West
  • Boring Rifles
  • Christensen Arms
  • Fierce Firearms
  • GA Precision
  • Gunwerks
  • Hill Country Rifles
  • H-S Precision
  • Horizon Firearms
  • J.P. Sauer & Sohn
  • Kelbly’s Inc.
  • McWhorter Custom Rifles
  • Mesa Precision Arms
  • MOA Rifles
  • Mossberg
  • Proof Research
  • Remington
  • Ruger (coming 2023)
  • Savage
  • Seekins Precision
  • Short Action Customs
  • Springfield Armory (coming 2023)
  • Straight Jacket Armory
  • Stuteville Precision
  • TS Customs
  • West Texas Ordnance

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where did 7mm PRC get its name?

The cartridge name is a combination of the bullet diameter and an acronym that stands for Precision Rifle Cartridge.

What Twist Rate is Best for 7mm PRC?

According to Hornady, the cartridge was designed to deliver its best performance with an average 1-in-8 twist rate.

What’s so special about the cartridge?

The 7mm PRC is made for precision shooting at long ranges. What makes it special is the fact that it’s not a belted cartridge and also that it produces such a flat trajectory at greater distances than many similarly-sized cartridges can manage.

How far can it shoot?

It’s possible to use the 7mm PRC for one-mile hits on steel. Its ballistics seem to shine best around 400 yards and beyond. The 7mm PRC is a great option for long-range shooting out to 1000 yards, although it can go further.

Are there AR-10 platform rifles chambered in 7mm PRC?

The 7mm PRC is made to perform its best out of bolt-action rifles but that doesn’t mean companies won’t eventually manufacture AR-platform rifles for the cartridge.

Are there 7mm PRC bolt-action rifles?

There are numerous bolt-action rifles on the market manufactured by a variety of gun makers that are chambered in the cartridge.

What was the 7mm PRC’s parent cartridge?

According to Hornady, the parent case is the 375 Ruger.

What company designed the cartridge?

Hornady Manufacturing, Inc.

Did Hornady make 7mm PRC for military use?

No, they did not. Hornady designed it for precision shooting, not military applications.

Does anyone other than Hornady make this cartridge?

Hornady is currently the only manufacturer producing 7mm PRC ammunition but that will most likely eventually change.

Can I hunt with 7mm PRC?

Yes, you can. In fact, although Hornady’s focus on producing the cartridge was for long-range precision, it’s also fantastic for medium to large game. It’s even effective on game animals at longer distances (approximate effective range of 500 yards).

What animals can I hunt with it?

Because the 7mm PRC is capable of hunting both large and small game, the sky is the limit. This cartridge can be used on coyotes, feral hogs, white-tailed deer, elk, and everything in between. According to Hornady, it works well on game weighing up to approximately 1500 pounds, which would include most moose.

Is 7mm PRC good for precision shooting?

Yes, Hornady specifically designed the 7mm PRC for precision shooting at longer distances.

What can the 7mm PRC be used for?

This is a versatile cartridge. Although it shines at long-range use, such as for precision rifle shooting matches, it can be used for just about anything. This is a good cartridge for target practice, hunting, and shooting out to one mile.

Is there a recommended twist rate for the 7mm PRC?

Yes. Per Hornady’s recommendations, the ideal twist rate for this cartridge is 1 in 8.

Can I reload it?

Yes, there are reloading components available for the 7mm PRC. That means you can either reload or handload the round to fine-tune it to your needs.

Can I build my own 7mm PRC?

The market is slowly expanding and it should be only a matter of time before you can build your own 7mm PRC.

What is the SAAMI maximum pressure?

SAAMI lists the maximum pressure of the cartridge as 65,000 psi.

Is it better than 7mm Remington Magnum?

Both the 7mm PRC and the 7mm Remington Magnum have great applications and deliver good, reliable performances. The former is not a belted cartridge while the latter is a belted cartridge. Ballistically, the 7mm PRC performs better than the 7mm Remington Magnum, especially after 400 yards. The drift and drop rate of the 7mm PRC is less than that of the 7mm Remington Magnum. Quite simply, it’s a more accurate round capable of greater resistance to wind.

I don’t shoot long-range. Why would I want a 7mm PRC?

It might have been initially designed for long-range use, but it’s also a good hunting cartridge. In addition, it can be used for target shooting at whatever distance you want to run the gun at and, if need be, it could be used for self-defense.

What bolt face is 7mm PRC?

The case head is 0.532, so a 0.540 bolt face is compatible with the cartridge.

Could I have my existing bolt-action rifle rebarreled in 7mm PRC?

Yes, you could do that with a long-action rifle with a 0.540 bolt face.

Who makes a bolt-action 7mm PRC?

Numerous manufacturers produce bolt-action rifles chambered in the cartridge Companies include Savage Arms, Christensen Arms, J.P. Sauer, and Mossberg, but there are many others.

Is it the same thing as 7mm Remington Magnum?

No, it is not. They are two entirely different cartridges. They do have the same overall length, but beyond that, their features vary. Also, the 7mm PRC is not a belted cartridge and the 7mm Remington Magnum is a belted cartridge.

What does 375 Ruger have to do with 7mm PRC?

The 375 Ruger is the 7mm PRC’s parent case.

How long has this cartridge been around?

7mm PRC was designed by Hornady in 2022.

How is it different from 6.5 PRC?

The 6.5 PRC is a smaller cartridge than the 7mm PRC, so although they have the same acronym used in their names, they’re completely different cartridges.

Are 7mm PRC, 7mm Remington Magnum, and 7mm-08 Remington the same thing?

No, they are not. None of these cartridges are identical and all offer varying ballistics.

Is the 7mm PRC the same thing as the 300 PRC?

No, it’s not. Although there are multiple cartridges on the market with the PRC designation, they’re all different.

What is the case capacity of the 7mm PRC?

78 gr H20.

7mm prc rifle
The 7mm PRC is a fantastic option for long-range shooting on steel and also for hunting. (Photo credit: Backfire)
Kat Ainsworth Stevens is a long-time outdoor writer, official OGC (Original Gun Cognoscenti), and author of Handgun Hunting: a Comprehensive Guide to Choosing and Using the Right Firearms for Big and Small Game. Der Teufel Katze has written for a number of industry publications (print and online) and edited some of the others, so chances are you've seen or read her work before, somewhere. A woman of eclectic background and habits, Kat has been carrying concealed for over two decades, used to be a farrier, and worked for a long time in emergency veterinary medicine. She prefers big bores, enjoys K9 Search & Rescue, and has a Master's Degree in Pitiless Snarkastic Delivery.

Sign Up for Newsletter

Let us know what topics you would be interested:
© 2024 GunMag Warehouse. All Rights Reserved.
Copy link
Powered by Social Snap