A Look Back: The Genesis of Power
The history of the 28 Nosler is relatively short, a testament to the advancements in cartridge design of the modern era. It emerged as a member of the Nosler family of cartridges, built upon the experience of modern ballistics. The goal of this caliber was clear: to maximize performance from a standard-length action, delivering excellent velocity and a flat trajectory. This focus on velocity combined with high ballistic coefficients and a streamlined design, intended to provide the most optimal performance. The intention was to create a modern big-game cartridge for long range hunting applications.
The 300 RUM has a longer, more established history. It is part of the Remington Ultra Magnum series, which was designed to push the boundaries of cartridge performance. The 300 RUM was conceived to be one of the most potent cartridges in the industry, designed to deliver exceptional velocity and power. The vision was to offer a cartridge that would excel at extreme ranges, particularly on larger game. The 300 RUM was developed to fit in a standard-length magnum action, increasing its appeal to a broad range of shooters and hunters.
Bullet Choices: The Heart of Performance
Choosing the correct bullet is paramount for both cartridges. Selection has more impact than simply velocity and trajectory.
For the 28 Nosler, shooters typically select bullets in the grain range. These bullets combine good ballistic coefficients with high sectional density. This combination is very favorable for long range hunting where the ability to retain energy downrange is crucial. The selection here is vast, from hunting bullets with controlled expansion characteristics designed to be effective on large game to target bullets that are streamlined and optimized for minimal wind drift. The 28 Nosler’s flatter trajectory and impressive range capabilities are a direct result of optimized bullet selection.
The 300 RUM often handles larger projectiles, typically in the grain range. These heavier bullets generate a significant amount of kinetic energy at both the muzzle and downrange. The broad selection ensures the cartridge can be used for all sizes of game and varying conditions, making it a flexible choice for hunters.
Power and Flight: A Tale of Velocities
Velocity is a defining characteristic of both cartridges. A higher muzzle velocity generally translates to a flatter trajectory, less wind drift, and more retained energy at longer ranges. The 28 Nosler is often touted for its flat-shooting characteristics. While actual figures will vary with the specific loads, the 28 Nosler can typically push a bullet faster than most other magnum cartridges of this size, resulting in a flatter trajectory, thus making long-range calculations easier.
The 300 RUM is known for its power and raw energy. While the 28 Nosler may be flatter shooting, the 300 RUM offers a larger bullet and is capable of retaining more energy at long range. The performance is very much dependent on the specific load and bullet choice, but the inherent potential of the 300 RUM is immense.
When considering both cartridges, understanding the concept of the ballistic coefficient and sectional density is very important. A high ballistic coefficient translates to a projectile’s ability to cut through the air. The 28 Nosler often benefits from bullets with high ballistic coefficients. Sectional density is another important factor, which is the ratio of the bullet’s weight to its diameter. A higher sectional density will reduce the bullet’s deceleration in flight. The 300 RUM can utilize bullets with high sectional density due to its larger bore diameter.
Rifle and Equipment: The Practical Realities
The availability of rifles chambered in these calibers is a key consideration. Both cartridges are popular enough to have a wide range of options. The 28 Nosler is a newer design, but rifle manufacturers readily offer rifles chambered in it. The 300 RUM has a proven track record, and the large number of rifles in circulation will make it easy to find a rifle chambered in it. Prices also vary, but both are available at various price points, from budget-friendly to high-end custom builds.
Barrel life is something that every shooter should be aware of. A high-performance cartridge places a lot of stress on the barrel. The combination of high pressures and temperatures during firing inevitably leads to wear and tear. The 28 Nosler and 300 RUM are both known for relatively shorter barrel lives. Careful consideration of reloading practices, powder selection, and the rate of fire can help extend barrel life.
The shooter’s experience and comfort are also essential aspects. Recoil, and the force of the rifle upon firing, should be considered. The 300 RUM is known for its significant recoil due to the size of the cartridge. The 28 Nosler also generates noticeable recoil, but it is generally considered to be more manageable than the 300 RUM. Muzzle blast, the loud report and the expanding gases upon firing, is another consideration. Both cartridges create a substantial muzzle blast.
Purchasing brass, reloading dies, and other components is something every shooter needs to prepare for. Brass for both calibers is widely available, although the 28 Nosler might have slightly fewer options. Reloading dies are easily accessible, as are other reloading components.
Hunting and Shooting: Putting Them to the Test
Both the 28 Nosler and the 300 RUM are powerful cartridges suitable for hunting various game animals. The 28 Nosler is often praised for its flatter trajectory, making it a great option for open country hunting. It’s well-suited for medium- to large-sized game like elk, deer, and even larger animals at appropriate distances. The 300 RUM delivers exceptional power, providing confidence when facing larger game.
Beyond hunting, these cartridges find use in various shooting disciplines. The 28 Nosler’s trajectory is advantageous in competitive shooting. The 300 RUM is an excellent platform for long-range target shooting, where the ability to buck the wind is very important.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Scales
The 28 Nosler’s advantages are very apparent. It is a cartridge with a relatively flat trajectory, meaning its bullet travels on a flatter path. It is capable of excellent accuracy. The disadvantages involve barrel life, and it may be slightly harder to source ammunition in certain areas.
The 300 RUM boasts several attractive features. It offers a proven track record and readily available ammunition and components. Its main drawback includes higher recoil and potentially more wind drift compared to the 28 Nosler in specific scenarios.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing between the 28 Nosler and the 300 RUM depends on individual needs and preferences. For shooters who prioritize flat trajectories, the 28 Nosler might be the better choice. For those who hunt larger game or want to maximize retained energy at extreme ranges, the 300 RUM could be the preferred option. Factors like recoil tolerance, shooting experience, and the specific game hunted should all be considered.
The 28 Nosler and the 300 RUM are both powerful cartridges. Both are fully capable of delivering excellent performance. Understanding their individual strengths and weaknesses is vital.
Share your thoughts and experiences with these cartridges. What are your preferences? Which one have you chosen for your favorite application? The discussion is open.
