.300 RUM Ammo

Professionally Reviewed by:

Nathaniel Boos

Nathaniel Boos

Nathaniel Boos is a lifelong firearms enthusiast and shooter, renowned for his experience as a long-range shooter, ammunition importer/exporter, and firearms manufacturer. With years of hands-on experience, he is a trusted authority in the ammunition and firearms industry.

Credentials:

  • • 2x Team Safari Competitor
  • • KRG Training Level 1, 2, and Force on Force CQB certified
  • • Licensed Texas Conceal Carry Holder
  • • Kranz Firearms Training Group Advanced Carbine Certified

.300 RUM Ammo: At a Glance

Key Characteristics
Firearm Type Rifle
Primer Type Large Rifle Magnum
Used For Long-range hunting, Target shooting
Case Design Rimless, Bottleneck
Year Introduced 1999

.300 RUM Ammo: Pros and Cons

Pros

  • ✔ Exceptional long-range performance
  • ✔ High velocity and energy retention
  • ✔ Excellent for large game hunting
  • ✔ Flat trajectory for easier aiming
  • ✔ Superior ballistic coefficient

Cons

  • ✘ Significant recoil
  • ✘ Expensive ammunition
  • ✘ Barrel wear is accelerated
  • ✘ Not suitable for smaller-framed shooters
  • ✘ Limited firearm options compared to more common calibers

.300 RUM Ammo: In Depth

The .300 Remington Ultra Magnum (RUM) is a powerful, high-performance rifle cartridge designed for long-range shooting and big game hunting. Introduced by Remington Arms in 1999, it quickly gained popularity among hunters and long-range enthusiasts for its flat trajectory, high velocity, and impressive energy retention at extended distances. The .300 RUM is known for its ability to deliver magnum-level performance while maintaining manageable recoil, making it a versatile choice for various shooting applications.

History and Development

The .300 RUM was developed by Remington Arms as part of their Ultra Magnum series, which aimed to push the boundaries of cartridge performance. It was designed to compete with other large-capacity magnum cartridges like the .300 Weatherby Magnum and .30-378 Weatherby Magnum. The cartridge is based on the .404 Jeffery case, which was necked down to accept .30 caliber bullets.

Remington's goal was to create a cartridge that could deliver extreme velocities and energy levels while still being practical for use in standard-length actions. The result was a cartridge that could propel heavy .30 caliber bullets at velocities exceeding 3,000 fps, providing excellent long-range performance and terminal ballistics on large game animals.

The .300 RUM quickly gained a following among long-range shooters and hunters who appreciated its flat trajectory and energy retention at extended ranges. Its performance made it particularly popular for hunting large game animals at long distances, as well as for competitive long-range shooting.

Since its introduction, ammunition manufacturers have developed a wide range of loads for the .300 RUM, from lightweight, high-velocity options for varmint hunting to heavy, high-BC bullets for extreme long-range applications. This versatility has contributed to the cartridge's enduring popularity among shooting enthusiasts.

Timeline of .300 RUM Development and Milestones:

Year Event
2023 The .300 RUM continues to be popular among long-range hunters and competitive shooters.
2010 Advancements in bullet technology lead to improved long-range performance of .300 RUM ammunition.
2001 The .300 RUM gains widespread adoption among long-range hunters and competitive shooters.
1999 Remington Arms introduces the .300 Remington Ultra Magnum cartridge to the commercial market.
1998 Development of the .300 RUM is completed by Remington Arms.
1997 Remington begins development of the Ultra Magnum series, including the .300 RUM.

.300 RUM Performance

The .300 Remington Ultra Magnum offers exceptional performance characteristics that have made it a popular choice for long-range hunting and competitive shooting. Here's a breakdown of its key performance characteristics:

Characteristic Performance
Velocity 3,300-3,500 fps (180-grain bullets) 3,000-3,200 fps (200-grain bullets)
Varies based on barrel length and load type
Trajectory Very flat trajectory at long ranges
Effective for big game hunting and target shooting beyond 1000 yards
Energy 4,000-4,500 ft-lbs at the muzzle (180-200 grain bullets)
Provides excellent performance for large game animals at extended ranges
Recoil Significant, but manageable with proper technique and equipment
Recoil energy typically ranges from 30-40 ft-lbs depending on load and rifle weight
Accuracy Capable of sub-MOA accuracy in quality rifles
Excellent for long-range precision shooting and competitions

Bullet Weight vs. Muzzle Velocity

This chart shows how bullet weight affects muzzle velocity for common .300 RUM loads.

Note: Actual velocities may vary based on specific loads, barrel length, and other factors. These values are estimates for comparison purposes.

.300 RUM: Effective Range for Different Applications

This table provides estimated effective ranges for .300 RUM ammunition in various applications. Ranges are based on typical bullet weights and velocities.

Application Effective Range (yards) Notes
Long-Range Hunting 0-1000 Excellent for large game at extended ranges
Extreme Long-Range Target Shooting 0-1500 Capable of extreme long-range accuracy with proper loads
Military/Law Enforcement Sniper Operations 0-1200 Suitable for anti-materiel and long-range precision engagements
Dangerous Game Hunting 0-400 Powerful enough for large, dangerous game at closer ranges
Competitive Long-Range Shooting 0-1500 Popular for extreme long-range competitions

Note: Effective ranges can vary based on factors such as bullet selection, shooter skill, wind conditions, and specific firearm characteristics. The .300 RUM is known for its exceptional long-range performance and high energy retention. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local laws and regulations.

Applications for .300 RUM

The .300 RUM's powerful performance profile makes it suitable for a range of long-range applications:

Long-Range Hunting
  • Ideal for large game hunting at extended ranges
  • High energy retention for ethical kills on big game
  • Flat trajectory allows for simplified long-range shooting
Extreme Long-Range Target Shooting
  • Popular for extreme long-range shooting competitions
  • Capable of maintaining supersonic velocities beyond 1500 yards
  • Wide variety of match-grade ammunition available
Military and Law Enforcement
  • Used in specialized long-range sniper operations
  • Effective for anti-materiel roles due to high energy
  • Suitable for situations requiring extreme range and power
Dangerous Game Hunting
  • Powerful enough for large, dangerous game at closer ranges
  • High energy transfer for quick, ethical kills
  • Flat trajectory allows for precise shot placement

Caliber Comparisons

To understand the .300 RUM's place in the rifle world, it's helpful to compare it to similar cartridges. Click on each comparison to see more details:

.300 RUM vs. .300 Winchester Magnum ▼

.300 RUM vs. .338 Lapua Magnum ▼

.300 RUM vs. 7mm Remington Magnum ▼

Recoil Energy Comparison

Compare the estimated recoil energy of .300 RUM with other popular rifle cartridges. (Based on a 9 lb rifle)

Note: Recoil energy can vary based on specific loads, firearm weight, and other factors. These values are estimates for comparison purposes.

Ballistic Trajectory Comparison

This chart compares the ballistic trajectory (bullet drop) of .300 RUM with other popular rifle cartridges over distance.

Note: Trajectories are calculated for a 200-yard zero. Actual results may vary based on specific loads, atmospheric conditions, and firearm characteristics.

Wind Drift Comparison

This chart compares the wind drift of .300 RUM with other popular rifle cartridges in a 10 mph crosswind.

Note: Wind drift is calculated for a 10 mph full-value crosswind. Actual results may vary based on specific loads, atmospheric conditions, and firearm characteristics.

Energy Retention Comparison

This chart compares the energy retention of .300 RUM with other popular rifle cartridges over distance.

Note: Energy values are calculated based on typical bullet weights and velocities for each cartridge. Actual results may vary based on specific loads and environmental conditions.

Sectional Density Comparison for .300 RUM Ammo

The .300 Remington Ultra Magnum (RUM) is a powerful, large-caliber rifle cartridge known for its high velocity and long-range performance. This table compares the sectional density of various .300 RUM loads.

Cartridge Bullet Weight (gr) Sectional Density
.300 RUM 180 0.271
.300 RUM 200 0.301
.300 RUM 220 0.331
.300 RUM 165 0.248
.300 RUM 190 0.286

Note: The .300 RUM offers excellent sectional density values, particularly with heavier bullets, contributing to its reputation for deep penetration and long-range effectiveness. The cartridge's high velocity further enhances its performance capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is .300 RUM Ammo?

A: .300 RUM (Remington Ultra Magnum) is a powerful, large-caliber rifle cartridge introduced by Remington Arms in 1999. It's designed for long-range shooting and big game hunting, offering high velocity and energy.

Q: What is the effective range of .300 RUM?

A: The .300 RUM has an effective range of up to 1000 yards for hunting purposes, and can reach even further for target shooting. Its high velocity and flat trajectory make it excellent for long-range applications.

Q: What type of game can be hunted with .300 RUM?

A: .300 RUM is suitable for hunting large game animals, including elk, moose, bear, and even African big game. Its high energy makes it effective for taking down large animals at extended ranges.

Q: How does .300 RUM compare to other .30 caliber magnum cartridges?

A: .300 RUM generally offers higher velocities and flatter trajectories than other popular .30 caliber magnums like .300 Winchester Magnum or .300 Weatherby Magnum. It can push a 180-grain bullet to velocities over 3,300 fps.

Q: What are the recoil characteristics of .300 RUM?

A: .300 RUM produces significant recoil, more than most other .30 caliber cartridges. Proper technique and a well-designed rifle stock or muzzle brake can help manage the recoil. It's generally not recommended for recoil-sensitive shooters.

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