Two very popular cartridges that were made for similar tasks are the 300 WSM and the 6.5 PRC. These cartridges were made to give magnum level performance in short action cartridges. But what does each cartridge really do best? what are they best used for? does their being short action have a big effect on their performance? In this article, we seek to answer all these questions and more.
Here is the short answer:
The 6.5 PRC is better used for long range shooting and deer-sized game hunting. On the other hand, the 300 WSM is a heavier hitting cartridge made for hunting big game like elk and moose, but does not have as flat of a trajectory as the 6.5 PRC.
Since we looked at the short answer, we can look closer at each caliber, each of the caliber ballistics in a common bullet weight, and how the two cartridges compare in-depth.
In-Depth Look at the 6.5 PRC
The 6.5 PRC, PRC being short for Precision Rifle Cartridge, was introduced by Hornady in 2017. It was designed to provide a flat trajectory and the ballistic performance of a much bigger cartridge in a short action cartridge. The cartridge fires 6.5mm bullets with high ballistic coefficient to maximize its long range performance and energy retention.
The 6.5 PRC has become popular in competitive shooting events, where accuracy and precision are paramount. It is also an excellent choice for hunting medium-sized game, such as deer and antelope, at long distances due to its flat trajectory and minimal recoil.
Here is a ballistics chart of the 6.5 PRC with a 140-grain Nosler Accubond:
| range (YD) | drop (IN) | wind drift (IN) | velocity FPS | energy ft-lb |
| 0 | -1.5 | 0 | 2750 | 2351 |
| 50 | -0.1 | 0.2 | 2647 | 2177 |
| 100 | 0 | 0.8 | 2546 | 2014 |
| 150 | -1.2 | 1.7 | 2447 | 1861 |
| 200 | -3.8 | 3.1 | 2350 | 1717 |
| 250 | -8.1 | 5 | 2256 | 1582 |
| 300 | -14.1 | 7.4 | 2163 | 1455 |
| 350 | -21.9 | 10.3 | 2073 | 1336 |
| 400 | -31.7 | 13.7 | 1985 | 1225 |
| 450 | -43.5 | 17.5 | 1899 | 1121 |
| 500 | -58 | 22.1 | 1816 | 1025 |
In-Depth Look at the 300 WSM
The 300 Winchester Short Magnum, or 300 WSM, was introduced by Winchester in 2001. It was based on the 300 Win Mag shortened to be a magnum-level performance in a short action rifle.
The 300 WSM fires heavy 30-caliber bullets with high energy, making it a formidable cartridge for hunting large game, such as elk and moose. The cartridge excels in delivering high terminal energy, making it effective for taking down big game animals quickly and ethically.
The 300 WSM is also known for its accuracy and relatively mild recoil when compared to other magnum cartridges, making it popular among hunters who prefer a hard-hitting cartridge without excessive recoil.
Here is a ballistics chart of a 300 WSM with a 180-grain soft point:
| range (YD) | drop (IN) | wind drift (IN) | velocity FPS | energy ft-lb |
| 0 | -1.5 | 0 | 2950 | 3478 |
| 50 | -0.2 | 0.1 | 2852 | 3250 |
| 100 | 0 | 0.6 | 2756 | 3035 |
| 150 | -0.9 | 1.5 | 2662 | 2832 |
| 200 | -3.1 | 2.6 | 2570 | 2639 |
| 250 | -6.6 | 4.1 | 2480 | 2457 |
| 300 | -11.4 | 5.9 | 2391 | 2285 |
| 350 | -17.8 | 8.2 | 2304 | 2122 |
| 400 | -25.9 | 11 | 2220 | 1969 |
| 450 | -35.8 | 14.2 | 2137 | 1825 |
| 500 | -47.4 | 17.9 | 2055 | 1688 |
In-Depth Comparison
Ballistics: The 6.5 PRC has a flatter trajectory and better long-range performance due to its high ballistic coefficient bullets. It has less drop and wind drift compared to the 300 WSM. However, the 300 WSM fires heavier bullets with more energy, making it better for hunting large game at close to medium range (100-500 yards being close to medium range).
Recoil: The 6.5 PRC has significantly less recoil than the 300 WSM, making it more a comfortable shooting experience for smaller framed shooters or for shooting during extended periods of time. This reduced recoil is advantageous for precision shooting and target engagements at long distances. However, this lighter recoil does come at the cost of energy of as the 300 WSM far exceeds the 6.5 PRC wise of energy.
Hunting Applications: While both cartridges are effective for hunting, they are better suited for different game animals. The 6.5 PRC being more appropriate for medium-sized game, such as deer, antelope, and sheep while the 300 WSM is better suited for hunting large game, such as elk, bears, and moose.
Ammunition Availability: The 300 WSM has been on the market for longer and is more readily available in a variety of loads and bullet types. The 6.5 PRC, being a newer cartridge, may have a more limited selection of ammunition options, however, the 6.5 PRC has become a very widespread cartridge that is gaining lots of popularity due to its revolutionary design and function.
Versatility: This area is a tie, the 300 WSM is extremely versatile for hunting big game but gets to be too big of a cartridge for long range shooitng. The 6.5 PRC can’t be used to unt overly big animals but it is ideal for long range shooting.
Conclusion
The choice between the 6.5 PRC and the 300 WSM depends on the shooter’s desire. The 6.5 PRC is an excellent choice for precision shooting and long-range hunting of medium-sized game. On the other hand, the 300 WSM is better suited for hunters seeking a hard-hitting cartridge for taking down large game.