Two rounds that have gained a lot of popularity recently in the PRC lineup are the 300 PRC and the 7mm PRC. Both these rounds have impressive long range ballistics but they do have their differences and unique characteristics. So in this article, we will compare these two cartridges to see which is better and what the unique characteristics of each cartridge is.
Here is the short answer:
The 300 PRC has better close range ballistics while the 7mm PRC has better long range energy retention as well as less drop and less wind drift. If you desire close range energy then the 300 PRC is the better cartridge, if you want long range performance go with the 7mm PRC.
Now that we have looked at the short answer, we can look closer at each cartridge, their ballistic, and see how they compare in-depth.
In-depth look at the 7mm PRC
The 7mm PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) is a relatively new cartridge introduced by Hornady in early 2023. It is based on the 300 PRC shortened and necked down to use a 7mm bullet. The 7mm PRC has a higher ballistic coefficient compared to other 7mm cartridges and can therefore deliver a flatter trajectory, less wind drift, and better energy retention.
The 7mm PRC is a cartridge that delivers performance better than that of most other 7mm’s which is why it is becoming increasingly popular for long range shooting and big game hunting. The 7mm PRC is capable of taking game like elk well beyond 500 yards. Additionally, it has a flatter trajectory and less wind drift than most other cartridges in its class.
The downside to the 7mm PRC is that it is a newer cartridge so it is harder to find and will cost more per round to shoot. This is what would possibly make it a worse choice than a cartridge like the 7mm Remington Magnum.
Here is a ballistics chart of the 7mm PRC with a 175-grain Hornady ELD-X bullet:
| range (YD) | drop (IN) | wind drift (IN) | velocity FPS | energy ft-lb |
| 0 | -1.5 | 0 | 2995 | 3585 |
| 50 | -0.2 | 0 | 2925 | 3419 |
| 100 | 0 | 0.4 | 2856 | 3260 |
| 150 | -0.8 | 0.9 | 2788 | 3107 |
| 200 | -2.8 | 1.7 | 2722 | 2961 |
| 250 | -5.9 | 2.8 | 2656 | 2819 |
| 300 | -10.3 | 4 | 2591 | 2683 |
| 350 | -15.9 | 5.5 | 2527 | 2553 |
| 400 | -22.9 | 7.2 | 2464 | 2427 |
| 450 | -31.3 | 9.2 | 2402 | 2306 |
| 500 | -41.2 | 11.5 | 2341 | 2190 |
In-depth look at the 300 PRC
The 300 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) is another relatively new cartridge introduced by Hornady in 2018. It is based on the 375 Ruger case, necked down to accommodate a .308-inch bullet. The 300 PRC is designed for long-range shooting and can deliver excellent accuracy, trajectory, and energy performance.
The 300 PRC has impressive ballistics and carries a lot of energy at close range. This round is ideal for hunting big game like grizzly bear, moose, bison, and elk. Compared to most other 30 caliber cartridges the 300 PRC has a lot more energy and better ballistics.
The downside to the 300 PRC is that it is a cartridge that has a lot of recoil which can make it challenging for certain shooters or those who shoot for long periods.
Here is a ballistics chart of the 300 PRC with a 212-grain ELD-X bullet:
| range (YD) | drop (IN) | wind drift (IN) | velocity FPS | energy ft-lb |
| 0 | -1.5 | 0 | 2860 | 3850 |
| 50 | -0.2 | 0.1 | 2790 | 3663 |
| 100 | 0 | 0.5 | 2720 | 3483 |
| 150 | -1 | 1.1 | 2652 | 3310 |
| 200 | -3.2 | 2 | 2585 | 3145 |
| 250 | -6.7 | 3.1 | 2518 | 2986 |
| 300 | -11.6 | 4.4 | 2453 | 2833 |
| 350 | -17.9 | 6.1 | 2389 | 2686 |
| 400 | -25.7 | 8 | 2325 | 2545 |
| 450 | -35.2 | 10.4 | 2263 | 2411 |
| 500 | -46.4 | 13 | 2202 | 2282 |
In-depth comparison
The 7mm PRC and 300 PRC have a few similarities, but there are some notable differences between the two cartridges.
Accuracy:
Both cartridges are designed with precision shooting in mind, and both are known for their accuracy at long range. However, due to the heavier bullet weight available in the 7mm PRC, it may have a slight edge in accuracy at extreme ranges.
Recoil:
The 7mm PRC and 300 PRC generate significant recoil, but the 300 PRC has a bit more recoil due to the larger case capacity and heavier bullet weight.
Ballistics:
The 300 PRC offers a bit more energy and velocity than the 7mm PRC due to the larger case capacity and heavier bullets it can accommodate. However, the 7mm PRC offers a flatter trajectory and less wind drift at longer ranges, making it a great choice for long-range shooting.
Ammunition availability:
Both cartridges are relatively new to the market, so availability may be limited compared to more established cartridges. However, the 300 PRC has had a bit more time to gain popularity and establish itself, so it may be slightly easier to find ammunition and reloading components for.
Cost:
Both cartridges can be expensive to shoot due to the high cost of components and ammunition. However, the 300 PRC may be slightly more expensive due to the larger case capacity and heavier bullets it uses.
Conclusion
Both the 7mm PRC and 300 PRC are excellent cartridges for long-range precision shooting. The 300 PRC offers slightly more power and may be a better choice for extreme long-range shooting, while the 7mm PRC offers a flatter trajectory and less wind drift at longer ranges. Ultimately, the choice between these two cartridges will depend on personal preference, shooting style, and the intended use of the rifle.