The .30-378 Weatherby Magnum is a high-powered, long-range rifle cartridge developed by the Weatherby firearms company. Introduced in the late 1990s, it is derived from the .378 Weatherby Magnum with a necked-down case to accept a .30 caliber (7.62mm) bullet. The cartridge is notable for its impressive velocity and energy, making it one of the fastest commercially available .30 caliber cartridges.
Typical bullet weights for the .30-378 Weatherby Magnum range from 150 to 220 grains, with velocities often exceeding 3,500 feet per second (fps) for lighter projectiles. This high velocity and flat trajectory make it an excellent choice for long-range hunting and shooting sports, particularly for large game such as elk or moose at extended distances. However, the high performance comes at the cost of significant recoil and barrel wear.
Due to its specialized nature, the .30-378 Weatherby Magnum is generally used by experienced shooters who require extreme long-range capabilities and are willing to manage its challenging recoil and maintenance requirements. It is not commonly used for casual hunting or target shooting.