The .300 Dakota is a high-performance rifle cartridge designed by Don Allen and Pete Grisel in the late 1990s. It's a part of the Dakota series of cartridges, which are known for their long-range accuracy and powerful ballistics. The .300 Dakota is based on the .404 Jeffery case, modified and necked down to accept .30 caliber bullets (7.62mm).
This cartridge is typically used in hunting and long-range shooting, offering excellent velocity and energy, making it suitable for medium to large game, including elk and moose. It is favored for its flat trajectory and substantial stopping power at extended ranges. The .300 Dakota is less common than other .30 caliber magnums like the .300 Winchester Magnum but has a dedicated following among enthusiasts who appreciate its performance characteristics.
Factory ammunition can be limited, and many shooters opt for custom handloading to optimize the cartridge's potential. The round typically works best in rifles specifically chambered for it, often with strong, modern actions capable of handling the high pressures generated.