The .378 Weatherby Magnum is a high-powered rifle cartridge developed by Roy Weatherby in 1953. It is primarily designed for large game hunting, including dangerous game such as Cape buffalo, elephant, and other big game animals. The cartridge is based on a belted magnum case, with significant case capacity for a large amount of powder, providing high muzzle velocities and energy levels.
The .378 Weatherby Magnum typically fires a .375-inch (9.5mm) diameter bullet, with weights ranging from 270 to 350 grains. The cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and impressive energy retention, making it effective at long ranges. It generates substantial recoil, which requires a well-built rifle and proper shooter technique to manage effectively.
Due to its power, the .378 Weatherby Magnum is less commonly used for medium or smaller game, where such power is unnecessary and may cause excessive meat damage. Instead, its primary use remains in dangerous game hunting, where stopping power and reliability are paramount.