format_quoteIntroduced in 1892 by Peter Paul von Mauser, the 7×57mm is toward the top of a short list of all-time-great cartridge developments. With good case capacity, a fast rifling twist, and 56,565 psi working pressure under the CIP standard, the 7mm Mauser offers serious performance for hunting of all non-dangerous big-game species, worldwide.
It is worth noting that WDM (Walter Dalrymple Maitland) Bell killed at least 800 elephants using this round loaded with 173-grain Military full-metal-jacket bullets at about 2300 fps. Shot placement and bullet performance have always been king when it comes to hunting effectiveness.
With the best handloads using best modern components, the 7mm Mauser is more effective than ever before. For example, with Rl-26 and a 24-inch barrel, it is no trick to launch the Nosler 168-grain AB-LR at 2750 fps. With the excellent BC and outstanding terminal performance of that bullet, energy delivered is far more than sufficient for shots on elk to well past 500 yards!
As such, the 7mm Mauser is a superior choice for hunters who do not feel the need for a Magnum and who agree with me that if well-placed shots from a 7mm Mauser will cleanly dispatch elephants similarly well-placed shots will likely get the job done on lesser species.
As my friend, Terry Brewer, says: “There is no replacement for shot placement.” He is right.
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