How much shorter is a WSM rifle really?
Given equal length barrels (to get equal ballistic performance) the WSM will be 1/2" shorter and 2 oz's lighter.
This is very true. If choosing between 2 basically identical rifles with the only difference being the 300WM and 300WSM chamberings, I'd say the slight difference in weight and length is not worth giving up the slight advantage of the longer cartridge. Same with the 308 vs 30-06.
Where the shorter cartridges shine is in the lighter rifles designed around them. Remintgon 7's, Kimbers, etc.
