In a modern action, it is not necessary to use such anemic loads in the 7x57. Loaded to its potential, it is an exceptional round. At equal pressure, the 7x57 will always slightly best the 7-08 because it has a larger case capacity.
In my instrumented 7x57, at conservative pressure, I can get 2750 FPS out of a 160 grain bullet from a 24" tube. I doubt that any animal would notice the difference between that and a 165 at 2850 out of a 30-06.
Glad to share the load, but I'm away from home and don't have access to my data.
Once you decide that you are not going to have a bullet impact at a speed greater than 2800 FPS, the need for a premium bullet is greatly reduced. I would happily shoot Hornadys or garden variety Speers at the speeds I've mentioned.
At the moment Shooter's Pro Shop (Nosler's factory outlet) has 140 grain 7mm AccuBonds for $16.70 per 50. That's a good deal, if you like that weight of bullet.
Last edited by denton; 02/11/09.
