Best 7mm PRC Ammo
Compare loads for defense, target, competition & more
The 7mm PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) represents Hornady's 2022 answer to the growing demand for a factory cartridge optimized for heavy, high-BC 7mm bullets. Building on the success of the 6.5 PRC, Hornady designed this round specifically to launch 175-180 grain match-grade projectiles at velocities that maximize their ballistic potential. The cartridge uses a non-belted magnum case based on the .375 Ruger, featuring a 30-degree shoulder and generous body taper that ensures reliable feeding while maintaining excellent case capacity.
This cartridge fills a critical niche for hunters and long-range shooters who need more energy than the 6.5 PRC delivers but want better ballistics than traditional magnums like the 7mm Remington Magnum. The 7mm PRC typically launches a 175-grain ELD-X at approximately 2,975 fps, generating over 3,400 ft-lbs of muzzle energy while maintaining supersonic flight well past 1,400 yards. This combination of energy, flat trajectory, and wind resistance makes it exceptionally effective for elk, mule deer, and mountain game at distances where traditional hunting cartridges struggle.
Shooters choose the 7mm PRC when they need genuine long-range hunting capability without the punishing recoil and barrel-burning characteristics of larger magnums. The cartridge delivers magnum-class energy with recoil comparable to a .300 Winchester Magnum, while offering superior external ballistics thanks to the high-BC bullets it's designed to shoot. With factory rifles and ammunition now widely available from major manufacturers, the 7mm PRC has rapidly established itself as the premier choice for serious Western hunters pursuing game at 400-800 yards and beyond.
All 7mm PRC Loads
Compare ballistics and prices across 8 products
| PRODUCT ↕ | GRAIN ↕ | VELOCITY ↕ | ENERGY ↕ | BC ↕ | USE CASE ↕ | BEST PRICE ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Federal Premium 7mm PRC 175gr ELD-X Ammo
175gr
• 3000 fps
|
175gr | 3000 | 3497 | .689 | — | $3.44/rd |
|
Federal Terminal Ascent 7mm PRC 170gr Ammo
170gr
• 2950 fps
|
170gr | 2950 | 3285 | .646 | — | $3.56/rd |
|
Fiocchi Hyperformance 7mm PRC 150gr TTSX Ammo
150gr
• 3100 fps
|
150gr | 3100 | 3200 | .455 | — | $3.92/rd |
|
Hornady Match 7mm PRC 180gr ELD Match Ammo
180gr
• 2975 fps
|
180gr | 2975 | 3539 | .796 | — | $3.28/rd |
|
Hornady Outfitter 7mm PRC 160gr CX Ammo
160gr
• 3000 fps
|
160gr | 3000 | 3197 | .596 | — | $3.17/rd |
|
Hornady Precision Hunter 7mm PRC 175gr ELD-X Ammo
175gr
• 3000 fps
|
175gr | 3000 | 3497 | .689 | — | $3.32/rd |
|
Nosler Trophy Grade 7mm PRC 175gr AccuBond LR Ammo
175gr
• 3000 fps
|
175gr | 3000 | 3497 | .648 | — | $5.02/rd |
|
Weatherby Select Plus 7mm PRC 150gr Swift Scirocco Ammo
150gr
• 3050 fps
|
150gr | 3050 | 3098 | .515 | — | $5.19/rd |
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Optimized for heavy, high-BC 7mm bullets (175-180gr class)
- Exceptional long-range ballistics with minimal wind drift
- Magnum energy levels with manageable recoil
- Excellent barrel life compared to overbore magnums (2,000+ rounds)
- Factory ammunition and rifles widely available
- SAAMI standardized for consistent chamber dimensions
- Superior downrange energy retention for ethical long-range hunting
- Non-belted case design for smooth feeding and better accuracy
Cons
- Relatively new cartridge with less proven track record
- Premium ammunition is expensive ($2.50-4.00 per round)
- Requires long-action rifles, limiting platform options
- Not ideal for ranges under 300 yards where lighter calibers suffice
- Recoil may be challenging for smaller-framed shooters
- Limited budget ammunition options compared to established calibers