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What do you gentlemen regard as an ideal finished weight for a 375H&H bolt gun? That is with scope and sling but no ammo. I ran a search but nothing came up. Surely this has been discussed before.


"The right to bear arms" insures your right to freedom, free speech, religion, your choice of doctors, etc. ....etc. ....etc....
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Posts: 1521 | Location: Just about anywhere in Texas | Registered: 26 January 2008Reply With Quote
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This is pretty subjective stuff.

For me, personally, it's 10 pounds, plus or minus, scoped and fully loaded.

I have two that fit that bill.

I have another one that comes in lighter, somewhere around 9-9.5, and I like it just as much!


Mike

Wilderness is my cathedral, and hunting is my prayer.
 
Posts: 13769 | Location: New England | Registered: 06 June 2003Reply With Quote
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What and where do you plan on hunting? In Africa where most of the traveling and "hunting" is done from a Land Cruiser a 10 pound 375 is no detriment but if you are carrying it for miles and miles, day after day in rugged Alaskan terrain a 10 pound rifle will becme a burden. I have two 375's that weigh under 8 pounds and the little additional recoil is a small price to pay for the benefit of an easier to carry rifle.


Anyone who claims the 30-06 is ineffective has either not tried one, or is unwittingly commenting on their own marksmanship
Phil Shoemaker
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Posts: 4211 | Location: Bristol Bay | Registered: 24 April 2004Reply With Quote
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I'm with 458win. Here we chase Sambar deer in some pretty steep country ... an 8lb 375H&H is a dream. A 10 lb 375H&H is a burden.
Cheers...
Con
 
Posts: 2198 | Location: Australia | Registered: 24 August 2001Reply With Quote
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Under 8 pounds. Last one weighed about 7.5 scoped. Current 375 Wby weighs about 10 pounds scoped and it has never seen the woods yet.


My biggest fear is when I die my wife will sell my guns for what I told her they cost.
 
Posts: 6656 | Location: Wasilla, Alaska | Registered: 22 February 2005Reply With Quote
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10-11. When I have to walk up and down the tundra I suck it up.
 
Posts: 956 | Location: PNW | Registered: 27 April 2009Reply With Quote
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9 lbs with 25" barrel.
 
Posts: 2627 | Location: Where the pine trees touch the sky | Registered: 06 December 2006Reply With Quote
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8-8.5 pounds is perfect, IMO.


Jason

"You're not hard-core, unless you live hard-core."
_______________________

Hunting in Africa is an adventure. The number of variables involved preclude the possibility of a perfect hunt. Some problems will arise. How you decide to handle them will determine how much you enjoy your hunt.

Just tell yourself, "it's all part of the adventure." Remember, if Robert Ruark had gotten upset every time problems with Harry
Selby's flat bed truck delayed the safari, Horn of the Hunter would have read like an indictment of Selby. But Ruark rolled with the punches, poured some gin, and enjoyed the adventure.

-Jason Brown
 
Posts: 6842 | Location: Nome, Alaska(formerly SW Wyoming) | Registered: 22 December 2003Reply With Quote
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Mine weighs 9.5lbs ready to hunt. That is ok, 9lbs would be better. 8.5 would be better yet. No reason to go lighter, imo.

458win,

Not all hunting in Africa is done on the back of a truck. And carrying a 10 or 11 pound rifle all day on tracks, day in and day out, should be no significant burden. But if it weighs in at 10 or 11 pounds, the rifle ought to be more than a 375H&H.

JPK


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Posts: 4900 | Location: Chevy Chase, Md. | Registered: 16 November 2004Reply With Quote
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On AR a 6.5lb flyweight!

For me anything between 8.5-10 lbs will be fine.

Ed


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Posts: 2289 | Location: Texas | Registered: 02 July 2005Reply With Quote
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Mine weighs 9.5. I would prefer 8.5. My .458 Win weighs 8.5 and it's no trouble.
 
Posts: 11729 | Location: Florida | Registered: 25 October 2006Reply With Quote
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quote:
Originally posted by JPK:

458win,

Not all hunting in Africa is done on the back of a truck. And carrying a 10 or 11 pound rifle all day on tracks, day in and day out, should be no significant burden.

JPK


I know, I've stalked game on foot in both Zim and Mozambique and it is no where near as difficult as stalking and hiking in Alaksa.
I've carried 10 pound rifles and 8 pound rifles and I much prefer the lighter ones. to each their own.


Anyone who claims the 30-06 is ineffective has either not tried one, or is unwittingly commenting on their own marksmanship
Phil Shoemaker
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Posts: 4211 | Location: Bristol Bay | Registered: 24 April 2004Reply With Quote
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... an 8lb 375H&H is a dream. A 10 lb 375H&H is a burden.
Cheers...
[/QUOTE]

I'm sorry guys, I should have wrote "Realistic/Non-Fantastic Weight for a ready to hunt with (and will be used/shot by hunter making post more than 3 times while on hunting trip) 375H&H using 270 & 300 grain bullets handloaded to upper end potential". (I feel like a fricking attorney.)

I am sure some of you actually have rifles weighing less than 8&1/2 lbs. but I can't see anything under 9 to 9&1/2 lbs. in a 375 with 300 gr. handloads loaded to top end potential. Maybe that's just me. I suspect most of the posters who say 8lbs. for rifle caliber in question are using factory ammo which "seldom" lives up to advertised velocities. I am NOT calling anybody a liar except "most" of the ammo makers. I too would love to have a 375 that weighs 2 lbs. and has no recoil but as God-like as some of us feel at times, I seriously doubt any of us have repealed Sir Isaac Newton's laws.


"The right to bear arms" insures your right to freedom, free speech, religion, your choice of doctors, etc. ....etc. ....etc....
-----------------------------------one trillion seconds = 31,709 years-------------------
 
Posts: 1521 | Location: Just about anywhere in Texas | Registered: 26 January 2008Reply With Quote
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My 458 Lott weighs 10.3 lbs thats fully loaded.
It holds 6 shells.
 
Posts: 2209 | Location: Delaware | Registered: 20 December 2002Reply With Quote
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9 to 9.5 pounds if you are really going to shoot it is about the right weight for a .375. I have never been involved in spending great amounts of money just so I can have the lightest rifle. I like muzzle weight so it will hold solid when the time comes, if I need to save half a pound, there are plenty of things I can leave at home that I likely won't need.


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Posts: 2788 | Location: gallatin, mo usa | Registered: 10 March 2001Reply With Quote
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quote:
quote:
Originally posted by Rae59:
... an 8lb 375H&H is a dream. A 10 lb 375H&H is a burden.
Cheers...


I'm sorry guys, I should have wrote "Realistic/Non-Fantastic Weight for a ready to hunt with (and will be used/shot by hunter making post more than 3 times while on hunting trip) 375H&H using 270 & 300 grain bullets handloaded to upper end potential". (I feel like a fricking attorney.)

I am sure some of you actually have rifles weighing less than 8&1/2 lbs. but I can't see anything under 9 to 9&1/2 lbs. in a 375 with 300 gr. handloads loaded to top end potential. Maybe that's just me. I suspect most of the posters who say 8lbs. for rifle caliber in question are using factory ammo which "seldom" lives up to advertised velocities. I am NOT calling anybody a liar except "most" of the ammo makers. I too would love to have a 375 that weighs 2 lbs. and has no recoil but as God-like as some of us feel at times, I seriously doubt any of us have repealed Sir Isaac Newton's laws.


So why did you ask the question?

Mr. Shoemaker is about as real as it gets and he says 8lbs is good. Do you think he is lying? Do you thing 1 pound makes a big difference in recoil? Do you believe handloaded 300 grs at 2600fps have that much more felt recoil that factory 300gr ammo at 2500fps?

9.5 pounds is too heavy for a 375! Keep in mind 10 pounds is generally accepted as an acceptable weight for a big bore(416, 458, etc.) and these rounds are a big step up from a 375 recoil-wise.

A properly stocked 8.5 pound 375 is a joy to shoot. Even with 300grs traveling near 2600 fps.


Jason

"You're not hard-core, unless you live hard-core."
_______________________

Hunting in Africa is an adventure. The number of variables involved preclude the possibility of a perfect hunt. Some problems will arise. How you decide to handle them will determine how much you enjoy your hunt.

Just tell yourself, "it's all part of the adventure." Remember, if Robert Ruark had gotten upset every time problems with Harry
Selby's flat bed truck delayed the safari, Horn of the Hunter would have read like an indictment of Selby. But Ruark rolled with the punches, poured some gin, and enjoyed the adventure.

-Jason Brown
 
Posts: 6842 | Location: Nome, Alaska(formerly SW Wyoming) | Registered: 22 December 2003Reply With Quote
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I said at the outset that this is pretty subjective stuff and I will stick by that comment.

There is no absolutely ideal weight for a .375 (or any other bolt rifle) that is perfect for everyone under every possible set of circumstances.

There are only personal preferences.

Rae59 got a pretty good range of replies here: i.e., 7.5 to 11 pounds.

Different strokes for different folks. thumb


Mike

Wilderness is my cathedral, and hunting is my prayer.
 
Posts: 13769 | Location: New England | Registered: 06 June 2003Reply With Quote
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Might as well add my preference.
The only .375 H&H I have that has not been converted to .375 Wby, well, she is a sweetheart.
6.75 pounds naked, and 8 pounds with nylon sling and Leupold.

That is a Pre-64 M70 with a slim barrel and 1-pound stock. Holds 4 in the box and one in the chamber. A five-shooter. Capable of 0.75 MOA for three shots.

Same weight can be duplicated by taking the wood (1.75 lbs. of trim walnut) off of a .375 Ruger Hawkeye African and replacing it with a 1-pound stock such as Brown Precision makes. 1" shorter barrel and 1 less round in the box, but easy. Oops, that would be a naked 7 pounds. Close enough.

That is my 8-pounder recipe, just use a nylon strap and a light scope.
Perfect. thumb
My 8-pounder .375 H&H slew most of my game in Botswana, and could have been used for all, of course.

I also humped her around Prince William Sound for black bear. One shot 200-yard bang-flop there.

DRG says: "Kiss my liberal grits!" animal
 
Posts: 28032 | Location: KY | Registered: 09 December 2001Reply With Quote
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8lb, +/- .. 10#? really? that could have been a lott! my 550 express weighs in under 11!


opinions vary band of bubbas and STC hunting Club

Information on Ammoguide about
the416AR, 458AR, 470AR, 500AR
What is an AR round? Case Drawings 416-458-470AR and 500AR.
476AR,
http://www.weaponsmith.com
 
Posts: 40121 | Location: Conroe, TX | Registered: 01 June 2002Reply With Quote
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Haven't weighed mine but it is the same as RIP's and I would say goes quite close to 8 or 8 1/4. Any heavier than that and they are a pain to carry all day long. Stock design is a lot more important to felt recoil than weight.


Have gun- Will travel
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Posts: 3831 | Location: Cave Creek, AZ | Registered: 09 August 2001Reply With Quote
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For a very long time I thought a 375 H&H should weigh around 10 lbs. Last summer I bought a Safari Grade Browning in 458 Win to test some loads for an article I was writing. When I found out it only weighed 7 lbs 13 Ozs I had second thoughts thinking that because it was so light, it would nock the snot out of me. Much to my surprise it is more comfortable to shoot then my 465 double at 10 lbs. or my Searcy 470 double at 10 lbs. 8 ozs. It must be the way the stock is designed, since bullet weights and velocity are identical. Anyone have a Browning Safari in 375 H&H they would like to sell?

465H&H
 
Posts: 5686 | Location: Nampa, Idaho | Registered: 10 February 2005Reply With Quote
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Another vote for 8# thumb


Double Rifle Shooters Society
 
Posts: 1094 | Location: Yazoo City, Mississippi | Registered: 25 January 2004Reply With Quote
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8.5 to 9 pounds scoped! Subtract a pound if open sights only. The 375 does not warrant significant gun weight.
 
Posts: 1662 | Location: USA | Registered: 27 November 2003Reply With Quote
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quote:
Originally posted by ScottS:
8.5 to 9 pounds scoped! Subtract a pound if open sights only. The 375 does not warrant significant gun weight.


+1

My .375 Wby. goes 8.5# scoped and unloaded. It's very pleasant to carry all day in rough terrain and not too hateful to shoot at all.


Founder....the OTPG
 
Posts: 764 | Location: slightly off | Registered: 22 March 2004Reply With Quote
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I'm not sure I see why a hunting rifle in .375 shouldn't be relatively speaking as light as possible.

If hunting North America, I'd assume making one to three shots at the most per trip? Yeah I know, some hunters empty the magazine three times and the game is still on its feet.

When hunting africa I'd assume maybe shooting the rifle once or twice per day, five to 15 rounds per hunt, considering the hunt is a seven to twenty one day trip?

I'm comfortable admitting I'm no He-Man and am semi recoil adverse. Having said that, I don't see the problem with touching off an eight pound .375 once a day or once per trip, especially since it is on live game where it is generally agreed that recoil is less noticeable.
 
Posts: 9678 | Location: Dillingham Alaska | Registered: 10 April 2006Reply With Quote
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quote:
9.5 pounds is too heavy for a 375!



Naw, it ain't. I've humped mine all over the Selous and Maasailand at 9.5 and I shoot it regularly and I'm 67 and 155 and it doesn't bother me a bit. Maybe they don't make 'em like they used to... Wink
 
Posts: 11729 | Location: Florida | Registered: 25 October 2006Reply With Quote
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It depends if you like to shoot it or carry it! Much under 9# & they aren't a lot of fun to shoot IMO, unless you like muzzle brakes, which I do not. It's not the rounds shooting after game, it's all the practice rounds you SHOULD be shooting if you want to be proficient. SO 9# works for me. I have carried my 10 1/4# 404jeffery for miles & miles after buffalo on foot. Yes it gets a bit heavy, but it's also a pleasure to shoot.
quote:
So why did you ask the question?

Mr. Shoemaker is about as real as it gets and he says 8lbs is good. Do you think he is lying? Do you thing 1 pound makes a big difference in recoil? Do you believe handloaded 300 grs at 2600fps have that much more felt recoil that factory 300gr ammo at 2500fps?

9.5 pounds is too heavy for a 375! Keep in mind 10 pounds is generally accepted as an acceptable weight for a big bore(416, 458, etc.) and these rounds are a big step up from a 375 recoil-wise.

A properly stocked 8.5 pound 375 is a joy to shoot. Even with 300grs traveling near 2600 fps.

Jason

ACtually Jason, this tells me you do not shoot a big bore much. Yes 1# matters, yes 100fps w/ heavy bullets matters, even the powder you choose to launch that 300gr bullet matters. Go shoot an 8# .375h&h for 20rds then get back to me. You may think an 8.5# 375 "is a joy to shoot", maybe for one round, but for dozens of practice rounds at a sitting, not for me thanks.


LIFE IS NOT A SPECTATOR'S SPORT!
 
Posts: 7752 | Location: kalif.,usa | Registered: 08 March 2001Reply With Quote
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quote:
Originally posted by fredj338:
It depends if you like to shoot it or carry it! Much under 9# & they aren't a lot of fun to shoot IMO, unless you like muzzle brakes, which I do not. It's not the rounds shooting after game, it's all the practice rounds you SHOULD be shooting if you want to be proficient. SO 9# works for me. I have carried my 10 1/4# 404jeffery for miles & miles after buffalo on foot. Yes it gets a bit heavy, but it's also a pleasure to shoot.
quote:
So why did you ask the question?

Mr. Shoemaker is about as real as it gets and he says 8lbs is good. Do you think he is lying? Do you thing 1 pound makes a big difference in recoil? Do you believe handloaded 300 grs at 2600fps have that much more felt recoil that factory 300gr ammo at 2500fps?

9.5 pounds is too heavy for a 375! Keep in mind 10 pounds is generally accepted as an acceptable weight for a big bore(416, 458, etc.) and these rounds are a big step up from a 375 recoil-wise.

A properly stocked 8.5 pound 375 is a joy to shoot. Even with 300grs traveling near 2600 fps.

Jason

ACtually Jason, this tells me you do not shoot a big bore much. Yes 1# matters, yes 100fps w/ heavy bullets matters, even the powder you choose to launch that 300gr bullet matters. Go shoot an 8# .375h&h for 20rds then get back to me. You may think an 8.5# 375 "is a joy to shoot", maybe for one round, but for dozens of practice rounds at a sitting, not for me thanks.


The fact that you referrer to a 375 as a "big bore" tells me that you might be a bit confused. And yes, I have shot my 375 a bunch. Usually 20 to 40 rounds per range session. I have also used this rifle on lion, elephant, a pair of buffalo and a bunch of plains game from jackal up to eland.

As to 1 pound or 100fps making a big difference in recoil, I ran some numbers for you:

Rifle weight, Bullet weight & Speed = Recoil
8.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2500fpr= 42f/p@17fps

8.0lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2600fps= 48f/p@19fps
8.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2600fps= 45f/p@18fps
9.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2600fpr= 40f/p@16fps

Just for fun I ran your, "pleasure to shoot" 404 through the calculator:
10.25lb rifle, 400gr bullet at 2350fps= 51f/p@18fps

Your 10.25 pound "pleasure to shoot" 404 looks like it has more recoil than an 8.0lb 375 shooting full house 300gr loads.

How could that be??

Roll Eyes


Jason

"You're not hard-core, unless you live hard-core."
_______________________

Hunting in Africa is an adventure. The number of variables involved preclude the possibility of a perfect hunt. Some problems will arise. How you decide to handle them will determine how much you enjoy your hunt.

Just tell yourself, "it's all part of the adventure." Remember, if Robert Ruark had gotten upset every time problems with Harry
Selby's flat bed truck delayed the safari, Horn of the Hunter would have read like an indictment of Selby. But Ruark rolled with the punches, poured some gin, and enjoyed the adventure.

-Jason Brown
 
Posts: 6842 | Location: Nome, Alaska(formerly SW Wyoming) | Registered: 22 December 2003Reply With Quote
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Thankyou FredJ338.
Apparently Jason has a reading impairment. I went out of my way to say that I was NOT calling anyone a liar EXCEPT the majority of the ammo manufacturers. And, I respect Mr.Shoemaker's opion as well as everyone elses. But, I may not agree with them completely.

I currently have a CZ550 Safari in a 375H&H. With a Leupold 2-7 Euro 30 scope it weighs 11 pounds without any ammo in it.

It sports a 25-3/8" barrel (I think). I will be the first one to say: IT IS TOO DAMN HEAVY to carry all day up and down the North country with water and a lunch to boot! In order to lighten it up, I would have to take the wooden stock off (and leave it off-LOL). Or install a plastic stock and I could just load 2 rounds in it instead of the 6 rounds it is capable of. Also I could cut the barrel off 5". That would make it a 20" barrel. I doubt (notice I said doubt- Jason) that I, or anyone else, could get 2400fps. much less 2500fps. with a 300 gr. handloaded bullet and even less with a factory loaded 300 grainer. I have NOT chronographed any factory 375H&H ammo but I have chronographed all of my handloaded 375H&H loads, so I do have adequate knowledge of what role bullet weights & powders have on felt recoil.

And by the way I have shot a .500 Nitro Express in a Searcy double. I believe the owner, a friend of mine who hunts the real deal in Africa, told me the gun weighs 12 pounds. Even at that weight-IT WAS NO FUN !!!!!!!!!!


"The right to bear arms" insures your right to freedom, free speech, religion, your choice of doctors, etc. ....etc. ....etc....
-----------------------------------one trillion seconds = 31,709 years-------------------
 
Posts: 1521 | Location: Just about anywhere in Texas | Registered: 26 January 2008Reply With Quote
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Rae59

What got my hackles up about your post was the fact that you implied that 375s less that weigh less than 9 pounds were fantasy and not realistic. I gather that you don't have any experience shooting a properly stocked 8 to 8.5 pound 375. I wish you and I could get together because I would be happy to let you shoot mine. It is a real pussycat. I have let several people(small bore guys) shoot it and they have all been surprised that it is so easy to shoot.

If you want to put your 375 on a diet you might cut the barrel to 23 inches and have the contour turned down. My gunsmith did this for me on a barrel and it cost me $60(bluing extra). Add a synthetic stock and a lighter scope and you should be able to get down near 9 lbs. But the CZ action is not the best starting point for a light rifle...

The beauty of the 375 is that it is just big enough to take everything, but the recoil is mild enough that it can be housed in a rifle that carries similar to a deer rifle.


Jason

"You're not hard-core, unless you live hard-core."
_______________________

Hunting in Africa is an adventure. The number of variables involved preclude the possibility of a perfect hunt. Some problems will arise. How you decide to handle them will determine how much you enjoy your hunt.

Just tell yourself, "it's all part of the adventure." Remember, if Robert Ruark had gotten upset every time problems with Harry
Selby's flat bed truck delayed the safari, Horn of the Hunter would have read like an indictment of Selby. But Ruark rolled with the punches, poured some gin, and enjoyed the adventure.

-Jason Brown
 
Posts: 6842 | Location: Nome, Alaska(formerly SW Wyoming) | Registered: 22 December 2003Reply With Quote
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quote:
I have NOT chronographed any factory 375H&H ammo


A few years ago, I chrony'd the Rem. 300 A Frame load and got 2550 out of it. I was surprised. I've hunted that round a good bit and have nothing but good things to say about it. It is extremely accurate in my rifle and very effective. I handload, but use the factory round on buff hunts with good effect.
 
Posts: 11729 | Location: Florida | Registered: 25 October 2006Reply With Quote
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quote:
Originally posted by JBrown:
quote:
Originally posted by fredj338:
It depends if you like to shoot it or carry it! Much under 9# & they aren't a lot of fun to shoot IMO, unless you like muzzle brakes, which I do not. It's not the rounds shooting after game, it's all the practice rounds you SHOULD be shooting if you want to be proficient. SO 9# works for me. I have carried my 10 1/4# 404jeffery for miles & miles after buffalo on foot. Yes it gets a bit heavy, but it's also a pleasure to shoot.
quote:
So why did you ask the question?

Mr. Shoemaker is about as real as it gets and he says 8lbs is good. Do you think he is lying? Do you thing 1 pound makes a big difference in recoil? Do you believe handloaded 300 grs at 2600fps have that much more felt recoil that factory 300gr ammo at 2500fps?

9.5 pounds is too heavy for a 375! Keep in mind 10 pounds is generally accepted as an acceptable weight for a big bore(416, 458, etc.) and these rounds are a big step up from a 375 recoil-wise.

A properly stocked 8.5 pound 375 is a joy to shoot. Even with 300grs traveling near 2600 fps.

Jason

ACtually Jason, this tells me you do not shoot a big bore much. Yes 1# matters, yes 100fps w/ heavy bullets matters, even the powder you choose to launch that 300gr bullet matters. Go shoot an 8# .375h&h for 20rds then get back to me. You may think an 8.5# 375 "is a joy to shoot", maybe for one round, but for dozens of practice rounds at a sitting, not for me thanks.


The fact that you referrer to a 375 as a "big bore" tells me that you might be a bit confused. And yes, I have shot my 375 a bunch. Usually 20 to 40 rounds per range session. I have also used this rifle on lion, elephant, a pair of buffalo and a bunch of plains game from jackal up to eland.

As to 1 pound or 100fps making a big difference in recoil, I ran some numbers for you:

Rifle weight, Bullet weight & Speed = Recoil
8.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2500fpr= 42f/p@17fps

8.0lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2600fps= 48f/p@19fps
8.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2600fps= 45f/p@18fps
9.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2600fpr= 40f/p@16fps

Just for fun I ran your, "pleasure to shoot" 404 through the calculator:
10.25lb rifle, 400gr bullet at 2350fps= 51f/p@18fps

Your 10.25 pound "pleasure to shoot" 404 looks like it has more recoil than an 8.0lb 375 shooting full house 300gr loads.

How could that be??

Roll Eyes

Your opinion & I have mine. BTW, I am not sure where you got the load info for the 404j, but my working load is a 389grNF or 400gr solid @ 2250fps. That comes to 43ft#s of recoil @ 16ft/sec. The 8# .375 w/ 300gr load, try 48#. Yeah, I'm sticking w/ pleasure to shoot cmpared to an 8# 375 shooting 300gr @ max. vel. shame


LIFE IS NOT A SPECTATOR'S SPORT!
 
Posts: 7752 | Location: kalif.,usa | Registered: 08 March 2001Reply With Quote
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Fred

Sorry for taking the liberty of guessing at the load for the 404, I didn't realize you were shooting reduced loads.

I'm still not sure that jumping from 43fp of recoil to 48fp of recoil takes you from "pleasure to shoot" to "aren't a lot of fun to shoot". If it does, then I guess you have found your recoil threshold.

But if you are worried about the extra 5fp of recoil you could use an 8.5 lb 375 at the standard velocity(300gr@2550fps). This load has less recoil than your 404, so it should be an even greater "pleasure to shoot", right?

Rifle weight, Bullet weight & Speed = Recoil
8.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2550fpr= 42f/p@17fps
10.25lb rifle, 389gr bullet at 2250fps= 43f/p@16fps

So, I guess that shoots your original statement to pieces:
quote:
Originally posted by fredj338:
It depends if you like to shoot it or carry it! Much under 9# & they aren't a lot of fun to shoot IMO, unless you like muzzle brakes, which I do not.


And, no rifle with a muzzle break is fun to shoot, BTW....


Jason

"You're not hard-core, unless you live hard-core."
_______________________

Hunting in Africa is an adventure. The number of variables involved preclude the possibility of a perfect hunt. Some problems will arise. How you decide to handle them will determine how much you enjoy your hunt.

Just tell yourself, "it's all part of the adventure." Remember, if Robert Ruark had gotten upset every time problems with Harry
Selby's flat bed truck delayed the safari, Horn of the Hunter would have read like an indictment of Selby. But Ruark rolled with the punches, poured some gin, and enjoyed the adventure.

-Jason Brown
 
Posts: 6842 | Location: Nome, Alaska(formerly SW Wyoming) | Registered: 22 December 2003Reply With Quote
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Just for kicks, I checked the Griffin & Howe and Cabela's websites for bolt action .375s of various stripes.

There were 48 for sale. Popular caliber, .375.

Many with scopes, but more without.

Adding 12 oz. to unscoped rifles, for the sake of comparing apples to apples, the relevant data for all 48 rifles came to:

Average Weight: 9 lbs., 6oz.

High Weight: 11 lbs.

Low Weight: 7 lbs., 7 oz.


Mike

Wilderness is my cathedral, and hunting is my prayer.
 
Posts: 13769 | Location: New England | Registered: 06 June 2003Reply With Quote
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I've owned a bunch of 375s. My lightest was a custon Sako w/20' barrel Brown stock. It wieghed 7 3/4 scoped. Recoil was fine. It carried like a 308. If you need a 10 lb. 375 that's fine, you haven't shot much with heavy recoiling guns. For me a 375 isn't really a big bore, it's a general purpose all around hunting gun. My current one is a Browning Safari factory gun and its fine too.
 
Posts: 558 | Location: Southwest B.C. | Registered: 16 November 2005Reply With Quote
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[QUOTE]Originally posted by JBrown:


The fact that you referrer to a 375 as a "big bore" tells me that you might be a bit confused.
------------------------------------------------

Jason,
While you did scratch on the surface of your high hackles, you made no mention of your in-ability to accurately read or interpret text. In order to get to this discussion, you have to left click on:"BIG BORES - .375 cal. and up". I know for a fact that I did not come up with that headline and I doubt that Fredj338 did. It is quite possible that a Mr. Saeed originated that heading since he originated this forum as I understand it. Although I do not know Mr.Saeed, I would tend to believe that he is quite knowledgeable about firearms and is "as real as it gets". Are you implying that he does not know what a "big bore" is? Are you saying that he has no knowledge of firearms or hunting?
As you can see it does not feel very good to be on the receiving end of someone's venom.
As far as me implying anything, I WAS implying that I question the velocities that some are pushing in their light weight rifles. I know for a fact that many hunters/shooters ("many" meaning: more than a few) do not chronograph their ammo and have no clue as to what velocity their barrels are spitting out a given bullet. They merely read their "velocities" in a loading manual or off the manufacturers propaganda. If you will re-read my post, I named NO-ONE in particular!

As far as my experience with recoil and the effects that various reloading components have on it, I have been working up loads for my 375H&H and a 338Win.Mag. in the past year.
(yes Jason, the 338WM is in the "Medium Bores" section of this forum.)
My 338WM is a Tikka T3 that started life at 6&3/4 Lbs. When a scope was added it made to 7 lbs.-12oz. I began with a measly 225 gr. bullet over H4350 powder @ 2700 fps. I could literally not hold the damn thing down! The recoil was so bad that I had to give it a death grip everytime I shot. Even then I still got ringed by the scope every 4th or 5th shot. Accuracy was lousy so I moved on to another powder. I found that when I starting using RL-22, a slower burning powder than H4350, that my accuracy was much better but the felt recoil was slightly less. Not great but less. The velocity was slightly better. I have since had 1 & 1/2 pounds of mercury recoil reducers added to the stock, making the rifle weigh 9 pounds-4oz. The rifle is now a joy to shoot. No more bloody forehead. As far as what Fredj338 said about rifle/bullet weight, he is dead on accurate!

AS far as the 375, it weighs 11 lbs. with scope-no ammo. With 270 gr. bullets it will still rise up off the bags occasionally at 2650 to 2700fps. I know that shooting off a bench is alot different than shooting off of sticks but felt recoil is felt recoil.

Personally, I don't care what your calculator and your recoil formula says. Recoil is what my shoulder feels!

As mrlexma said: This is pretty subjective stuff.

I am new to these larger calibers but have a great deal of shooting experience with .30 cal. on down. If I can notice the difference between a 150gr. bullet and a 180 gr. bullet in a 30 cal. 8 pound rifle then I am quite certain I can notice the difference between a 270 gr. bullet to a 300 gr. bullet that is being pushed hard. Ya, I know that none of us feel the recoil during the thrill of the killing shot on a trophy, but you still have to become proficient (spell?) with your rifle before you get there. It is during this feat that many shooters develope a condition known as "flinching". I do not intend to develope this condition.


"The right to bear arms" insures your right to freedom, free speech, religion, your choice of doctors, etc. ....etc. ....etc....
-----------------------------------one trillion seconds = 31,709 years-------------------
 
Posts: 1521 | Location: Just about anywhere in Texas | Registered: 26 January 2008Reply With Quote
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quote:
Originally posted by JBrown:
Fred

Sorry for taking the liberty of guessing at the load for the 404, I didn't realize you were shooting reduced loads.

I'm still not sure that jumping from 43fp of recoil to 48fp of recoil takes you from "pleasure to shoot" to "aren't a lot of fun to shoot". If it does, then I guess you have found your recoil threshold.

But if you are worried about the extra 5fp of recoil you could use an 8.5 lb 375 at the standard velocity(300gr@2550fps). This load has less recoil than your 404, so it should be an even greater "pleasure to shoot", right?

Rifle weight, Bullet weight & Speed = Recoil
8.5lb rifle, 300gr bullet at 2550fpr= 42f/p@17fps
10.25lb rifle, 389gr bullet at 2250fps= 43f/p@16fps

So, I guess that shoots your original statement to pieces:
quote:
Originally posted by fredj338:
It depends if you like to shoot it or carry it! Much under 9# & they aren't a lot of fun to shoot IMO, unless you like muzzle brakes, which I do not.


And, no rifle with a muzzle break is fun to shoot, BTW....

JB, you crack me up. If you shoot what you say you shoot, you should know that a 380grNF @ 2250fps is not a "reduced load". What makes the 8# 375 such a nasty to shoot is the recoil vel. not just the ft#s. Factory 404j has always been 400gr around 2150fps. I'm not sure what the new Hornady runs, but I'm betting sloer to 2250fps than 2350fps. Again, we agree to disagree.


LIFE IS NOT A SPECTATOR'S SPORT!
 
Posts: 7752 | Location: kalif.,usa | Registered: 08 March 2001Reply With Quote
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I have to agree with fred somewhat. I have a 9.5 all-up Model 70 that I have put over 1500 rounds of mainly reloads through, max loads such as 77 grains of IMR 4350 behind a Hornady or A Frame 300 grain bullet. I also used to load the 270 grain Hornady round nose soft, until they stopped making it. The recoil from my .375 is substantial.
I have an 8.5 pound .458 Winchester mag that I also shoot. I've been advised the recoil impulse for that rifle is about 78 lbs. I shoot reduced loads some times, 405 grain bullets at 1900 fps, but I also shoot 450 A Frames at 2200 fps, that from a 22" barrel. I enjoy shooting it offhand, but rarely shoot it off he bench because I don't want my neck bones rearranged.

I can put twenty rounds through either rifle with no problems and I enjoy shooting both.

I, too, have done a lot of .30 caliber shooting with an 8 pound .300 RUM that kicks worse (to me) than the .375.

Felt recoil is a subjective matter. I have hunted the .375 extensively in Africa, and at age 67 with a weight of 155 lbs, I can carry the .375 all day in the hills of Kitiangare in cool weather or the flats of the Selous at 110 degrees Farenheit.

I would much rather be shooting a 9.5 lb .375 than an 8 lb. .375 at the range. In the bush, it wouldn't matter. But that's just me.
 
Posts: 11729 | Location: Florida | Registered: 25 October 2006Reply With Quote
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quote:
Originally posted by Rae59:
quote:
Originally posted by JBrown:


The fact that you referrer to a 375 as a "big bore" tells me that you might be a bit confused.
------------------------------------------------


I'll stick by my statement. Boddington and everyone else seem to agree: the 375 is a medium bore. If you step up to the big-bores(400gs@2400 of 500gr@2150) you will quickly understand that they are in a different league than the 375.


Jason,
As you can see it does not feel very good to be on the receiving end of someone's venom.


- Don't worry about me. If you stick around here long enough you will grow some thick skin.


AS far as the 375, it weighs 11 lbs. with scope-no ammo. With 270 gr. bullets it will still rise up off the bags occasionally at 2650 to 2700fps. I know that shooting off a bench is alot different than shooting off of sticks but felt recoil is felt recoil.

- Sorry, I've got to call BS. Shooting off the bench is WAY worse than shooting (properly) from field positions. GET AWAY FROM THE BENCH!

Personally, I don't care what your calculator and your recoil formula says. Recoil is what my shoulder feels.

- The calculator tells you "how much" force is generated. How you perceive the recoil depends on gun design and, most importantly, on your state of mind. Perception is everything.

I am new to these larger calibers but have a great deal of shooting experience with .30 cal. on down.

- Please don't take this as a jab, but it was already clear that you are new to shooting the 375. Go out and shoot a few big-bores, then come back to the 375. You will see that it is an easy cartridge to shoot.


Jason

"You're not hard-core, unless you live hard-core."
_______________________

Hunting in Africa is an adventure. The number of variables involved preclude the possibility of a perfect hunt. Some problems will arise. How you decide to handle them will determine how much you enjoy your hunt.

Just tell yourself, "it's all part of the adventure." Remember, if Robert Ruark had gotten upset every time problems with Harry
Selby's flat bed truck delayed the safari, Horn of the Hunter would have read like an indictment of Selby. But Ruark rolled with the punches, poured some gin, and enjoyed the adventure.

-Jason Brown
 
Posts: 6842 | Location: Nome, Alaska(formerly SW Wyoming) | Registered: 22 December 2003Reply With Quote
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quote:
Originally posted by fredj338:
JB, you crack me up. If you shoot what you say you shoot, you should know that a 380grNF @ 2250fps is not a "reduced load". What makes the 8# 375 such a nasty to shoot is the recoil vel. not just the ft#s. Factory 404j has always been 400gr around 2150fps. I'm not sure what the new Hornady runs, but I'm betting sloer to 2250fps than 2350fps. Again, we agree to disagree.


Sorry for calling your loads "reduced loads", but they are a bit light. The original 404 load(400gr@2125fps) has not been available since the Second World War(I believe).

For a long time(half a century?) the standard 404 load was by RWS and it pushed a 400gr bullet at 2330fps. Now we have more choices. The Hornaday pushes a 400gr bullet at 2300fps and the Norma uses a 450gr bullet at 32150fps.

To give you a idea of how much more stout the current 404 loads are than yours, look at the energy each produces:

Brand - Bullet weight-Velocity-Energy
You ----- 380gr - 2250fps - 4271ft/lbs
RWS ---- 400gr - 2330fps - 4821ft/lbs
Hornaday 400gr - 2300fps - 4698ft/lbs
Norma -- 450gr - 2150fps - 4618ft/lbs

So your loads produce about 10% less energy than either of the current 400gr factory loads. To produce the same amount of energy as any of the current factory loads you would need to increase velocity by about 100fps over your current load. I won't call them reduced loads, let's just call then 10% below factory.....
Big Grin


Jason

"You're not hard-core, unless you live hard-core."
_______________________

Hunting in Africa is an adventure. The number of variables involved preclude the possibility of a perfect hunt. Some problems will arise. How you decide to handle them will determine how much you enjoy your hunt.

Just tell yourself, "it's all part of the adventure." Remember, if Robert Ruark had gotten upset every time problems with Harry
Selby's flat bed truck delayed the safari, Horn of the Hunter would have read like an indictment of Selby. But Ruark rolled with the punches, poured some gin, and enjoyed the adventure.

-Jason Brown
 
Posts: 6842 | Location: Nome, Alaska(formerly SW Wyoming) | Registered: 22 December 2003Reply With Quote
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