I was considering building a long range pistol and began wondering what the idea case would be to create one off of. What I mean is, what case will give me the least amount of "fireball" when the trigger is pulled. I was thinking about a 7mmBR for up to 200 yard shots, but then I noticed I could build a 7WSM as well. I believe the 7WSM would mostly be a waste of powder seeing as all of it can not possibly be burnt up in a 15" barrel. Thanks in advance.

How about something in the middle. 7-08 is easy to load, accurate as either of the others, will use at least the majority of the powder in a short barrel, would be my first choice and if you are ever 'without' ammo....they sell it at Wally world.

Scott,
Everyone's definition of LR is different. There are a lot of cartridges that will get you too 200 yards easily. Have some questions for you.
What action are you going to build this in (break-open, bolt, cannon breach, falling block)?
Is this for target's only or also for hunting?
If, for hunting , what type(s) of game?
I also like the 7mm-08 and the 260 Remington.

Im considering building this on a savage striker action, so I am limited to short action rounds. Now that I see VVCG is somewhat back, I might also be talked into a G2. Ideally this will be used only for varmints/plinking/target work, with the max range pushing 200 yards. Im also trying to get away from bores that I have now being 243, 257, 264, and 308. When I started comparing the 7mm-08 and the 7mmbr in short barrels, you would be surprised to say the least. I have nothing against the BR round either. It just happens I am shooting a 6mmbr now and wouldnt mind trying something new.

How about a 6.5X284??
7-08 would be easy to feed!

I just notice Long range was only 200 yards, almost anything in the calibers listed will handle the chore

Go to specialty pistol forums and ask any questions there they have the knowlage. they shoot long shots all the time.

You mentioned you are considering a G2. You are aware, then, of the pressure/backthrust limitations of the Contender/G2. That rules out the 7 BR, 7-08, etc. For up to 200 yards as you mention, the 6.5 JDJ, 7-30 IMP and similar rounds will do all that you need. And the .257 JDJ or 25x30-30 IMP (virtually identical to a 25-35 IMP) are super as well.

A fast twist 22 (number of options) will do exactly what you want and will work in the G-2 to boot.

223, 223 AI, 222RM 222Rm AI 5.6x50r, 5.6x50R Improved to name some.

xphunter-You are absolutely correct. I kept thinking deer were part of the equation, but that is not the case.

With that in mind now, I'd have to say the little 6mm-.223 (6x45) would be just about perfect.

6's would sure work too. You could also use a rifle scope if you so desired for higer x's.

You said 'long range' and then topped out at 200 yds. Ernie doesn't consider pistol long range until he gets out to several hundred yards.....and as of late 1500 plus. At 200 yds. depending on whether you want to load your own or not about anything launched out of a single shot pistol will make it.

I realize you said that you wanted to get away from .243, but in the contender/G2, IMO one of the best long range varmint/deer cartridges is the 6mm-223 or the 6TCU. These are effective out past 350 yards, as I have proven to myself, on Jack Rabbits, coyotes, etc.

Plus they are very accurate with the 60gr and 80gr. bullets.

6 one way, half dozen the other, even the 7mm wildcats are known for their accuracy.

what about the .257 roberts?? I have one in 15" and it is great! or even the .257 roderts imp.

250 saage improved. You could even put this one in a contender if you wanted. A nice mild round that will work way out there.

For a 200 yd deer round, I'd look at something that drives a 120 gr to 2400-2500 fps, and there are many choices that will do that, pick your poison. When you say you want a minimal fireball, then look towards the smallest case. I'm thinking a 6.5 or 7 br would be about as good as it gets for your criteria. Going to a WSM case is for 300+ yd peformance, and I have a feeling there will be some muzzleblast