I know that there are a few variables here, but how long should a barrel last for a 7mmRemMag, when cleaned properly and using factory loads??

maybe 3,000 rounds.

Mostly the life will be determined if you shoot the barrel when it's hot. Further the life is shortened if you expect 1" groups. It's group size that eventually determines if the barrel needs replacing.

I shot out three barrels chambered for that cartridge.If you shoot max loads she'll last about 300rds.That;s firing three then waiting 10 minutes firing three more etc..until you shoot 40,then shooting again another day.If you do this you will see an inch or more of your rifling gone in front of the throat and your barrel will not be able to shoot accurately.

Hello,
Some elect to use the 7 Rem. Mag for long range match shooting and generally it is thought of as a barrel eater compared to some other calibers as the 308, 30-06, etc. which should not be a shock to anyone. Have not used myself but know those that do and they report that approx. 1000-1100 rounds is about it for pristine accuracy.
Would it still be suitable for sport/hunting purposes?, probably so but many claim it looses it's gilt edge accuracy needed for the 1000 yard mark. Might want to speak to Krieger barrel works or Douglas and see what they will say, but use and cleaning methods make it real hard to predict final outcome.

http://groups.google.com/group/rec.guns/browse_thread/t...=en#25b70fd425eb5371
Bart says 700 rounds for the 7mm mag, but he has to be competiitive at Camp Perry.


I see lots of 7mm mags at guns shows, and I have never seen any throat wear

There must be something different from those 22-250s I look at.

1,500...No, 1,100...No, 1,000...No, 700...No, 350...No, 300...aw, what the hell, I say one box and its a goner!

Once talked to a popular gunsmith in my area and asked him about the barrel life of my 7mm.He asked me what load I was using and then replied that at that velocity it will only take one round to ruin my barrel.