In recent years, more and more tactical precision rifle shooters have become dissatisfied with traditional cartridge performance and are searching for something better. Indeed, at ranges past 400 meters, their loss of velocity and energy is so pronounced that terminal ballistic capability is quickly reduced to something akin to a handgun.

In addition, even at ranges inside 400 meters, some traditional cartridges demonstrate less than satisfactory penetration through intermediary obstacles such as window glass, light vegetation or automobile bodywork.

The problem is a tough one to solve, because in order to increase the power of the cartridge used, another element begins to come into play…recoil. Few can withstand the pounding of the more potent calibers and this is one major reason why cartridges like the .308 remain popular. Putting it in another way, they’re regarded as being about the most potent cartridge the average rifleman can handle.