Is the 7mm Backcountry a Gimmick or Game Changer?
BY Herschel Smith
1 week, 4 days ago
Of course, Federal didn’t name this cartridge the “Competition LaserBeam.” They named it the “Backcountry,” and their current offerings all feature hunting bullets rather than match-grade pills. It’s obviously meant for hunting applications, and in that context, barrel life matters far less. Hunters may never shoot 2,000 rounds with a rifle, even if they use it every season for their entire lives. There are better options for competition shooters, but the Backcountry is meant for the field.
Okay, but wait a minute.
Many guys still have their father’s or even grandfather’s Marlin 30-30, mild recoiling and medium muzzle velocity, that has shot way more rounds than that through their barrels, and because of the mild velocity the rifle still works like a charm. It can be used today for deer hunting, and if kept in good condition, can be turned over to their sons for use with the same type of hunting.
Gun lifetime matters. And that’s one reason I will probably avoid something like the 7mm Backcountry. The chamber pressure and muzzle velocity are a bit too high for my tastes.
On April 15, 2025 at 1:08 pm, Latigo Morgan said:
I get that they have to keep innovating to keep their company afloat. Doesn’t mean I have to get rid of my 7mm Rem Mag and buy the latest widget, though. I’ll let other folks keep up with the Joneses.
On April 16, 2025 at 8:16 am, Don W Curton said:
The entire purpose of new calibers is to sell another rifle/pistol to the guy that already has 15-20 firearms or more. Very small to non-existent chance that new calibers sell to new shooters.