“.275 rigby”

Want to build a custom rifle but don't know where to start? Contributor Philip Massaro offers a few tips he learned throughout the process.

Which of these cartridges represents the wisest choice for hunters, and why should you prefer one over the other? Contributor Philip Massaro examines the pros and cons of each.

Contributor Philip Massaro shares some of his favorite rifles and loads for different bear hunting scenarios.

Loosely based on a shortened .404 Jeffery case with the rim rebated to the .535-inch case head of the H&H family, the .270 WSM was the third commercial cartridge using the .277-inch bore diameter, and betters the velocity of the .270 Winchester by 200 to 250 fps.

The .350 Rigby Magnum is vastly overlooked even among rifle cranks but was at one time as popular as the .375 H&H Magnum. Released in 1908, it is an entirely original design, and was the first to feature the sharp 45-degree shoulder which is the hallmark of the Rigby designs.

Fitting the niche between the 6.5 PRC and .300 PRC, Hornady’s brand-new 7mm PRC cartridge delivers long, high-BC bullets in a long-action receiver, and temperature-stable, magnum speed propellants for consistent velocity and extended barrel life.

If you want a cartridge that will handle deer and bear at woods distances in any state while providing the capability of being a rock-solid defensive cartridge, the .450 Bushmaster should have a place near the top of the list.

Despite the magnum moniker, the .327 Federal Magnum is a pleasure to shoot, giving it a lot of flexibility. It is a viable defensive cartridge, and in a hunting rifle, is a great choice for when shot distances are on the shorter end of the spectrum.

The goal was to build a magnum-class cartridge in a small package, and Weatherby has done just that with its 6.5 Weatherby RPM, featuring a rebated rim, large body diameter, low body taper and 35-degree shoulder.