WSM - Feeding Issues
Based on the ballistics, I am really interested in a WSM caliber, but I have heard about all sorts of feeding issues with the WSM line from all gun makers (some more than others)- seems to be inherent in the cartridge design, although there seems to be no consensus at to the actual reason. I only have one hunting friend who owns a WSM and his Remington 700 has feeding issues that he has not been able to resolve at all (basically treats it as a single shot now). Is this still an issue or have manufacturers been able to figure this issue out and correct or should I avoid the WSM's all together?
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I am not sure where you got your consensous from, but most people love them, and I am fairly sure, that no manufacturer would keep producing them with a known problem. I have personally shot two different 300 WSM's, one was a Tikka, and the other was fed from a modified M-14 magazine. They were flawless, in their feeding. I have seen the Browning A-Bolt II's, and Winchester Model 70's at the range...I actually have a model 70 in 25 WSSM..., and have seen no feeding issues.
I do believe that the issues, if there were any, have been cleared up. Your friend should take his 700 to someone who knows what they are doing, as I am sure it is something simple.
Best
EDIT 1:
Really, FWIW, I would stick with the regular length counterparts if you are that concerned. In factory loads, for example, the 300 WSM equalls the 300 Win Mag. However, when it comes to handloading, there is no way the WSM can keep up, when using the proper barrel length.
I would be concerned about Kimber. I know there were reliability issues with some of their 1911's also. Especially the alloy framed ones.0 -
tsr1965 - thanks for the input, one can do a little research and see tons of consistent comments on feeding problems with WSMs (that is what is prompting my concern - "smoke/fire" thing). Like I said I only have personal knowledge of one and it has a feeding problem - which only helps support my concern. Rifles Inc., a well known custom rifle maker, at one time had a disclaimer on their site stating that they would not guarantee the accuracy of any WSM calibers (however that factors in I am not sure). I know that the internet is full of good information and bad information and sifting through the validity of what the keyboard commandos are putting out there is virtually impossible. Just loooking for as much reliable, first-hand information that I can get before making a decision. I've heard nightmares about the Kimbers - and that is what I wanted to get! 0 -
Perhaps the design of the Short/Magnum cartridge allows for little tolerance in feeding error. One of the smoothest feeding cartridges the 300H&H is totally opposed in design to a short/magnum. It is not as efficient in burning but slides in right and stacks right.
Every thing is a compromise & no one thing right for everyone.0 -
Having two in the house, 270 WSM and a 25 WSSM. I have not seen any feeding problems. Most likly something wrong with that Remington, bent mag lip, don't know. Taking to gun smith would be good idea.
On the flip side, I bet your friend makes sure that one shot counts[:)]0 -
I have a Browning with feeding issues. The box is so short that factory ammo hits the end of the box before the bullet has a chance to start its upward movement. Handloading and seating 1/10 inch deeper solves the problem at the expense of case volume. Moderate loads are required. All said and done if I had it to do over I would stick with a classic tried and true from the 308 or -06 family. 0 -
famouswolf,
I haven't had any feeding issues with any of my WSM's. Nor has my Brother with his.
However, the WSM/WSSM cases are much heavier than standard cases. If you don't fully resize you can get a lot of resistance while chambering/un-chambering a round. Just make sure you have a little cam-over when sizing these. I neck-size every other load and full length alternately. I also don't load these to max. I get the performance I need at reduced loads.
-hope that helps.0
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