Flat shooting and hard-hitting, the .325 WSM is the small cartridge zeroed in to tackle big game.
What You Need To Know About The .325 WSM:
- Designed to stop North American big game.
- Delivers similar energies as the .338 Winchester Magnum.
- It uses the .300 WSM case necked up to 8mm.
Historical Notes:
After introducing its Short Magnum family of cartridges in 2000, Winchester recognized the need for another cartridge capable of launching 200-grain bullets (and heavier) with high inherent accuracy, energy capable of stopping the largest North American game and lower perceived recoil.
After considering different calibers, Winchester engineers determined the .325 caliber provided the best performance using the Short Magnum case. Released in 2005, the new .325 WSM cartridge delivers similar energies as the .338 Winchester Magnum, while using a smaller case.
General Comments:
In addition to delivering excellent ballistics, the .325 WSM also exhibits exceptional accuracy. Initially, Winchester fielded three loads for the .325 WSM: a 200-grain Nosler AccuBond CT, a Winchester 220-grain Power-Point bullet and a 180-grain Ballistic Silvertip.
Hunters can expect delayed, controlled expansion and deep penetration through thick, tough skin and heavy muscle tissue and bone, with ballistic coefficients ranging up to .477 for the 200-grain Nosler bullet. The .325 WSM is well suited for elk, bear, moose or other large and dangerous game, where a lightweight short magnum rifle is desired.
Editor’s Note: This article is an excerpt from Cartridges of the World, 16th Edition.
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