7 mm Rem. SA Ultra Mag Load Data

The 7mm Remington Short Action Ultra Magnum (SA Ultra Mag), introduced in the early 2000s by Remington Arms, was designed to extend magnum-class ballistics to short-action rifle configurations. Building on the successful Ultra Mag line, the 7mm SA Ultra Mag sought to provide shooters with a powerful cartridge capable of high velocity and flat trajectories in a compact package. Its design stems from a shortened, fattened version of the original Remington Ultra Magnum case, providing a substantial powder capacity without the need for an elongated action. While it enjoyed a brief period of attention among enthusiasts, it ultimately faced stiff competition from other short magnum cartridges, which affected its widespread adoption and commercial longevity. Nonetheless, its performance and unique appeal have maintained a dedicated following, particularly among reloaders and aficionados of magnum-class cartridges.

In terms of application, the 7mm SA Ultra Mag excels as a versatile choice for a variety of big-game hunting scenarios. Its high velocity and flat trajectory optimize it for open country hunts, allowing hunters to take advantage of longer shooting distances without excessive holdover. The cartridge delivers ample energy for medium to large game, making it suitable for species such as mule deer, elk, pronghorn, and even moose when using appropriate bullet constructions. Its manageable recoil, relative to larger magnums, also makes it accessible for a broader range of shooters seeking performance without excessive punishment to the shoulder. Many competitive shooters have also experimented with this caliber in long-range target disciplines, although its primary reputation remains as a hunting cartridge.

The targeted species list for the 7mm SA Ultra Mag includes a wide variety of North American big game. With bullet weights ranging from 140 to 175 grains, reloaders can tailor their ammunition for everything from whitetail deer to elk and black bear. Lighter bullets (140–150 grains) are preferred for smaller game or open prairie situations where flat shooting is paramount, while heavier bullets (160–175 grains) are ideal for larger game where deeper penetration and energy transfer are critical. The cartridge’s high velocity and excellent ballistic coefficients, especially when using modern streamlined bullets, translate into impressive downrange performance and retained energy.

Unique characteristics of the 7mm SA Ultra Mag include its short, fat cartridge design, which contributes to efficient powder burn and consistent ignition. This makes it especially attractive for reloaders seeking precision and repeatability. The 7mm caliber is also notable for outstanding sectional density and ballistic coefficients, which contribute to both long-range accuracy and terminal effectiveness. While brass and factory loads can be less common compared to more established cartridges, attention to case preparation and proper reloading practices allows enthusiasts to extract maximum performance and longevity from this specialty magnum round. For dedicated reloaders, the 7mm Rem. SA Ultra Mag presents a rewarding balance of magnum power and manageable recoil within a compact, efficient package.