Gun Talk's Ryan Gresham recently embarked on a cow elk hunt in the northern fringes of New Mexico, a hunt that combined the thrill of the chase with a showcase of cutting-edge firearms technology. Armed with the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT and Federal Premium’s revolutionary 7mm Backcountry cartridge, Ryan’s adventure became a testament to innovation in hunting gear.
Typically, by this time of year, Ryan has wrapped up his gifts and hunting season. However, this year he had the opportunity to chase cow elk with a brand-new cartridge and firearm. Ryan’s choice of firearm, the Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT, is well-suited for such demanding conditions. Its ergonomic design, lightweight construction, and precision make it an exceptional tool for hunters. Pair this with the 7mm Backcountry cartridge from Federal Premium, and you have a setup that not only meets but exceeds expectations for long-range accuracy, power, and reliability. But what is the 7mm Backcountry?
The 7mm Backcountry cartridge represents a seismic shift in what hunters can expect from ammunition. Developed over six years, it’s designed to deliver magnum-level performance from a standard bolt-face rifle, all thanks to Federal’s patented Peak Alloy™ case technology. This high-strength steel alloy allows the cartridge to handle chamber pressures of up to 80,000 psi, enabling velocities that rival magnum rounds—without the added recoil.
This meant hitting speeds of 3,000 feet per second with 170-grain bullets through the Ridgeline’s 20-inch barrel. “The flat trajectory and energy retention downrange were astonishing,” he said. “Even at longer distances, the elk never stood a chance.”
Perhaps the best part: Ryan could utilize the Dead Air Nomad suppressor. If you shoot this gun with a comp, you better be ready to have your innards shaken.
The hunt unfolded while navigating rocky terrain and snow-riddled brush. Elk are notoriously elusive, and taking one down requires more than just good aim—it demands reliable equipment that performs under pressure.
The Ridgeline proved its worth, offering steady handling and pinpoint accuracy. Coupled with the 7mm Backcountry, the setup delivered consistent results even in challenging conditions.
At the shot, Ryan engaged a cow elk at a range of approximately 400 yards. This distance is often a make-or-break moment for hunters. With the 7mm Backcountry’s heavy-for-caliber 170-grain bullet and the Ridgeline’s stability, the shot was not only manageable but efficient. The bullet’s high ballistic coefficient ensured minimal drop, and the bonded construction of the Terminal Ascent projectile delivered lethal performance. Shots like this aren’t to be taken lightly; if you’re going to shoot this far, you better dang sure practice these distances.
So, why will the 7mm Backcountry stick around?
The 7mm Backcountry’s versatility is a standout feature. While many hunters are moving toward shorter barrels to accommodate suppressors, this often comes at the cost of velocity and accuracy. Federal’s innovation mitigates this trade-off, delivering blistering speeds even from a 20-inch barrel. For us hunters, this means we can navigate rougher landscapes with a more compact rifle without sacrificing performance.
The cartridge’s ability to pair with heavy bullets also enhances its appeal. Federal’s Terminal Ascent 170-grain bullet, for instance, combines deep penetration with reliable expansion, making it ideal for big game like elk. Other load options, such as the Berger Elite Hunter 195-grain bullet with its incredible ballistic coefficient of .755, add to the cartridge’s flexibility.
When comparing Federal Premium’s new 7mm Backcountry to established cartridges like the 7mm Remington Magnum, 7 SAUM (Short Action Ultra Magnum), .300 Remington Ultra Mag, and .280 Remington, the Backcountry sets itself apart with a combination of groundbreaking innovation and practical advantages.
The 7mm Rem Mag has long been a favorite for hunters, known for its flat trajectory and effective terminal performance. However, it typically requires longer barrels to maximize velocity—often around 24 inches. In contrast, the 7mm Backcountry achieves similar, if not superior, performance with shorter barrels (20 inches), making it more maneuverable and suppressor-friendly. The 7mm Backcountry’s Peak Alloy™ case technology allows for velocities of 3,000 fps with a 170-grain bullet, surpassing the Rem Mag while maintaining lower recoil.
The 7 SAUM offers excellent performance in short-action rifles and delivers magnum-level ballistics. Yet, its popularity has waned due to limited ammunition availability and the rise of newer cartridges. The 7mm Backcountry provides similar compact handling but with higher velocity potential, greater ballistic coefficients, and increased energy downrange—all while utilizing a long-action design for greater versatility with heavy-for-caliber bullets.
The .300 RUM is a powerhouse cartridge designed for long-range shooting and taking down the largest game. While it delivers immense energy and velocity, it comes with significant drawbacks, including excessive recoil, barrel wear, and the need for longer, heavier rifles. The 7mm Backcountry achieves magnum-like performance in a non-magnum cartridge, offering a more comfortable shooting experience with reduced felt recoil and greater practicality in shorter, lighter rifles.
Perhaps the closest relative to the 7mm Backcountry is the .280 Remington. Both are 7mm cartridges, but they cater to very different needs. The .280 Remington, introduced in 1957, is a classic hunting cartridge based on the .30-06 Springfield case. It offers velocities of 2,800–3,000 fps with 140–160-grain bullets when fired from a 24-inch barrel. It operates at a maximum pressure of ~60,000 psi and is well-suited for traditional hunting scenarios within 400–500 yards.
However, its performance is heavily dependent on longer barrels, and it is best used in standard-weight rifles. Recoil is moderate, making it comfortable for most shooters, and it remains a favorite among hunters seeking a versatile cartridge for deer, elk, and similar game.
The 7mm Backcountry is a beast of another color. It represents a modern innovation in cartridge design, utilizing high-strength Peak Alloy™ cases that allow it to operate at an unprecedented 80,000 psi. This design delivers blistering velocities from shorter barrels. For example, the 155-grain Terminal Ascent bullet achieves 3,300 fps from a 24-inch barrel, 3,150 fps from a 20-inch barrel, and 3,000 fps from a 16.5-inch barrel.
The cartridge is optimized for heavy, high-ballistic-coefficient bullets like the 195-grain Berger Elite Hunter, which reaches 3,000 fps from a 24-inch barrel and 2,850 fps from a 20-inch barrel. Designed for backcountry hunters and long-range enthusiasts, it excels in compact rifles with suppressors, providing magnum-like performance with reduced felt recoil. Unlike the .280 Remington, the 7mm Backcountry is purpose-built to maintain high performance in shorter barrels, making it ideal for modern hunting trends that prioritize mobility and maneuverability.
While the .280 Remington remains a reliable choice for traditional hunting, the 7mm Backcountry pushes the boundaries of cartridge performance. It combines speed, energy, and adaptability to shorter barrels, making it a game-changer for hunters seeking cutting-edge technology in the field.
The 7mm Backcountry redefines what hunters can expect from a non-magnum cartridge, blending the best attributes of its predecessors with cutting-edge advancements.
Ryan’s northern New Mexico elk hunt wasn’t just about a hunt—it was a demonstration of how far hunting technology has come. The Christensen Arms Ridgeline and Federal’s 7mm Backcountry cartridge worked seamlessly together, proving that modern innovations can elevate a hunt to extraordinary levels.
As Federal Premium and Christensen Arms continue to push the envelope, hunters like Ryan can look forward to even more groundbreaking gear that enhances both performance and the overall hunting experience. Whether you’re trekking through the terrain of New Mexico or scouting in your local woods, the right setup can make all the difference. ~ KJ
KJ
Kevin Jarnagin (KJ) hails from Oklahoma but quickly established Louisiana roots after joining the Gun Talk team. KJ grew up as a big-game hunter and often finds himself in different ventures. His early career had him working with one of the finest PR agencies in the outdoor industry—Blue Heron Communications. Before that, KJ molded the minds of business school students at the University of Oklahoma. Quickly learning he had to grow up sometime, KJ dedicated himself to the outdoors no matter what it took.
Sporting his flat-brimmed cap, KJ traverses the country in pursuit of the greatest game and best adventures. Whether it’s making his way to British Columbia for elk or training with pistols, KJ always seems to find a gun in his hands and adventure on his mind. KJ is a skilled communicator and connector in an industry that he has loved since childhood.
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