First Impressions of **Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
F257100SCO $4.60 Off**
The Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F257100SCO $4.60 Off promises a blend of flat-shooting performance and controlled expansion, characteristics that have defined the .257 Weatherby Magnum since its inception. As a seasoned hunter and tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for ammunition that delivers both precision and terminal effectiveness, and this offering from Weatherby piqued my interest with its Swift Scirocco bullet. Is this ammunition the ideal choice for taking down medium-sized game at extended ranges?
My pursuit of this specific ammunition stemmed from a recurring challenge during western hunts: ethical, long-range shots on game like mule deer and pronghorn in open terrain. I needed a cartridge that could buck the wind and deliver consistent results beyond 300 yards, a feat that many standard hunting rounds struggle to achieve.
Upon receiving the ammunition, I was immediately impressed by the clean, consistent appearance of the brass cases and the sleek profile of the Swift Scirocco bullets. The box, while standard, felt solid, protecting the rounds well during shipping. Compared to other .257 Weatherby Magnum loads I’ve used, such as those featuring heavier, traditional lead-core bullets, the Weatherby Select Plus with the Swift Scirocco felt more refined, more focused on maximizing ballistic coefficient and downrange energy.
I chose this ammunition over others primarily because of the Swift Scirocco bullet’s reputation for high ballistic coefficient and controlled expansion. Many competing rounds sacrifice one for the other, either offering exceptional long-range trajectory but poor terminal performance, or vice versa. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism, eager to see if the Weatherby Select Plus ammunition lived up to its potential on the range and in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
F257100SCO $4.60 Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, known for its 500-yard capabilities. I mounted a trusted, high-magnification scope on my Weatherby Mark V rifle chambered in .257 Weatherby Magnum and began the sighting-in process. The weather was mild with a slight crosswind, providing a realistic scenario for long-range shooting.
The Weatherby Select Plus ammunition performed admirably, consistently grouping within 1 MOA at 100 yards after proper sighting. The recoil, while stout, was manageable, and the muzzle velocity seemed to align closely with the advertised specifications. No malfunctions were observed, and the spent brass ejected cleanly and consistently.
One minor surprise was the relatively clean burning of the powder, leaving minimal residue in the rifle’s action. This is a notable advantage, simplifying post-shooting cleaning and maintenance.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months, I subjected the Weatherby Select Plus ammunition to a variety of conditions, from hot, dry range days to cold, damp hunts in the high country. The ammunition remained reliable, exhibiting no noticeable changes in performance regardless of the environment.
Durability has been excellent; the brass cases have held up well to repeated reloading (a critical factor for Weatherby Magnum owners), and the Swift Scirocco bullets have maintained their shape and integrity even after being carried in a hunting pack for extended periods. The ease of maintenance is high; the clean-burning powder minimizes fouling and simplifies cleaning the rifle after each use.
Compared to my previous experiences with other .257 Weatherby Magnum loads, the Weatherby Select Plus ammunition delivers significantly flatter trajectories and more consistent terminal performance. This is especially noticeable at distances beyond 300 yards, where the Swift Scirocco bullet’s high ballistic coefficient truly shines.
Breaking Down the Features of **Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
F257100SCO $4.60 Off**
Specifications
The Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F257100SCO $4.60 Off boasts the following key specifications:
- Caliber: .257 Weatherby Magnum. This cartridge is known for its high velocity and flat trajectory.
- Bullet Weight: 100 grain. A good compromise between velocity and energy for medium-sized game.
- Bullet Type: Swift Scirocco Soft Point Boat Tail (SPBT). Designed for high ballistic coefficient and controlled expansion.
- Case Material: Brass. Allows for reloading, extending the ammunition’s value.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Standard for modern rifle ammunition, ensuring reliable ignition.
- Number of Rounds: 20. Typical quantity for a box of centerfire rifle ammunition.
- Application: Hunting. Optimized for taking down medium-sized game animals.
- Lead Free: No. Contains lead, which may be restricted in some areas.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the ammunition’s performance characteristics, influencing factors such as trajectory, wind resistance, and terminal ballistics. The Swift Scirocco bullet’s design, coupled with the high velocity of the .257 Weatherby Magnum, creates a potent combination for ethical and effective hunting at extended ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum ammunition excels in its intended role: delivering accurate, reliable, and devastating performance on medium-sized game. Its accuracy is exceptional, consistently producing sub-MOA groups from my rifle at 100 yards, a testament to the quality of the components and the precision of the loading process.
The ammunition’s key strength lies in its combination of flat trajectory and controlled expansion. The Swift Scirocco bullet maintains its velocity and resists wind drift remarkably well, allowing for precise shot placement even at longer distances. Upon impact, the bullet expands reliably, creating a large wound cavity and ensuring a quick, humane kill.
While the ammunition’s performance is generally excellent, one potential area for improvement could be the availability of alternative bullet weights. A heavier bullet option might be desirable for hunters pursuing larger game or hunting in areas with dense cover.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Weatherby Select Plus ammunition is straightforward and functional, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. The brass cases are clean and consistent, and the Swift Scirocco bullets are uniformly shaped and sized.
The ammunition is user-friendly, requiring no special handling or preparation. Simply load the cartridges into the rifle’s magazine and chamber them as normal.
Durability & Maintenance
The Weatherby Select Plus ammunition is designed for long-term storage and repeated use. The brass cases are durable and reloadable, extending the ammunition’s lifespan and value.
Maintenance is minimal; simply store the ammunition in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion and degradation. The clean-burning powder minimizes fouling in the rifle’s action, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum ammunition is inherently compatible with a wide range of accessories designed for rifles chambered in .257 Weatherby Magnum. This includes various scope mounts, bipods, and slings.
While the ammunition itself offers limited customization options, reloaders can experiment with different powder charges and primers to fine-tune performance to their specific rifle and hunting conditions. The brass cases are compatible with standard reloading dies and equipment.
Pros and Cons of **Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
F257100SCO $4.60 Off**
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups from a quality rifle.
- Flat trajectory: Maximizes effective range and simplifies aiming at longer distances.
- Controlled expansion: Ensures reliable and humane kills on medium-sized game.
- Reloadable brass cases: Extends the ammunition’s value and allows for custom loads.
- Clean-burning powder: Reduces fouling and simplifies rifle maintenance.
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to other .257 Weatherby Magnum offerings.
- Limited bullet weight options may not suit all hunting scenarios.
Who Should Buy **Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
F257100SCO $4.60 Off**?
This ammunition is perfect for experienced hunters who prioritize accuracy, flat trajectory, and reliable terminal performance on medium-sized game at extended ranges. It is an excellent choice for hunters pursuing mule deer, pronghorn, and similar species in open terrain.
This ammunition may not be the best choice for novice hunters or those who primarily hunt at short ranges. The higher cost and potential for over-penetration on smaller game may make it less suitable for these applications.
A must-have accessory for this ammunition is a high-quality, high-magnification scope with accurate windage and elevation adjustments. A laser rangefinder is also highly recommended for precise shot placement at longer distances.
Conclusion on **Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
F257100SCO $4.60 Off**
The Weatherby Select Plus .257 Magnum 100 Grain Swift Scirocco Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition F257100SCO $4.60 Off is a premium hunting load that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its combination of flat trajectory, controlled expansion, and reloadable brass cases makes it a top choice for serious hunters who demand the best.
While the price is higher than some competing rounds, the performance benefits justify the investment for those who value accuracy and ethical hunting. The Weatherby Select Plus ammunition represents a significant upgrade over standard lead-core bullets, delivering flatter trajectories, better wind resistance, and more consistent terminal ballistics.
I would highly recommend this ammunition to any experienced hunter seeking to maximize the potential of their .257 Weatherby Magnum rifle. If you are serious about long-range hunting and demand the best possible performance, the Weatherby Select Plus ammunition is an excellent choice. Step up your game and experience the difference that premium ammunition can make – your next hunt depends on it!