.375 H&H Magnum vs .375 Ruger
Typical factory loads side by side: speed, energy, BC, twist, range and what each one is built for.
The short answer
With typical loads, the .375 Ruger is about 130 ft/s faster at the muzzle (2,530 vs 2,660 ft/s).
The .375 Ruger carries about 11% more energy at the muzzle (4,713 vs 4,263 ft-lbs), which usually also means more recoil.
On the same size target, the .375 Ruger has the longer point-blank range (255 yd), so you can hold dead-on a bit farther without adjusting.
Side by side
| .375 H&H Magnum | .375 Ruger | |
|---|---|---|
| Made for | Designed for African dangerous game; the standard for Cape buffalo and big brown bear. | Modern beltless .375 that beats the H&H's speed in a standard-length action. |
| Typical load | 300 grsoft point | 300 grDGX |
| Muzzle speed | 2,530 ft/s | 2,660 ft/s |
| Muzzle energy | 4,263 ft-lbs | 4,713 ft-lbs |
| Typical BC (G1) | ≈ 0.30typical, varies by brand | 0.275maker's published G1 |
| Twist rate | 1:12 | 1:12 |
| Practical range | 250–300 yd | 250 yd |
| Point-blank range | 243 yd6" vital zone | 255 yd6" vital zone |
| Recommended platform | Heavy rifle, 9 lb+Very heavy recoil; not for ultralights or beginners | Bolt rifle, 9–10 lbHeavy but manageable |
Which one fits you?
.375 H&H Magnum: Designed for African dangerous game; the standard for Cape buffalo and big brown bear.
.375 Ruger: Modern beltless .375 that beats the H&H's speed in a standard-length action.
For most hunters, the right pick is the one you can shoot accurately and comfortably, in a rifle that fits how you hunt. Good shot placement and a bullet built for your game matter more than small differences on paper.
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Speed, energy and BC are typical figures for the listed load; real numbers vary by brand, lot and barrel length. Always check the ammo maker's data for your exact load.