.375 CheyTAC

The .375 CheyTac was developed as a part of the evolution of long-range shooting cartridges, building upon the reputation of its predecessor, the .408 CheyTac. Originating in the early 2000s, the cartridge was designed by the Cheyenne Tactical company in response to demands for exceptional performance beyond the traditional reach of military and law enforcement sniper systems. While the CheyTac name is often associated with extreme long-range precision, the .375 variant distinguishes itself by offering a more balanced approach, providing superior ballistic coefficients, enhanced sectional density, and reduced recoil compared to the larger .408 caliber. Over the years, this has made the .375 CheyTac a favorite among extreme long-range shooting enthusiasts and precision reloaders aiming to push the boundaries of what centerfire rifles can achieve.

In terms of applications, the .375 CheyTac is most renowned for its effectiveness in extreme long-range, or ELR, target competitions. The cartridge is purpose-built for distances where accurate hits beyond 2,000 yards are common, and it excels in scenarios demanding the utmost in ballistic performance. Precision shooters and reloaders have adopted the .375 CheyTac for use in custom bolt-action rifles and purpose-built platforms specifically tuned for long-range shooting. Additionally, some law enforcement and military units have tested or employed the round for specialized anti-materiel or counter-sniper roles, though its civilian shooting pedigree is far more extensive. Handloaders, in particular, appreciate the cartridge for the challenge and rewards it presents at the reloading bench, as minor changes in bullet seating, case preparation, and propellant choice can yield significant improvements in downrange trajectory and wind resistance.

While the .375 CheyTac is not commonly used for typical hunting applications due to its size, cost, and overpowered nature, it has proven effective on large game in hunting scenarios that demand extreme accuracy at long range. Its enormous kinetic energy at impact and superior ballistics make it theoretically suitable for game such as elk, moose, and African plains game when long-range shots are required. However, its most prominent role is still within the discipline of ELR shooting, where the target species is steel plates and paper targets at distances that test the limits of both shooter and rifle. For reloaders, the precise nature of the cartridge’s performance means every load can be tailored for optimal drift and drop characteristics, further enhancing its appeal.

Typical bullet weights for the .375 CheyTac range from 350 to 400 grains, with the 350-grain lathe-turned solid bullets being especially favored among ELR competitors due to their exceptionally high ballistic coefficients—often exceeding .900 G1 BC. These projectiles retain velocity and energy across vast distances, maintain a flatter trajectory, and resist wind drift more effectively than lighter alternatives. The cartridge generally features a long neck and a large powder capacity, which enables consistent burning of slow-burning magnum powders, another detail that appeals to experienced reloaders who value tuning their loads for maximum consistency and minimal velocity spread. Muzzle velocities typically range from 2,850 to 3,100 feet per second, depending on barrel length and handload details. The .375 CheyTac’s combination of manageable recoil, superior long-range ballistics, and reloading flexibility solidifies its reputation as an elite choice for those who are passionate about precision shooting at the very outer limits of rifle performance.