It is the case that .408 and .375 CT are cousins, but they are certainly not the same, despite the fact that each is, in its own way, ideal for extreme long-range (ELR) shooting. That being said, here are some of the ways that these two cartridges differ.

What .375 CheyTac Ammo Does Better

Loaded with a bullet that weighs between 350 and 375 grains, .375 CheyTac ammo delivers muzzle velocities between 3000 and 3200 FPS and muzzle energies between 6800 and 7500 ft-lbs. It has an exceptionally high BC at .988 and an effective range of greater than 2500 yards.

Compared to .408 CT, .375 CheyTac ammo is a faster, lighter cartridge than .408 CT, and as such, delivers a flatter trajectory and resists wind drift better than the latter. If the goal is to hit a target at extreme ranges, the .375 shoots flatter and can be considered superior.

For competitive shooting, .375 CheyTac ammo offers slightly greater precision, especially where greater precision and longer distances is desired, but stopping power is not a concern, or is a secondary concern.

Where .408 CT Takes the Edge

In contrast to the .375 CT, .408 CheyTac ammo is loaded with heavier bullets weighing between 419 and 420 grains. It produces lower muzzle velocities between 2800 to 3000 FPS and higher muzzle energies between 7700 and 8000 ft-lbs. It also has an extremely long effective range at 2500 yards, though the BC is just a hair lower at .949.

Since it produces more energy and is loaded with a heavier bullet, .408 CT carries more energy to the target. This makes it more effective at extreme ranges for incapacitating a target, making it the preferred choice where penetration and energy are concerns for anti-materiel applications.

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, both of these are excellent ELR cartridges for long-range shooting, whether the objective is to score in competition or dispatch a target. It’s just that there are some minor differences between them that you should understand before you choose one for your rifle.

Of course, some platforms like the M200 Intervention rifle come with interchangeable barrels and are capable of chambering and firing both (with the appropriate barrel installed). Nonetheless, it benefits you to know the differences between them so that you know which to choose if it comes down to it.

Where to Get Either

Both .408 and .375 CheyTac ammo are extremely niche cartridges that you are very unlikely to encounter at most typical gun shops. Unless you load it yourself, you’ll need to know some specialty shop where you can get it. Actually, you’ll probably need that even if you do load it yourself so you can get brass and bullets.

That shop is B&B Firearms, which expressly specializes in extreme long-range and precision rifle shooting. They carry some of the industry’s top platforms, such as the M200 Intervention which is built around the two cartridges mentioned here, along with ammo.

That includes .375 and .408 CT. For more information, visit their website or get in touch with them.

For more information about Long Range Rifles and Cadex Defense Please visit: B&B Firearms LLC.