Is one better than the other? No, not in the real world. However, two major ammo companies load for the 300 WSM, only one (Remington) loads for the 300 SAUM, so you have more choices of factory loaded ammo with the WSM (this doesn' t apply if you handload).

Yeah, the A-Bolt only has a 23" barrel, but if you' re looking at a Rem. Model 7 it only has a 22" barrel (and most ballistics tables I' ve seen in these calibers have been based on a 24" test bbl.). If you are thinking about the Remington Sendero, yeah it' s got a longer barrel (26" ), but to me it defeats the purpose of a " Short & Fat" magnum (to make a light easy to handle magnum, that doesn' t absolutely abuse the shooter when it' s shot). Anyway, for every inch of barrel length you take away you are only talking about losing probably 30-50 fps, not that big of a deal in the real world with these cartridges.

I love my A-Bolt 300 WSM (it doesn' t hurt that it is the most accurate rifle I own). Whichever you choose I' m sure you will enjoy. My advise, pick the rifle first, then figure out what you want to chamber it for.

Gordon