Norma of Sweden introduced this powerful medium bore cartridge in 1959. It is based on a standard length belted magnum case much like a .338 Winchester Magnum case with the shoulder moved .0443" forward.

Factory loads are available from Norma and A-Square. The Norma factory load uses a 250 grain Woodleigh Weldcore bullet at a MV of 2799 fps and ME of 4350 ft. lbs. At 200 yards the velocity is 2112 fps and the energy is 2478 ft. lbs. The Norma trajectory figures show this bullet hitting +2.2" at 100 yards, 0 at 200 yards, and -10.0" at 300 yards.

The Speer Reloading Manual Number 13 shows that 65.0 grains of IMR 4895 powder can drive their 180 grain bullet (SD = .201) to a MV of 2943 fps, and 69.0 grains of IMR 4895 can drive that bullet to a MV of 3133 fps. This is a deadly deer bullet for the .358 Norma, but should not be used on larger game.

The 250 grain bullet (SD = .279) can be driven to a MV of 2581 fps by 72.0 grains of IMR 4350 powder, and 2732 fps by 76.0 grains of IMR 4350. 250 grains is the most popular bullet weight, and seems to be the consensus choice as representing the best balance between velocity, energy, sectional density and recoil for use on most heavy or dangerous game in the .358 Norma cartridge. The .358 Norma treads close on the heels of the famous .375 H&H and it is often compared to that cartridge, as well as the 9.3x62mm.

Note: A complete article about the .358 Norma Mag. can be found on the Rifle Cartridge Page.