My 338 now 44 years old . Never let me down . Love the thunder and lightning . First 30 years used 250gr Partitions . Tudor Howard Davies used a pre 64 with 300gr Colorado Arms fmj for ages as a back up in his ph days . Never let him down either .
“ I almost never shoot over 300 yards cause I’m a good hunter.” Haha love it. Your totally right the bullet won’t open up slower than 1800-2000 fps. One shot one kill.
Always liked .338 Win Mag, it's bigger than I would ever need but I really like it. As a Gun Salesman for many years, I always told people it was a standard caliber, not a flash in the pan like many others. Thanks, Mike.
Ah, finally some solid info on .338 Win Mag on UA-cam. Kudos on the logo and intro. Might I add that .338 WM has a small but faithful following here in Russia. It’s perfect for a red stag brown bear moose and is pretty much a guaranteed drop for a hog. I prefer it to the 9,3 because of the flatter trajectory and I don’t mind the recoil. I find it fun to be honest.
@ching chong Depending on the region. If it's a remote place there's a very limited selection of ammo so naturally, there are only .22LR, 5.45x39, 7.62x39, and 7.62x54R. The .308 is becoming very strong even in remote locations due to its versatility and adoption by Russian manufacturers. If you think of a mountainous region, then .300 Win Mag is the most popular choice. Close to me (Moscow) people adore the 9.3x62 and .300 WM. .223 is also very prominent.
@@darvinclement3250”controllable power”. Very well put. I really like 338 Win Mag. Along with pretty much all the medium bores. I remember firing my brother’s 338 WM. I want to say it’s just a small step above my hottest 325 WSM loads. Idk why it’s not but 8mm should be lumped in with medium bores. It fits right in imo. I mean who would like to mess around with an 8mm-06? But I digress. It’s hard to pick the top medium bore. But 338 WM has got to be close
I just bought a Montana rifle CO ALR in 338 win mag for my 26th birthday. I was fortunate to draw a tag for the inaugural bear season in Missouri this year hopefully get to put it to use in October and Elk in Colorado in Nov.
Finally someone who realizes that the heavier bullets per caliber perform better on big game in hunting situations. Good job reviewing the rifles from a hunters point of view.
I really like 338 calibers, my two favorite rifles in my collection one is 338 win mag and the other is 338 Lapua. I’ve never hunted with the Lapua it’s just too big and heavy for most hunting trips but the win mag is a beauty.
@David Wood The Lapua is really for shooting very long distances (1500+ yards) at non animal targets wearing body armor. It was developed as a sniper round and could certainly be used for hunting but the rifles that shoot it are typically heavy 26+ inch barrels, so unless you’re in a deer stand it would suck to lug it around. Plus there is really nothing to be gained from using a Lapua within 500 yards, it shines in the 1000+ yard shots and non survival hunting at those ranges is not ethical in my opinion. I just use it for distances target shooting which is a blast.
I made multiple trips to South Africa for plains game, and took 35 animals with 36 shots with the 338 Win Mg. Only had to shoot a Black Wildebeest twice because I shot too low across the brisket on the first shot. Second shot high shoulder put him down in tracks. Turned a 200 pound spring black bear upside down with all 4 feet in the air in Canada, and made a Texas heart shot from back to front on a West Texas Mule deer. Took them all down like a lightning bolt.
Excellent presentation as always. The .338 Win Mag is an oversized 7 x 57 regarding powder to bullet ratio and as such it is well balanced. Good shot placement with tough hunting bullets at reasonable distances is always essential for ethical harvesting of game! Stay within the limits of the cartridge that you can handle adequately regarding recoil and accuracy. Shoots at big game with cheap cup and core bullets in small calibers at unreasonable distances is definitely not ethical hunting.
I find that us gun nuts confuse the terms "want and need". My personal opinion is that a 30-06 can cover most of my needs. (I live in Africa). But who wants just one rifle?
An old riddle -- "The more you want it, the harder you try. The harder you try, the less you get it. The less you get it, the more you want it." Repeat....
Oh, I forgot about the .416. I remember watching a hunting film some 30 years ago about hunting on Alaska. They were showing how effective the .44 magnum could take the big bears at close range but they also showed the .416 Rigby as the rifle some hunters used. They had good TV back then.
As usual I'm late to the dinner table as Im just now seeing this video three months after it was first posted. It's another great one. It's amazing how flat a 35 Whelen can shoot. A couple of commenters have already mentioned it, but I think it's worth mentioning again that another cartridge to consider is the 338-06. Same bullets as the 338 Win Mag and out to 300 yards or maybe a little farther just as good with less recoil and muzzle blast. It's amazing what can be accomplished with that lowly old fashioned '06 case. Keep up the good work DD.
Great video. I have a 338 win mag. But honestly if I am going hunting anywhere in the lower 48 US for any game animal I’m gonna grab my 270 and be happy. If I’m going to Alaska and am going to run into bears I’ll take the 338 WM. PS my 338 likes 4350 and 225gr partitions. It shoots very accurately. Like 3 shots in a clover leaf at 100 off bench. I trust it. You always do good solid data driven videos man. Thanks.
Eye opening video. I prefer the 9.3x62, in this range. Some of it has to do with the fact it is pretty available in Canada. Up here barrels now all cost about the same as a new rifle, so that was just one more reason to go light on the powder burners. I agree on the 300 yards, and I would rather see shooters who want to stretch use a laser, you can throw as much powder as you want into a 338, it is still going to need a lot of hold over for those longer distances. So why not start there? Two other advantages to the 9.3, or 35. According to your experience you need to crimp your 338 ammo, in a meat hunt that means a minor opportunity to get better accuracy if you are shooting the guns that do not need a crimp. Not maybe major, but it is something. And the other thing is barrel length. For the same loss of hearing, you can shoot a handier 9.3.
Very good vid! I like how you have great respect for this great cartridge! Your input inspired me to further my choice in a great Magnum cartridge! 2022, 25 years of successful Moose hunts using my Rem700 30'06. I finally decided on a Belted Magnum. I got a modern ironsighted Winchester M70 set up with Leupold Quick Release mounts and VX2 3-9X40. I developed Nosler Partition 250gr accuracy loads. I've witnessed what this cartridge can do with a good set up. I know a headshot on Big Monster Yukon Moose with my rifle will get the job done! No crazy 500 plus yard unethical attempts here! As close as I can darn get for a clean headshot, always. The Moose Ribs are too valuable!
Thanks for this video. It has solidified our family's rifle set for Africa and Alaska. We will go with a .375 H&H and a 9.3x62. I really enjoy the details and history for your topics. Keep up the good work.
Jeeper is 💯 % correct. I would suggest keeping the 9.3x62 and moving up to the 416 Remington. The .375 is a useful and romantic cartridge, but it's redundant if you have the 9.3x62. *** If you're interested, there is a book out there (3 printings already) on the 9.3x62.
Another great informative video from someone who knows what they are talking about . model 70 458 video please, just bought one! Keep those videos them coming
Thank you for a very informative and practical video! I bench rest shot a bunch of .338 win mag rounds through a FN rifle. Sweetest shooting medium calibre I ever fired, lack of recoil surprised me. BUT: minimum calibre for dangerous game in South Africa is .375 H&H... This does not apply eg in Zimbabwe and other countries. I have a Sako full stock carbine in .375 H&H, but still dream of owning that .338 win mag. Too little practical difference between the calibres to buy a .338 win mag. It's a wife thing, I'll get to test the stopping power 1st hand..... SA girls can be very dangerous game, indeed!
Thanks for this, as the .338 Winny has always been a favorite of mine. About 30 years ago I had a 700 BDL that I had rebarreled in stainless and restocked by Brown Precision in Kalifornia. I was once of the mindset that no boolit under 250 gr would ever pollute its bore. I have changed my thinking. The lighter faster mono boolits perform better. Same penetration, flatter trajectory over responsible hunting distances and less recoil. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go get Winny and take her outside and make a large rock into several smaller rocks. Thanks, DD!
Awesome! I had Brown Precision build me a Kevlar stock many years ago for a mountain rifle project, and had them make a couple stocks after that over the years. Their facility burned down about 3-4 years ago, and the Brown family moved to Texas and restarted the business there. They are great people.
I think the only people with channels who have your kind of knowledge are Forgotten Weapons and Mischa. I think your bullet knowledge is much greater too. You should be well over 100K by now. Best of luck as I continue to learn.Thank you
Hi mate. I’ve watched a few of your videos now and enjoy your pragmatic approach to everything firearms and hunting related. I am a 338WM owner and it’s my go to for most of my hunting here in Australia. Currently I’m using 225gn Hornady Interbonds and with a R19 load got them going at 2860fps. In time I will need to consider an alternative and although Nosler has a 225gn offering, I’m staying open minded. I’m interested in your use of Barnes TTSX in the 338WM. I’ve seen the 180gn TTSX fail to expand past 250 meters out of my 300WM. I have a UA-cam video up of a mature Sambar stag I took with the TTSX. Took 3 shots at 260 meters, all on the money. To add I witnessed similar outcomes in other 300 caliber rifles also using the 180 TTSX. As a benchmark you could liken a Sambar to an Elk. Sambar are smaller but tough AF. I’ve concluded that I should have used a lighter TTSX in that rifle to get expansion at longer ranges. So back to the 338WM where I’ve shot 225 and 250gn projectiles I’m thinking a 210gn TTSX or lighter may be an option. Generally bush stalking would see me shoot Sambar under 100 meters however I’m the type of guy that develops one load and sticks to it. Unless it fails or is no longer available. So I’m interested in your experience in using Barnes projectiles specifically in your 338WM at longer ranges. Up close I’m happy with using them but cautious about using them past 250 meters based purely on past experience. Thanks in advance. Link to video I mentioned. ua-cam.com/video/63oF6eVTA8w/v-deo.html
I love my .338 win mag for elk and your video really educated me. I have never shot at any game over 300 yards with it either. If I did not already own two, then I would probably get a 300 win mag, but thanks for an very educational video.
I have owned at least one rifle in each of the Winchester belted magnums. All of them delivered velocity within 100 fps of the original advertised velocity. Finn Aagaard held the .458 in good regard. I have used the other three on game and have been satisfied. My least favorite was the .300; I rebarreled it to .30-338 but I could have lived with it. I like the 225 grain and 250 grain best for the .338. Nice presentation as always.
Yep, the 300WM is my least favorite of the practical magnums. Mainly due to lack of efficiency and SAAMI magazine specs that make it hard to load longer monos near the lands.
I'll do a video at some point. I started working on one after a few requests on a couple hunt camp mails earlier this year, but other channels started flooding youtube with Whelen videos (they use my HCM videos to mine content) and it killed my interest in doing the video. Maybe later if I feel up to it. But honestly, this 338 Win Mag video probably provides more REAL info on the Whelen than all of those combined.
Thanks for the great video really informative and great explanation about the useless 338win mag from what you said I understand that for Africa is better to stick with the 8x68s ,375 h&h and I'm thinking to get the 458 loot Best regards Romeo
I have been hunting with that cartridge for thirty years all over Europe and it is completely superior, easy to charge and handle, shoots flat and hits hard.
It is a hard caliber to come by in my area gun shops; I was looking for one several years ago for a possible plains game riffle. Never could find one, but happened across a 325 WSM in an X-Bolt. It can't push the heavier bullets that a 338 can, but for a 200 gr bullet it will do everything "almost" as good as a 338 but in a more efficient cartridge. I did find a used Model 70 Classic Safari Express in a 375 and it absolutely loves Barnes TSX. I wouldn't hesitate to use the 375 as a single gun for both plains game and Cape Buffalo as a single gun battery. I still check out the local shops for new/used 338 WM, but they just haven't cropped up when I'm looking and I don't want one bad enough to special order one. Recoil wise I think the 375 HH is pretty much the same as a 12 gauge shotgun, something no one should be particularly concerned about. But I'm not very recoil sensitive, so take that with a grain of salt. For example there is no comparison in ballistic performance between a 270 Winchester and hte 325 WSM, yet I really didn't seen anything noticeable in recoil on the 325 WSM unless I concentrated on 'feeling' the recoil. I've not had a 338 so can't say specifically on it, but when I was much younger I shot a 264 WM and found that it's recoil was a sharp jab/punch but have to consider that the it didn't fit me well. If you're not setup for it/prepared it could become unpleasant over an extended load development shooting session. I would assume the 338 would be similar but more so. On the issue of stock design/rifle fit, most people can get away with with poor fit in 270/30-06 class cartridges. However, as the cartridge intensity increases, good fit as was as proper setup/rifle weight become much more critical. Length of Pull, offset/drop, head/eye alignment and check weld can affect perceived recoil. IMO - YMMV.
Just curious, what do yall use on water buff? Thats a dream hunt I'd love to go on. Water buff, Feral bull, Banteng, Three great trophies and beef sausage and steaks for years!
I can't explain why, I've never been a fan of the .30 calibers. I really like the 7mm and .338 diameters. Although the only centerfire I currently have is a .375 Ruger, ironically it was purchased to take to Alaska for a moose and bear.
I love the medium bore rifles. I own both the .338 and a 300 Win Mag, and I use 180-200 grain in my .300 and I love the 225-250 grain in my .338. I have a friend who lives in Alaska, and he hunts big brown bear with a .300 Win Mag with a 212 grain bullet, and he’s been dropping them, as he puts it, “like lightning hit’em. Although I am completely confident in my .300 Win Mag, for any large game like Elk, Moose, and caribou, and even certain dangerous game like black, and any brown bear, with the right bullet, and proper shot placement, I still love those heavier .338 bullets and the work they do. Great video brother, one of the best I’ve seen on the .338. God bless. 🙏🏽
BC and SD's mean nothing for this cartridge at ethical distances with a premium hunting bullet. But the 225's will shoot flatter and recoil less. Advantage lighter bullets. shooting 300s out of a 338WM makes no sense when the 375 exists.
Hey DD I was under the impression that Alaska hunters were using the .375 H&H or .458 Win Mag on the big bears. I didn't know they were using the .338 for the big guys too. Thanks DD.
Most guides recommend the 375, most clients bring a 338, lol. Most Alaskan residents tend to own the 338 because they do way more moose hunting than bear hunting.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Yeah DD that TV show was actually 46 years ago it would come on early Sat mornings and I'd always catch it all the old great hunters. Thanks DD.
Really wish you had a chance to give my old hunting ground a chance...Black Bear Paradise found this and thought you might be interested...Craven County grows , much bigger than the in Canada. The state AND world is an 880 pound taken in 1998 with a shotgun, also on a hound hunt, in Craven .
My favorite load for my .338 is Sierra 250 gr SBT, with 72 gr IMR-4831 and CCI 250 primers. It's a slightly compressed load, chronographed at 2750 ft/sec, and 36 ft-lbs free recoil energy from my Winchester Model 70 XTR. My only concern is that my QuickLoad internal ballistics computer program predicts a maximum 73,000 psi peak pressure, which is uncomfortably high, but the Model 70 action is really strong and I've never seen any signs of excessive pressure. Plus, the cold temperatures you would expect in Alaska would reduce the peak pressure (and muzzle velocity) a little bit. My dream hunt is Alaska-Yukon moose - my last item on my bucket list.
Consider this dog of the desert, the 7mm rem mag and 30-06 have nearly the same velocity but with a slight advantage to the 7mm. But the 7 mag needs to burn more powder to achieve them velocities. It’s a reasonable comparison but I think it will come down to personal preference I really like the 338
It has a bit of a flowing even in fl. Loaded with 180gr bt it makes a very good long range round for hunting over the big farm fields. And still has a good bit of punch on the biger hogs way out there.
Thanks for the interesting video! Have you considered using cutting edge bullets instead of the Barnes, so that you don’t have to punish yourself to get proper expansion?
I have played with the CE bullets, and found the performance envelope similar to the LRX; but the CE bullets are much harder to load for and less accurate. I'm currently testing Hammer Bullets in 35 Whelen (220gr hunters), and am liking what I'm seeing from the load development side. I need to shoot into some gel and put some elk down with them before I make up my mind. The consistency of the Hammers is better than Barnes or CE with what I have seen so far.
I can agree the 300 mags does the same thing with less recoil but I find my 338 to be an okay shooter I personally don’t own or can’t find a 35 Whelen but I would see why it would be a better option. All in all I like my 270 paired with my 338. Thanks for the input desert dog
@@thorseim7177 those are nice choices for a 2 rifle battery. If I were to ever go to Africa I too would want a 416 for the big stuff but for my style of hunting and where I hunt a 270 gives me 75% of all I need the 338 gives me the rest. Honestly I only feel the need for a 338 due to where I live (Alaska) and bears are always a worry. Had I lived downstates I’d be completely happy with a 30-06 alone
@@desertdogoutdoors1113sorry i missed your reply 2years later ☺.yes i prefer 8,5x55 over 9,3x62 ,the selection of good bullets are 100% bigger and 9,3 kicks more than it delivers in the front ,to much noise for the bang
Imr4350 with 250gr sbt gets me 2760fps and 6.9sd over 10 rounds. My crippled shoulders cant handle more than 10 rounds prone a day, but i did a .875 group when i rezeroed after replacing broken one piece leupold base😅
My favorite round of them all im getting 5000 foot pounds of energy out of my handloads and it drops elk deer and bear right in their tracks and its also my favorite long range target practice round
Well I wouldn’t trade my 9.3x62 for anything else for where I live(Yukon), low recoil, low meat waste and simple reloading! I keep my shooting under 200m it works for caribou up too huge wood bisons we have up here!
Stick a 300 grain soft or solid in there,and you have a favorite for many a Shikarii on the Indian sub continent ,including Nepal,and so to this day also.
There's another cartridge based on the same case, but not developed by Winchester, the .308 Norma Magnum. .308 NM brass is stupid money so I just necked down some of my .338WM cases and fire formed them.
For Pinocchio’s for you. The factory loaded .338 carries 150/200 ft./s more for a given bullet weight than the 35 Weiland. Recoils more, because it hits harder. Elmer Keith’s .334 OK H was a mess down 375 H&H cartridge. Winchester shortened it for standard length receivers and gave it to the masses.
huge face palm. I'm not discussing your hand picked factory loads...these are all top-tier reloads operating at safe pressures (as mentioned in the vid). The 338 will give about 100fps advantage over the Whelen for any given bullet weight if you reload; fact, not assumption. Also, as pointed out in the vid and ignored by you, the 338WM was made directly from the 458WM case, as was the 264WM - and Winchester wanted a family of magnums based on the same case. There is documented evidence of this; but there is ZERO evidence of Keith having anything to do with the 338WM. (BTW, the 334OKH used a 300H&H case not the 375 case). The 338WM recoils more because it uses a full 15 grains more powder than the Whelen. It isn't a very efficient cartridge.
I did not handpick anything. I simply went by the highest performance with the same bullet weight. Also, since the 375 was introduced in 1912 and the 300 H&H was introduced in 1925, the 375 is the basis for all of those cartridges including the three from Winchester. Elmer Keith in his writing stated he made his 3340KH from 375 brass.
Looking at your chart, my 12 gauge kicks way harder with slugs up into the mid fifties. So a 338 wouldn’t be bad like some day it is. My 12 gauge weighs 6.5 pounds empty.
A good friend and I shot for YEARS, hunted together for years! Both U.S. Veterans, both familiar with firing ALL SORTS of weapons, from 100-meters to 1000-meters, and beyond. My favorite caliber of all time was (and is) the .300-WM. Before the Lapuas and other medium 'new calibers', he set his sights on the .338-WM. We both hand-loaded, had chronographs, spent WAY TOO MUCH 'retirement time' at the range...and we both learned VOLUMES about each caliber. Many claim 'the .338-WM is the best Elk Caliber', and to this I can confidently say, 'absolutely no way!'. The .338-WM just does not have the flat trajectory of the .300-WM, nor the range to 'reach out 900-meters' for a 'peak-to-peak' shot that you far-too-frequently find yourself facing for trophy elk. The best way to describe the .300-WM to someone is to envision the 'absolute flat-shooting' of a 7-mm Mag, partnered up with the knock-down power of a .30-06, when it gets there...regardless of how far away 'there' is. The .338-WM fills a different place...and Winchester itself explained it well in the very early 1960's...it was designed to be the 'one-stop, one-caliber solution' to Alaskan game at ranges below 400-meters, including Category 3 & 4 'Dangerous' game. It has a more-rounded trajectory, more-mass means more-knock-down when it gets there, more ballistic shock...but a higher drag coefficient and 'slower' velocities (250-grains vs the nominal 165, 168 and 180-grains of the .300-WM) means that your .338's precision starts coming apart in cross-wind when distances are added. In the end, it's a big, heavy brush gun that as a rimless, belted-magnum, can chamber in semi-auto actions (like the Browning BAR), is EXCELLENT as a guide-gun in 'dangerous game' regions...and has a wide-range of larger-body hunting available to it (from 250-lb standing weight up to 1,000-lbs). Great for wild boar, close-up elk, moose, bear...but never forget that 400-meter 'max range'...and the ever-opening 'cone of impact' as it approaches that point. As I always told him...the .338-WM suffers many of the same issue that the .375's and the .416 did...lot of muscle, if they aren't paying attention to let you get that close. To this point, the .458-Win could have done the same job...if they'd just looked more into the .420-.440 caliber ranges and focused more on aerodynamics, drag and cross-sectional density. (To which, I've always LOVED the .450-Rigby for what it did RIGHT, that no one else did...even designed rimless to function in a semi-auto action...the Browning BAR would have been STELLAR if chambered for it...but that is another conversation, entirely).
Elmer Keith came up with the 338 while drinking in a bar in Prescott. He drank 33 beers threw up 8 times... an then the greatest elk cartridge was born
Thanks for the reloading info. I am in the process of setting up to reload, specifically 300 win mag. Was thinking the Hodgdon H4350 or H4831SC would be optimal. The H4350 produces lower pressures while still pushing a 180gr or 190gr bullet. Thoughts?
@Jess Hadlock Thank you. The tip is much appreciated. I'm leaning toward 180gr Berger Elite Hunter because it is not as sensitive to seating depth. The 4831 takes a few more grains but actually produces less max pressure so I'll start there. This is a new rifle and it was expensive. I'm still buying the equipment needed to reload. Thinking about the future, want to preserve barrel life while keeping ammo cost as low as practical. BTW Peterson has some new 300wm brass out called "long" that only stretches the case about 0.002". Seems like this would give many more reloads.
@@cacinaz8802 if you neck up brand new belted brass to the next larger caliber (sometimes it takes the second largest caliber, depending on chamber neck size) and then size back down until the bolt closes with some resistance, you will eliminate that initial case stretch and brass life will be excellent. I've got some belted cases that are on their 17th firing.
@@cacinaz8802 I had a 4831 that was working perfect in my 300 wyb, then all I could get was the 4831 sc which they claimed was the same, but the same amount was way over pressure blew primers etc. when I backed it off to safe pressure, the fps was over a hundred less .
@@robertboyd3863 Interesting. The SC or short cut, describes a different grain structure that supposedly makes it easier to use in the measurement container. And Hodgdon does state that the two are ballistic twins. So I'll keep this in mind. I will start with the minimum load anyway but perhaps not attempt max loads. I'm going to pursue the 180 Elite Hunters (Berger) - they claim to be less sensitive to seating depth. I'm fine with lower pressure rounds. I'm a fan of DD's hunting philosophy to stay well within ethical distances and I'm pretty sure a 300 wm with a 180gr Berger Elite Hunter at less than 400 yards with a less than max load will perform just fine - over 2000 ft. lbs. at 450 yards.
@@cacinaz8802 All my 300 win mag are with the regular 4831, so haven't tried them with the sc, yet to see how bad it screws them up , I also remember when the first IMR 4831 came out , they claimed that was the same, same deal could not figure out all my pressure problems, till finally they admitted it was differant , and brought out data for it , anyway good luck
What ever happened to the 358 Norma Mag. Seems a great medium bore and looks more impressive than 35 Whellen. Like to here your thoughts on that cartridge. Great review as always spot on.
The 358 Norma and 358 STA are both victims of the "Law of Diminishing Returns". Most people using medium bores still want a light/manageable carry rifle, and the 358 Norma has too much recoil for a medium bore (imagine using it prone off your pack to shoot an elk - Ouch!). The 35 Whelen and the 358 Norma both easily shoot 225gr bullets at 2800fps; but the Whelen does it with 10 grains less powder. The beauty of the Whelen is that you get the same recoil with a 225gr bullet as a 300 mag gets with a 180gr bullet. Quite honestly, any game appropriate for the 338-358 calibers, can also be killed with a 300 magnum. Law of Diminishing Returns.
Always had an interest in 338 Win mag since I was a child but never tripped a 5rigger on one because recoil is not fun and I only hunt deer and small at short and medium range. 300yds is a long shot to me. Truth be know if I weren't a gun and reloading nut , the 30-30 would have supplied my center-fire needs for deer hunting,
The 450-400 3” NE and 450 3 1/4” NE have been chambered in Ruger # 1s, though the 450 NE was a special very limited edition. Fortunately, I have both. I like the Ruger # 1s. Love the 450-400 version, but the 450 NE in the Ruger # 1 is very light at about 7.5 lbs. So, that one gets your attention when you squeeze one off. BTW, nice take on the 338 Win Mag. It’s always been one of my favorites. Continuing off topic, but since some of the Nitros were mentioned, earlier, my largest big bore is a 500 A-Square in an A-Square Hannibal model. A very well made and tough rifle firing a brute of a cartridge! 600gr. bullet at over 2,400 FPS MV and around 8,000 Ft, Lbs. ME. Basically, it’s a 460 Weatherby necked up to 50 cal., improved and blown out, a bit. Roughly 2/3 the power of a 50 BMG in a rifle 1/3 the weight. Really enjoy your vids!
When I was young and impressionable, I read the gun rags and decided I needed a 338 Win Mag for elk. Hunting coastal timber for Roosevelt elk, the 250gr Partition gave me enough penetration to reach vitals at any angle. Then I was introduced to the 200gr Partition in a 30-06. Far less recoil, all the penetration, at least 1 more in the box, and lighter rifles.
It’s always a hell of a lot better. A good 35 Whelen is almost unubtanium, in the best of times. Ammo is not common either. I looked into it, and my personal thoughts was go for a 9.3 x 62 if I wanted that kind of performance. But since you can get a .338 Win Mag in a Model 70, and ammo is more common (even though I reload), I went in that direction.
Winchester Brother I have a question. I am going to Africa 🌍 in August this year hunting plains game. I want to take my Sako 338 Win Mag, but there is no ammo to be found anywhere. I have some Hornady Interlock 225gr. bullet's. Do you think this bullet would work well on Kudu, Black and Blue Wildebeest. Thanks
The interlock will be fine. Even if it breaks apart, 225gr is a lot of mass for simple plains game. I use 168gr or 180gr bullets from my 30-06 for plains game. The animals you listed are easy to kill, especially if they are in a fenced South African game farm. My best advise for a plains game only hunt - is to use your favorite 7mm or 30-cal deer rifle.
At 300 yards and in with these bullets (TTSX, Partition Accubond), SD doesn't matter. They will all get great penetration. With an excellent hunting bullet that delivers enough energy on target, I completely ignore SDs.
As an old guy who use to be a hunting guide in Wyoming, I cringed every time someone pulled out a 338 WM. Only one hunter who showed up with a 338, could handle the recoil and shoot it accurately. My personal favourite was the 35 Whelen with 225 Nosler Partitions. I hunted and hand loaded everything from 25-06 to 416 RM. I really appreciated the 300 Wthby and the 7mm RM. But the 35 Whelen ended up being my favourite, and the most requested by people needing to borrow a rifle.
I notice people buy their whatever then brag ( ok in hunt camp) how much they can pump it up before it tinkles on their roof.i load my 338 200 g way down lots safer. Do this bc really like this one.
Soooooo,,,, Sir dessert dog.... I have a 338 win mag And I have a 35 whelen,,, No scope for ether yet,,, Would it work to buy one good long range scope becoming of the 338 distances,,, And then when needed quick release change that same scope to the 35 whelen,,,,?????
I personally do not like switching scopes between rifles. Getting a scope dialed in perfect and properly is a process that takes time (trip to the range/mounting/leveling/torque), and money (Ammo it takes to re-zero scope). I consider my scopes to be an integral part of the rifle; like the bolt or trigger.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I thought the same, But I keep hearing that the 35 whalen and 338 win are so close up to 300 yards,, I thought that mabe a quick detach mount setup would not hurt ,,, Since they are both rugar m77 mark 2 zytel stock... I am going to have the 338 fitted with guide gun sights of some kind,,, Like from new England custom gun at the extreme rear, Or mid barrel V, The 35 Whalen already has the guide gun sights, Just no barrel band sling attachment .. Thanx 4 the videos..
@@danielravenstar4442 Even though the ballistics are close, they are not the same. Also, every barrel shoots different and you will have different POA/POI between any two rifles.
Ive always heard that .358 calibers hit noticably harder, kill noticably faster, and produce noticably better blood trails than their .338 countrrparts. Have you witnessed this to be true?
Not really. What I have seen is the cartridges with more kinetic energy on target kill faster (with similar bullet designs). For instance, the 338 win mag kills a little better than the 35 Whelen, But the 358 Norma crushes the 338 Win Mag. Good blood trails require complete pass-throughs, and that has more to do with bullet design than the cartridge (a TSX in 25-06 will out-penetrate a VLD in 30-06).
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I ask because i am thinking about reboring a 3006 to either 338-06 or 35 Whelen. I've read that the 338 will give a little bit flatter trajectory, carry energy a little better, and have greater bullet selection....but then I read a lot of the 338 cal bullets are designed to work on game at higher velocity.. ..then that makes me think...If I go 338-06, let's say the max range for desired energy is 525 yards....but the bullet only performs out to 400 yards, then i have a 400 yard rifle. Then I think of I go 35 whelen, and let's say the max range for desired energy and trajectory happens at 450 yards, but the bullet only performs put to 400 yards also...then that is also a 400 yard rifle. I know there are tons of bullets for both, but I am sure there is probably more of a short list that will perform optimally when plugging in specific criteria. I also wonder if the bore to volume ratio will give me a little bit more in velocity with the whelen. I like performance, but I really like versatility.
My 338 now 44 years old . Never let me down . Love the thunder and lightning . First 30 years used 250gr Partitions .
Tudor Howard Davies used a pre 64 with 300gr Colorado Arms fmj for ages as a back up in his ph days . Never let him down either .
“ I almost never shoot over 300 yards cause I’m a good hunter.” Haha love it. Your totally right the bullet won’t open up slower than 1800-2000 fps. One shot one kill.
Always liked .338 Win Mag, it's bigger than I would ever need but I really like it. As a Gun Salesman for many years, I always told people it was a standard caliber, not a flash in the pan like many others. Thanks, Mike.
Ah, finally some solid info on .338 Win Mag on UA-cam. Kudos on the logo and intro. Might I add that .338 WM has a small but faithful following here in Russia. It’s perfect for a red stag brown bear moose and is pretty much a guaranteed drop for a hog. I prefer it to the 9,3 because of the flatter trajectory and I don’t mind the recoil. I find it fun to be honest.
Great info. Thank You. Hopefully in the near future, I'll be hunting bear in Russia.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113Cannot wait for that!
I enjoy shooting the .338 Win Mag as well. It feels like controllable power.
@ching chong Depending on the region. If it's a remote place there's a very limited selection of ammo so naturally, there are only .22LR, 5.45x39, 7.62x39, and 7.62x54R. The .308 is becoming very strong even in remote locations due to its versatility and adoption by Russian manufacturers. If you think of a mountainous region, then .300 Win Mag is the most popular choice. Close to me (Moscow) people adore the 9.3x62 and .300 WM. .223 is also very prominent.
@@darvinclement3250”controllable power”. Very well put. I really like 338 Win Mag. Along with pretty much all the medium bores. I remember firing my brother’s 338 WM. I want to say it’s just a small step above my hottest 325 WSM loads. Idk why it’s not but 8mm should be lumped in with medium bores. It fits right in imo. I mean who would like to mess around with an 8mm-06? But I digress. It’s hard to pick the top medium bore. But 338 WM has got to be close
I just bought a Montana rifle CO ALR in 338 win mag for my 26th birthday. I was fortunate to draw a tag for the inaugural bear season in Missouri this year hopefully get to put it to use in October and Elk in Colorado in Nov.
Finally someone who realizes that the heavier bullets per caliber perform better on big game in hunting situations. Good job reviewing the rifles from a hunters point of view.
You right,what's not to like.i love the 338win.mag
I really like 338 calibers, my two favorite rifles in my collection one is 338 win mag and the other is 338 Lapua. I’ve never hunted with the Lapua it’s just too big and heavy for most hunting trips but the win mag is a beauty.
@David Wood The Lapua is really for shooting very long distances (1500+ yards) at non animal targets wearing body armor. It was developed as a sniper round and could certainly be used for hunting but the rifles that shoot it are typically heavy 26+ inch barrels, so unless you’re in a deer stand it would suck to lug it around. Plus there is really nothing to be gained from using a Lapua within 500 yards, it shines in the 1000+ yard shots and non survival hunting at those ranges is not ethical in my opinion. I just use it for distances target shooting which is a blast.
I made multiple trips to South Africa for plains game, and took 35 animals with 36 shots with the 338 Win Mg. Only had to shoot a Black Wildebeest twice because I shot too low across the brisket on the first shot. Second shot high shoulder put him down in tracks. Turned a 200 pound spring black bear upside down with all 4 feet in the air in Canada, and made a Texas heart shot from back to front on a West Texas Mule deer. Took them all down like a lightning bolt.
Love my .338 Win mag! I've found the 210gr Nosler Partition a great bullet.
More straight shooting from Desert Dog. Keep producing these great videos. I learned something interesting again today.
I appreciate your channel and content ...you give a good overview without getting lost in the details
Excellent presentation as always. The .338 Win Mag is an oversized 7 x 57 regarding powder to bullet ratio and as such it is well balanced. Good shot placement with tough hunting bullets at reasonable distances is always essential for ethical harvesting of game! Stay within the limits of the cartridge that you can handle adequately regarding recoil and accuracy. Shoots at big game with cheap cup and core bullets in small calibers at unreasonable distances is definitely not ethical hunting.
I find that us gun nuts confuse the terms "want and need". My personal opinion is that a 30-06 can cover most of my needs. (I live in Africa). But who wants just one rifle?
The need is what you want, or what you want is what you need! 😂 me2!
An old riddle -- "The more you want it, the harder you try. The harder you try, the less you get it. The less you get it, the more you want it." Repeat....
I always learn so much from these awesome videos.
I live in Alaska and I love my 338 win mag! One interesting round quickly becoming popular here for coastal brown bears is the 325 ism
325 WSM is an excellent round
Oh, I forgot about the .416. I remember watching a hunting film some 30 years ago about hunting on Alaska. They were showing how effective the .44 magnum could take the big bears at close range but they also showed the .416 Rigby as the rifle some hunters used. They had good TV back then.
Top notch!! Straight and to the point. Thank u for this outstanding review on the 338 win mag
As usual I'm late to the dinner table as Im just now seeing this video three months after it was first posted. It's another great one. It's amazing how flat a 35 Whelen can shoot. A couple of commenters have already mentioned it, but I think it's worth mentioning again that another cartridge to consider is the 338-06. Same bullets as the 338 Win Mag and out to 300 yards or maybe a little farther just as good with less recoil and muzzle blast. It's amazing what can be accomplished with that lowly old fashioned '06 case. Keep up the good work DD.
Great video. I have a 338 win mag. But honestly if I am going hunting anywhere in the lower 48 US for any game animal I’m gonna grab my 270 and be happy. If I’m going to Alaska and am going to run into bears I’ll take the 338 WM. PS my 338 likes 4350 and 225gr partitions. It shoots very accurately. Like 3 shots in a clover leaf at 100 off bench. I trust it. You always do good solid data driven videos man. Thanks.
+1 270 fan👍
Eye opening video. I prefer the 9.3x62, in this range. Some of it has to do with the fact it is pretty available in Canada. Up here barrels now all cost about the same as a new rifle, so that was just one more reason to go light on the powder burners.
I agree on the 300 yards, and I would rather see shooters who want to stretch use a laser, you can throw as much powder as you want into a 338, it is still going to need a lot of hold over for those longer distances. So why not start there?
Two other advantages to the 9.3, or 35. According to your experience you need to crimp your 338 ammo, in a meat hunt that means a minor opportunity to get better accuracy if you are shooting the guns that do not need a crimp. Not maybe major, but it is something.
And the other thing is barrel length. For the same loss of hearing, you can shoot a handier 9.3.
Very good vid! I like how you have great respect for this great cartridge! Your input inspired me to further my choice in a great Magnum cartridge!
2022, 25 years of successful Moose hunts using my Rem700 30'06. I finally decided on a Belted Magnum. I got a modern ironsighted Winchester M70 set up with Leupold Quick Release mounts and VX2 3-9X40. I developed Nosler Partition 250gr accuracy loads. I've witnessed what this cartridge can do with a good set up.
I know a headshot on Big Monster Yukon Moose with my rifle will get the job done! No crazy 500 plus yard unethical attempts here! As close as I can darn get for a clean headshot, always. The Moose Ribs are too valuable!
Interesting content as always. Thanks for the cartridge history.
Thanks for this video. It has solidified our family's rifle set for Africa and Alaska. We will go with a .375 H&H and a 9.3x62. I really enjoy the details and history for your topics. Keep up the good work.
Those two are pretty similar, might want to expand your options a bit for a little more versatility
Jeeper is 💯 % correct. I would suggest keeping the 9.3x62 and moving up to the 416 Remington.
The .375 is a useful and romantic cartridge, but it's redundant if you have the 9.3x62.
*** If you're interested, there is a book out there (3 printings already) on the 9.3x62.
Another great informative video from someone who knows what they are talking about . model 70 458 video please, just bought one! Keep those videos them coming
I have a 1993 Weatherby mark v 338 win mag and it's amazing
Thank you for a very informative and practical video!
I bench rest shot a bunch of .338 win mag rounds through a FN rifle.
Sweetest shooting medium calibre I ever fired, lack of recoil surprised me.
BUT: minimum calibre for dangerous game in South Africa is .375 H&H...
This does not apply eg in Zimbabwe and other countries.
I have a Sako full stock carbine in .375 H&H, but still dream of owning that .338 win mag.
Too little practical difference between the calibres to buy a .338 win mag.
It's a wife thing, I'll get to test the stopping power 1st hand.....
SA girls can be very dangerous game, indeed!
My favorite hunting rifle!!!!!! The Winchester m70 Alaskan 338 win mag
Thanks for this, as the .338 Winny has always been a favorite of mine. About 30 years ago I had a 700 BDL that I had rebarreled in stainless and restocked by Brown Precision in Kalifornia. I was once of the mindset that no boolit under 250 gr would ever pollute its bore. I have changed my thinking. The lighter faster mono boolits perform better. Same penetration, flatter trajectory over responsible hunting distances and less recoil. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go get Winny and take her outside and make a large rock into several smaller rocks. Thanks, DD!
Awesome! I had Brown Precision build me a Kevlar stock many years ago for a mountain rifle project, and had them make a couple stocks after that over the years. Their facility burned down about 3-4 years ago, and the Brown family moved to Texas and restarted the business there. They are great people.
I think the only people with channels who have your kind of knowledge are Forgotten Weapons and Mischa. I think your bullet knowledge is much greater too. You should be well over 100K by now. Best of luck as I continue to learn.Thank you
Good job! Regards from Sweden
Hi mate. I’ve watched a few of your videos now and enjoy your pragmatic approach to everything firearms and hunting related.
I am a 338WM owner and it’s my go to for most of my hunting here in Australia.
Currently I’m using 225gn Hornady Interbonds and with a R19 load got them going at 2860fps. In time I will need to consider an alternative and although Nosler has a 225gn offering, I’m staying open minded.
I’m interested in your use of Barnes TTSX in the 338WM. I’ve seen the 180gn TTSX fail to expand past 250 meters out of my 300WM. I have a UA-cam video up of a mature Sambar stag I took with the TTSX. Took 3 shots at 260 meters, all on the money. To add I witnessed similar outcomes in other 300 caliber rifles also using the 180 TTSX.
As a benchmark you could liken a Sambar to an Elk. Sambar are smaller but tough AF.
I’ve concluded that I should have used a lighter TTSX in that rifle to get expansion at longer ranges.
So back to the 338WM where I’ve shot 225 and 250gn projectiles I’m thinking a 210gn TTSX or lighter may be an option.
Generally bush stalking would see me shoot Sambar under 100 meters however I’m the type of guy that develops one load and sticks to it. Unless it fails or is no longer available.
So I’m interested in your experience in using Barnes projectiles specifically in your 338WM at longer ranges. Up close I’m happy with using them but cautious about using them past 250 meters based purely on past experience.
Thanks in advance.
Link to video I mentioned.
ua-cam.com/video/63oF6eVTA8w/v-deo.html
I love my .338 win mag for elk and your video really educated me. I have never shot at any game over 300 yards with it either. If I did not already own two, then I would probably get a 300 win mag, but thanks for an very educational video.
I have owned at least one rifle in each of the Winchester belted magnums. All of them delivered velocity within 100 fps of the original advertised velocity. Finn Aagaard held the .458 in good regard. I have used the other three on game and have been satisfied. My least favorite was the .300; I rebarreled it to .30-338 but I could have lived with it. I like the 225 grain and 250 grain best for the .338. Nice presentation as always.
Yep, the 300WM is my least favorite of the practical magnums. Mainly due to lack of efficiency and SAAMI magazine specs that make it hard to load longer monos near the lands.
Awesome video on the 338 win mag, I'm getting me a 35 Whelen
Great show.
Really good info.Thanks DD
i will always rep for my beloved 338 win mag.
Great video. Alot of good info
Good vid like to see more on the 35 whelen
I'll do a video at some point. I started working on one after a few requests on a couple hunt camp mails earlier this year, but other channels started flooding youtube with Whelen videos (they use my HCM videos to mine content) and it killed my interest in doing the video. Maybe later if I feel up to it.
But honestly, this 338 Win Mag video probably provides more REAL info on the Whelen than all of those combined.
No doubt!
Thanks for the great video really informative and great explanation about the useless 338win mag from what you said I understand that for Africa is better to stick with the 8x68s ,375 h&h and I'm thinking to get the 458 loot
Best regards Romeo
Would definitely like to hear you discuss 35 Whelen. I'm building a 35 whelen on an old commercial Mauser action as we speak
Great new logo and intro
Thank you. Decided to change things a little.
You convinced me to just stick with my 8x57js
Thank you for all the great videos! If possible would you mind making a video on the 35 Whalen?
Lets go, .338 win mag!
This is a great video
Thanks much have had good success with 210 gr. Barnes and IMR 7828 on moose and elk.
That is a great bullet.
Saturday night dawg oh yeah 😎🤘
I have been hunting with that cartridge for thirty years all over Europe and it is completely superior, easy to charge and handle, shoots flat and hits hard.
It is a hard caliber to come by in my area gun shops; I was looking for one several years ago for a possible plains game riffle. Never could find one, but happened across a 325 WSM in an X-Bolt. It can't push the heavier bullets that a 338 can, but for a 200 gr bullet it will do everything "almost" as good as a 338 but in a more efficient cartridge. I did find a used Model 70 Classic Safari Express in a 375 and it absolutely loves Barnes TSX. I wouldn't hesitate to use the 375 as a single gun for both plains game and Cape Buffalo as a single gun battery. I still check out the local shops for new/used 338 WM, but they just haven't cropped up when I'm looking and I don't want one bad enough to special order one.
Recoil wise I think the 375 HH is pretty much the same as a 12 gauge shotgun, something no one should be particularly concerned about. But I'm not very recoil sensitive, so take that with a grain of salt. For example there is no comparison in ballistic performance between a 270 Winchester and hte 325 WSM, yet I really didn't seen anything noticeable in recoil on the 325 WSM unless I concentrated on 'feeling' the recoil.
I've not had a 338 so can't say specifically on it, but when I was much younger I shot a 264 WM and found that it's recoil was a sharp jab/punch but have to consider that the it didn't fit me well. If you're not setup for it/prepared it could become unpleasant over an extended load development shooting session. I would assume the 338 would be similar but more so.
On the issue of stock design/rifle fit, most people can get away with with poor fit in 270/30-06 class cartridges. However, as the cartridge intensity increases, good fit as was as proper setup/rifle weight become much more critical. Length of Pull, offset/drop, head/eye alignment and check weld can affect perceived recoil. IMO - YMMV.
Very popular in south eastern Australia for Sambar Deer hunters.
Just curious, what do yall use on water buff?
Thats a dream hunt I'd love to go on.
Water buff,
Feral bull,
Banteng,
Three great trophies and beef sausage and steaks for years!
I can't explain why, I've never been a fan of the .30 calibers. I really like the 7mm and .338 diameters. Although the only centerfire I currently have is a .375 Ruger, ironically it was purchased to take to Alaska for a moose and bear.
A 375 ruger is a great caliber for AK.
I love the medium bore rifles. I own both the .338 and a 300 Win Mag, and I use 180-200 grain in my .300 and I love the 225-250 grain in my .338. I have a friend who lives in Alaska, and he hunts big brown bear with a .300 Win Mag with a 212 grain bullet, and he’s been dropping them, as he puts it, “like lightning hit’em. Although I am completely confident in my .300 Win Mag, for any large game like Elk, Moose, and caribou, and even certain dangerous game like black, and any brown bear, with the right bullet, and proper shot placement, I still love those heavier .338 bullets and the work they do. Great video brother, one of the best I’ve seen on the .338. God bless. 🙏🏽
I have a Ruger 338 win mag love the is shoots ,it's a little big for Georgia
I live in north Georgia. I shot a 338 too
I live in North Ga and shoot 375 H&H
The .338 300 grain round has one of the highest BC's and SD's of ANY commercial cartridge.
BC and SD's mean nothing for this cartridge at ethical distances with a premium hunting bullet. But the 225's will shoot flatter and recoil less. Advantage lighter bullets. shooting 300s out of a 338WM makes no sense when the 375 exists.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 A bit touchy today? Did I hit a nerve? I just made a comment that isolates the .338 caliber from any other.
@@kidsteach938 It has been my pleasure teaching you.
Hey DD I was under the impression that Alaska hunters were using the .375 H&H or .458 Win Mag on the big bears. I didn't know they were using the .338 for the big guys too. Thanks DD.
Most guides recommend the 375, most clients bring a 338, lol. Most Alaskan residents tend to own the 338 because they do way more moose hunting than bear hunting.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Yeah DD that TV show was actually 46 years ago it would come on early Sat mornings and I'd always catch it all the old great hunters. Thanks DD.
Really wish you had a chance to give my old hunting ground a chance...Black Bear Paradise found this and thought you might be interested...Craven County
grows , much bigger than the in Canada. The state AND world is an 880 pound taken in 1998 with a shotgun, also on a hound hunt, in Craven .
My favorite load for my .338 is Sierra 250 gr SBT, with 72 gr IMR-4831 and CCI 250 primers. It's a slightly compressed load, chronographed at 2750 ft/sec, and 36 ft-lbs free recoil energy from my Winchester Model 70 XTR. My only concern is that my QuickLoad internal ballistics computer program predicts a maximum 73,000 psi peak pressure, which is uncomfortably high, but the Model 70 action is really strong and I've never seen any signs of excessive pressure.
Plus, the cold temperatures you would expect in Alaska would reduce the peak pressure (and muzzle velocity) a little bit.
My dream hunt is Alaska-Yukon moose - my last item on my bucket list.
Love the 338 WM. Needed for tuff game like Widebeest
I've killed most of my wildebeest with my 30-06. The are noticeably smaller than elk, and go down pretty easy.
I’d love a video on the 338-06
Now!!! This is a BIG Bear rifle! It will stop it!!!
love my ruger m77 mk2 in 338 winny for elk.
Consider this dog of the desert, the 7mm rem mag and 30-06 have nearly the same velocity but with a slight advantage to the 7mm. But the 7 mag needs to burn more powder to achieve them velocities. It’s a reasonable comparison but I think it will come down to personal preference I really like the 338
It has a bit of a flowing even in fl.
Loaded with 180gr bt it makes a very good long range round for hunting over the big farm fields.
And still has a good bit of punch on the biger hogs way out there.
Reloaders possibilities. Loads down for deer 🦌/ all the way thru the big nastys] found pristine m70 closet 338 in a free state 😀 Happy ever after.
Thanks for the interesting video! Have you considered using cutting edge bullets instead of the Barnes, so that you don’t have to punish yourself to get proper expansion?
I have played with the CE bullets, and found the performance envelope similar to the LRX; but the CE bullets are much harder to load for and less accurate. I'm currently testing Hammer Bullets in 35 Whelen (220gr hunters), and am liking what I'm seeing from the load development side. I need to shoot into some gel and put some elk down with them before I make up my mind. The consistency of the Hammers is better than Barnes or CE with what I have seen so far.
I can agree the 300 mags does the same thing with less recoil but I find my 338 to be an okay shooter I personally don’t own or can’t find a 35 Whelen but I would see why it would be a better option. All in all I like my 270 paired with my 338. Thanks for the input desert dog
@@thorseim7177 those are nice choices for a 2 rifle battery. If I were to ever go to Africa I too would want a 416 for the big stuff but for my style of hunting and where I hunt a 270 gives me 75% of all I need the 338 gives me the rest. Honestly I only feel the need for a 338 due to where I live (Alaska) and bears are always a worry. Had I lived downstates I’d be completely happy with a 30-06 alone
I have the new 338 win mag ! 8,5x55blaser, win mag performance from a short barrel
Do you prefer it over the 9.3x62?
@@desertdogoutdoors1113sorry i missed your reply 2years later ☺.yes i prefer 8,5x55 over 9,3x62 ,the selection of good bullets are 100% bigger and 9,3 kicks more than it delivers in the front ,to much noise for the bang
Imr4350 with 250gr sbt gets me 2760fps and 6.9sd over 10 rounds. My crippled shoulders cant handle more than 10 rounds prone a day, but i did a .875 group when i rezeroed after replacing broken one piece leupold base😅
My favorite round of them all im getting 5000 foot pounds of energy out of my handloads and it drops elk deer and bear right in their tracks and its also my favorite long range target practice round
Well I wouldn’t trade my 9.3x62 for anything else for where I live(Yukon), low recoil, low meat waste and simple reloading! I keep my shooting under 200m it works for caribou up too huge wood bisons we have up here!
Really enjoy you individual cartridge vids. Can we get on on the .416 Rigby?
Watch my 416 Rem Mag Vid. Basically covered the 416s in that one.
Stick a 300 grain soft or solid in there,and you have a favorite for many a Shikarii on the Indian sub continent ,including Nepal,and so to this day also.
There's another cartridge based on the same case, but not developed by Winchester, the .308 Norma Magnum. .308 NM brass is stupid money so I just necked down some of my .338WM cases and fire formed them.
For Pinocchio’s for you. The factory loaded .338 carries 150/200 ft./s more for a given bullet weight than the 35 Weiland. Recoils more, because it hits harder. Elmer Keith’s .334 OK H was a mess down 375 H&H cartridge. Winchester shortened it for standard length receivers and gave it to the masses.
huge face palm. I'm not discussing your hand picked factory loads...these are all top-tier reloads operating at safe pressures (as mentioned in the vid). The 338 will give about 100fps advantage over the Whelen for any given bullet weight if you reload; fact, not assumption. Also, as pointed out in the vid and ignored by you, the 338WM was made directly from the 458WM case, as was the 264WM - and Winchester wanted a family of magnums based on the same case. There is documented evidence of this; but there is ZERO evidence of Keith having anything to do with the 338WM. (BTW, the 334OKH used a 300H&H case not the 375 case). The 338WM recoils more because it uses a full 15 grains more powder than the Whelen. It isn't a very efficient cartridge.
I did not handpick anything. I simply went by the highest performance with the same bullet weight. Also, since the 375 was introduced in 1912 and the 300 H&H was introduced in 1925, the 375 is the basis for all of those cartridges including the three from Winchester. Elmer Keith in his writing stated he made his 3340KH from 375 brass.
Looking at your chart, my 12 gauge kicks way harder with slugs up into the mid fifties. So a 338 wouldn’t be bad like some day it is. My 12 gauge weighs 6.5 pounds empty.
Pretty much the prefect elk, moose and grizzly cartridge.
A good friend and I shot for YEARS, hunted together for years! Both U.S. Veterans, both familiar with firing ALL SORTS of weapons, from 100-meters to 1000-meters, and beyond. My favorite caliber of all time was (and is) the .300-WM. Before the Lapuas and other medium 'new calibers', he set his sights on the .338-WM. We both hand-loaded, had chronographs, spent WAY TOO MUCH 'retirement time' at the range...and we both learned VOLUMES about each caliber. Many claim 'the .338-WM is the best Elk Caliber', and to this I can confidently say, 'absolutely no way!'. The .338-WM just does not have the flat trajectory of the .300-WM, nor the range to 'reach out 900-meters' for a 'peak-to-peak' shot that you far-too-frequently find yourself facing for trophy elk. The best way to describe the .300-WM to someone is to envision the 'absolute flat-shooting' of a 7-mm Mag, partnered up with the knock-down power of a .30-06, when it gets there...regardless of how far away 'there' is. The .338-WM fills a different place...and Winchester itself explained it well in the very early 1960's...it was designed to be the 'one-stop, one-caliber solution' to Alaskan game at ranges below 400-meters, including Category 3 & 4 'Dangerous' game. It has a more-rounded trajectory, more-mass means more-knock-down when it gets there, more ballistic shock...but a higher drag coefficient and 'slower' velocities (250-grains vs the nominal 165, 168 and 180-grains of the .300-WM) means that your .338's precision starts coming apart in cross-wind when distances are added. In the end, it's a big, heavy brush gun that as a rimless, belted-magnum, can chamber in semi-auto actions (like the Browning BAR), is EXCELLENT as a guide-gun in 'dangerous game' regions...and has a wide-range of larger-body hunting available to it (from 250-lb standing weight up to 1,000-lbs). Great for wild boar, close-up elk, moose, bear...but never forget that 400-meter 'max range'...and the ever-opening 'cone of impact' as it approaches that point.
As I always told him...the .338-WM suffers many of the same issue that the .375's and the .416 did...lot of muscle, if they aren't paying attention to let you get that close. To this point, the .458-Win could have done the same job...if they'd just looked more into the .420-.440 caliber ranges and focused more on aerodynamics, drag and cross-sectional density.
(To which, I've always LOVED the .450-Rigby for what it did RIGHT, that no one else did...even designed rimless to function in a semi-auto action...the Browning BAR would have been STELLAR if chambered for it...but that is another conversation, entirely).
Elmer Keith came up with the 338 while drinking in a bar in Prescott. He drank 33 beers threw up 8 times... an then the greatest elk cartridge was born
Thanks for the reloading info. I am in the process of setting up to reload, specifically 300 win mag. Was thinking the Hodgdon H4350 or H4831SC would be optimal. The H4350 produces lower pressures while still pushing a 180gr or 190gr bullet. Thoughts?
@Jess Hadlock Thank you. The tip is much appreciated. I'm leaning toward 180gr Berger Elite Hunter because it is not as sensitive to seating depth. The 4831 takes a few more grains but actually produces less max pressure so I'll start there. This is a new rifle and it was expensive. I'm still buying the equipment needed to reload. Thinking about the future, want to preserve barrel life while keeping ammo cost as low as practical. BTW Peterson has some new 300wm brass out called "long" that only stretches the case about 0.002". Seems like this would give many more reloads.
@@cacinaz8802 if you neck up brand new belted brass to the next larger caliber (sometimes it takes the second largest caliber, depending on chamber neck size) and then size back down until the bolt closes with some resistance, you will eliminate that initial case stretch and brass life will be excellent. I've got some belted cases that are on their 17th firing.
@@cacinaz8802 I had a 4831 that was working perfect in my 300 wyb, then all I could get was the 4831 sc which they claimed was the same, but the same amount was way over pressure blew primers etc. when I backed it off to safe pressure, the fps was over a hundred less .
@@robertboyd3863 Interesting. The SC or short cut, describes a different grain structure that supposedly makes it easier to use in the measurement container. And Hodgdon does state that the two are ballistic twins. So I'll keep this in mind. I will start with the minimum load anyway but perhaps not attempt max loads. I'm going to pursue the 180 Elite Hunters (Berger) - they claim to be less sensitive to seating depth. I'm fine with lower pressure rounds. I'm a fan of DD's hunting philosophy to stay well within ethical distances and I'm pretty sure a 300 wm with a 180gr Berger Elite Hunter at less than 400 yards with a less than max load will perform just fine - over 2000 ft. lbs. at 450 yards.
@@cacinaz8802 All my 300 win mag are with the regular 4831, so haven't tried them with the sc, yet to see how bad it screws them up , I also remember when the first IMR 4831 came out , they claimed that was the same, same deal could not figure out all my pressure problems, till finally they admitted it was differant , and brought out data for it , anyway good luck
What ever happened to the 358 Norma Mag. Seems a great medium bore and looks more impressive than 35 Whellen. Like to here your thoughts on that cartridge. Great review as always spot on.
The 358 Norma and 358 STA are both victims of the "Law of Diminishing Returns". Most people using medium bores still want a light/manageable carry rifle, and the 358 Norma has too much recoil for a medium bore (imagine using it prone off your pack to shoot an elk - Ouch!). The 35 Whelen and the 358 Norma both easily shoot 225gr bullets at 2800fps; but the Whelen does it with 10 grains less powder. The beauty of the Whelen is that you get the same recoil with a 225gr bullet as a 300 mag gets with a 180gr bullet. Quite honestly, any game appropriate for the 338-358 calibers, can also be killed with a 300 magnum. Law of Diminishing Returns.
There is no .35 Whelen and .338 wm debate...you NEED both!! Better chance of finding a good politician than H4350 these days...
The .35 Whelen is sadly overlooked...
Always had an interest in 338 Win mag since I was a child but never tripped a 5rigger on one because recoil is not fun and I only hunt deer and small at short and medium range. 300yds is a long shot to me. Truth be know if I weren't a gun and reloading nut , the 30-30 would have supplied my center-fire needs for deer hunting,
Every caliber on that case is absolutely great, 264,7mm, 338 win . 338 win mag with 210 gr ttsx at 3000+ fps is so versatile.
Maybe u can review the nitro Express guns from 470 to 700🤔
Probably not going to happen, as I have never fired any NE cartridge above the 470NE.
Kentucky ballistic shot a 500 nitro but the 470 can do if u could do a review on that
The 450-400 3” NE and 450 3 1/4” NE have been chambered in Ruger # 1s, though the 450 NE was a special very limited edition. Fortunately, I have both. I like the Ruger # 1s. Love the 450-400 version, but the 450 NE in the Ruger # 1 is very light at about 7.5 lbs. So, that one gets your attention when you squeeze one off. BTW, nice take on the 338 Win Mag. It’s always been one of my favorites.
Continuing off topic, but since some of the Nitros were mentioned, earlier, my largest big bore is a 500 A-Square in an A-Square Hannibal model. A very well made and tough rifle firing a brute of a cartridge! 600gr. bullet at over 2,400 FPS MV and around 8,000 Ft, Lbs. ME. Basically, it’s a 460 Weatherby necked up to 50 cal., improved and blown out, a bit. Roughly 2/3 the power of a 50 BMG in a rifle 1/3 the weight. Really enjoy your vids!
Can you do a 300 winmag video please
When I was young and impressionable, I read the gun rags and decided I needed a 338 Win Mag for elk. Hunting coastal timber for Roosevelt elk, the 250gr Partition gave me enough penetration to reach vitals at any angle. Then I was introduced to the 200gr Partition in a 30-06. Far less recoil, all the penetration, at least 1 more in the box, and lighter rifles.
I know It is hard to judge giving the atmosphere of the market right now but what is rifle and ammo availability of the 338 vs like the 35 whelen?
It’s always a hell of a lot better. A good 35 Whelen is almost unubtanium, in the best of times. Ammo is not common either. I looked into it, and my personal thoughts was go for a 9.3 x 62 if I wanted that kind of performance. But since you can get a .338 Win Mag in a Model 70, and ammo is more common (even though I reload), I went in that direction.
Winchester Brother I have a question. I am going to Africa 🌍 in August this year hunting plains game. I want to take my Sako 338 Win Mag, but there is no ammo to be found anywhere. I have some Hornady Interlock 225gr. bullet's. Do you think this bullet would work well on Kudu, Black and Blue Wildebeest. Thanks
The interlock will be fine. Even if it breaks apart, 225gr is a lot of mass for simple plains game. I use 168gr or 180gr bullets from my 30-06 for plains game. The animals you listed are easy to kill, especially if they are in a fenced South African game farm. My best advise for a plains game only hunt - is to use your favorite 7mm or 30-cal deer rifle.
338 is a super cartrige simaler to the Mauser 8 x 60S. for hunting african game, even Buffalo
I think a bit small for buffalo
A better comparison between different cartridges may be to keep the same SD rather than the same bullet weight. Than compare the ballistics.
At 300 yards and in with these bullets (TTSX, Partition Accubond), SD doesn't matter. They will all get great penetration. With an excellent hunting bullet that delivers enough energy on target, I completely ignore SDs.
As an old guy who use to be a hunting guide in Wyoming, I cringed every time someone pulled out a 338 WM. Only one hunter who showed up with a 338, could handle the recoil and shoot it accurately. My personal favourite was the 35 Whelen with 225 Nosler Partitions. I hunted and hand loaded everything from 25-06 to 416 RM. I really appreciated the 300 Wthby and the 7mm RM. But the 35 Whelen ended up being my favourite, and the most requested by people needing to borrow a rifle.
Yep, the Whelen with those 225's is just perfection.
I notice people buy their whatever then brag ( ok in hunt camp) how much they can pump it up before it tinkles on their roof.i load my 338 200 g way down lots safer. Do this bc really like this one.
What do you mean "hitting big game with 2000 ft# of energy"?! I can't do that with my 65 creedmoor at 1000 yards!
I'm being sarcastic FYI.
Yep, I'm waiting for the 6.5CM Griz hunters to chime in.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 🤣 65 creedmoor will knock a moose on it's ass at 1,000 do it all the time! Just hold on the top of the back!
Someone needs to make a face palm meem that says,
"When your PH asks what your plains game Rifle is and you tell him its a 6.5 Creedmoor."
@@jackbuendgen389 Bullshiiiiit. Haha!😄
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I heard the Griz's are well fed with these dudes.
Soooooo,,,,
Sir dessert dog....
I have a 338 win mag
And I have a 35 whelen,,,
No scope for ether yet,,,
Would it work to buy one good long range scope becoming of the 338 distances,,,
And then when needed quick release change that same scope to the 35 whelen,,,,?????
I personally do not like switching scopes between rifles. Getting a scope dialed in perfect and properly is a process that takes time (trip to the range/mounting/leveling/torque), and money (Ammo it takes to re-zero scope). I consider my scopes to be an integral part of the rifle; like the bolt or trigger.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113
I thought the same,
But I keep hearing that the 35 whalen and 338 win are so close up to 300 yards,,
I thought that mabe a quick detach mount setup would not hurt ,,,
Since they are both rugar m77 mark 2 zytel stock...
I am going to have the 338 fitted with guide gun sights of some kind,,,
Like from new England custom gun at the extreme rear,
Or mid barrel V,
The 35 Whalen already has the guide gun sights,
Just no barrel band sling attachment ..
Thanx 4 the videos..
@@danielravenstar4442 Even though the ballistics are close, they are not the same. Also, every barrel shoots different and you will have different POA/POI between any two rifles.
Would you say that 338 win mag is good for African dangerous game lion, lepord, etc.
Ive always heard that .358 calibers hit noticably harder, kill noticably faster, and produce noticably better blood trails than their .338 countrrparts. Have you witnessed this to be true?
Not really. What I have seen is the cartridges with more kinetic energy on target kill faster (with similar bullet designs). For instance, the 338 win mag kills a little better than the 35 Whelen, But the 358 Norma crushes the 338 Win Mag. Good blood trails require complete pass-throughs, and that has more to do with bullet design than the cartridge (a TSX in 25-06 will out-penetrate a VLD in 30-06).
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 I ask because i am thinking about reboring a 3006 to either 338-06 or 35 Whelen. I've read that the 338 will give a little bit flatter trajectory, carry energy a little better, and have greater bullet selection....but then I read a lot of the 338 cal bullets are designed to work on game at higher velocity.. ..then that makes me think...If I go 338-06, let's say the max range for desired energy is 525 yards....but the bullet only performs out to 400 yards, then i have a 400 yard rifle. Then I think of I go 35 whelen, and let's say the max range for desired energy and trajectory happens at 450 yards, but the bullet only performs put to 400 yards also...then that is also a 400 yard rifle. I know there are tons of bullets for both, but I am sure there is probably more of a short list that will perform optimally when plugging in specific criteria. I also wonder if the bore to volume ratio will give me a little bit more in velocity with the whelen. I like performance, but I really like versatility.
Hej det är bra Kaliber 338 win❤😊
Do you like the 300 WSM ?
Does what the 300wm does, but more efficiently and with better COAL specs. It is the twin of the great old 300 H&H Magnum. What's not to like.