Hunting with .338 Federal?

[High Tower]

Does anyone here have any experience with the .338 Federal for hunting? Or know anyone who does?

I was always intrigued by this round and I just got a barrel for my LMT MWS for it. So once I get the replacement barrel scew in, I will see how she shoots. I would like to use it for deer hunting this year.

Also, any recommendations for 5 round mags for the .308/.338? Its a state restriction here.

[AKDoug]

I don't know anything about mag availability, but the round is a complete and total hammer. I have a friend that has killed moose and a brown bear with it and they were both one shot kills. It is suitable for any big game in North America.

[500grains]

I believe the standard factory load in the .338 Fed is 180 grains, which has low sectional density. So deep penetration should not be expected.

[High Tower]

I believe the standard factory load in the .338 Fed is 180 grains, which has low sectional density. So deep penetration should not be expected.

The factory loadings range quite a bit. 220 grain seems to be standard as well as the 180.

[High Tower]

I don't know anything about mag availability, but the round is a complete and total hammer. I have a friend that has killed moose and a brown bear with it and they were both one shot kills. It is suitable for any big game in North America.

Thanks for the insight! There just doesn't seem to be a lot of first hand accounts on the internet of folks using this round for hunting.

I did get the barrel for the LMT and have put a few rounds through it. It is a very pleasant .338 to shoot unlike the others. Using the same scope that was on with the .308, impact is only slightly lower with the .338 Federal.

[ICANHITHIMMAN]

Thanks for the insight! There just doesn't seem to be a lot of first hand accounts on the internet of folks using this round for hunting.

I did get the barrel for the LMT and have put a few rounds through it. It is a very pleasant .338 to shoot unlike the others. Using the same scope that was on with the .308, impact is only slightly lower with the .338 Federal.

Do you reload? I think its pretty cool you got the 338 barrel I cant wait to here more.

[High Tower]

I haven't reloaded in a few years but I'm working on getting back into it. I will definitely be reloading for this one.

[ICANHITHIMMAN]

I have some random 338 bullets no more than 10 or each Nosler BT and ACCUBONDS you want them? I will not use them.