6.5x284 or 338 win mag?

[backwoods83]

I think your a little off.
6.5x284 140 berger vld 3050fps .612 G1 bc 1400ft elevation 1603ftlbs @ 600yards 26" barrel.
338wm 200 accubond 3000fps .414 G1 bc 1400ft elevation 1598ftlbs @ 600yards 26" barrel.
After that it just gets worse for the 338, that's why I said "midrange", at 600 yards the 338 has double the drop and wind drift and barely enough velocity to expand as it should and the "cute little" 6.5 is still cruising along at 2230, go figure.

[93trojan]

Actually, the 338 still has over 1500lbs at 700 yards and the 6.5 has around 1300. This is at 1400 ft elevation. Using the .515 bc from the ttsx 225 gr. I'm not knocking the 6.5....I just got one and WANT to use it!

[joelbiltz]

I'd go the 6.5x284. I am having Gunwerks build me one right now for a Mt goat hunt. I went with a TI action and. Carbon bbl though. This will be my second Gunwerks rifle. They are great. That little 6.5 will do a number on any elk. Congrats on the tag.

[charles bonner]

Originally Posted by 93trojan

Just found out that I drew a great New Mexico elk tag. I would usually be safe and take my 338.....BUT....my gunwerks 6.5x284 just came in and I am dying to use it on something this year. Since this is my only hunt, I am in a quandary.

What do you guys think?

OK: Enough arguing about the gun.Let's get to the important stuff. What unit and hunt did you draw in N.M.?I got unit 16C first hunt.Also got unit 16 rifle for deer.

[Warbird782]

Here is an idea...bring both! I would never go on any big game hunt without a backup rifle(unless limited on weight, space ect...) I have seen some pretty funky things stop a rifle from being hunt worthy while in the field. I have been made fun of by my "friends" for having more than one gun on deer hunts in my home state only to have to borrow one to one of them to make up for their equipment failures. Just an idea............

[93trojan]

Charles,

Pulled a unit 12 early rifle. From what I understand, there aren't huge #s of elk, but there are some very large bulls in the area.

Good luck on your hunt! Hope we both get whoppers

[Long Time Long Ranger]

You drew a premium elk tag and now you wonder if you should carry an elk rifle or a deer rifle. Think logically and carry the 338 winchester elk rifle. You may get one chance at a monster and you want the best elk rifle in your hands. This is a no brainer.