Talk me out of a 30-338.??

[Jake in NC]

Ref: 30" Lilja@1.350 straight 1:11 3 groove, Python action(RB LP RE), 2oz Jewell, Lone Wolf stock..

.. Can anyone who actually knows come up with a reason not to go with this cartridge.?? Original intent is for live varminting and a little 1K+ plinking w/180-200gr bullets.. There's only a little info available on the net as far as loads and ballistics go but that combined with the suggestions of some others led me to start with this cartridge.. Velocities are not max but do seem to be "proper".. Any useful input appreciated.. JiNC


30-338 Info

[ 07-12-2003: Message edited by: S1 ]

Click on his link, 30-338 winchester.

[ 07-12-2003: Message edited by: S1 ]

[Darryl Cassel]

Hello Jake

The bullets and Lilja barrel that S1 mentioned will be fine for the 30/338 and possibly a bit better in the 300 Win Mag. which has a better brass manufacturer selection then the 338 Win mag.

The 30/338 is a good cartridge, but if I was trying to talk you out of it, the replacement would be the 300 Win mag.

DC

[ 07-12-2003: Message edited by: S1 ]

[BountyHunter]

Jake

Couple points to consider

1. I would recommend a HV taper to barrel. Think you will find better balance on rest, easier to tune and to make weight for LG class shooting (PA 16.5 lbs and IBS is 17 lbs). Straight 1.35 is going to put you over depending on scope.

2. 1-11 twist puts you in the range of 180-220 gr bullets, that means you are in the right case capacity size, but 300 WSM is on lower end of that range (180-210 tops). Mine loves 190 JLKs. Which have better quality I think than Bergers, which had quality control problems this last year with 210 jackets.

3. 30-338 is great LR round. Was used for years by LR highpower shooters. Just means you will have to sort through lots of 338 cases.

4. Norma 300 WSM brass will probably be higher qualilty but heard it is much lower in case capacity. Do not have figures.

5. Order your own tight neck reamer from Dave Kiff at Precision Tool(541) 826-5808 (about $150). You can send reamer to Jim Carstensen (advertises on Benchrestcentral.com and Precision shooting). He has method for using chamber reamer to make custom bushing sizing die set for $175.

Good luck

BH