30-338 Lapua Improved or 30-378 Weatherby Magnum

wildcat · #1 05-13-2008, 09:59 PM

I was going to turn my 300 WSM Varminter into a switch barrel, however, I have decided I am going to build another full blown custom rig. I am trying to decide between the 30-338 Lapua Improved or a 30-378 Match with a .339 tight neck. I was originally going to build the 30-338 Lapua Improved. However, I am thinking the Match Chambered 30-378 Weatherby Magnum, with a .339 tight neck, would be a good choice for the 210 Berger VLD, 210 MatchKing and the 240grn Matchking.

I have already ordered a Bartlein 32", 1-10 twist, 1.250 straight cyclinder barrel. With a 32" barrel, I think it would be safe to say the 30-378 should be able to push the 240's between 3200fps to 3300fps with no problems. The total weight of this rifle will probably fall between 22 to 25 pounds and it will be installed with a brake.

I want to go with the 30 cal over the 338 because of better bullet selection. This rifle will be used for long range varminting. I would like to hear what you all think about these two cartridges.

W.

PS. Richard e-mailed me today and the 300 Varminter will be shipped next Friday, the 23rd.

jwp475 · #2 05-14-2008, 09:56 AM

How fast could you push a 110 grain out of one of those babies?

SUNDEVIL · #3 05-14-2008, 10:22 AM

47,000fps . So fast that the bullet would go into the future. I would use the 30-378. I am a fan I have two now and another being built. I dont care that much for the whole fireforming process. I also like the Lazzeroni warbird!

royinidaho · #4 05-14-2008, 10:32 AM

My thoughts are that any cartridge that uses Lapua brass is better than any similar cartridge using any of the other manufacturer's brass.

Boss Hoss · #5 05-14-2008, 03:46 PM

Roy hit the nail on the head with that one! No further comment from me is needed...

wildcat · #6 05-14-2008, 06:22 PM

Thanks for the info guys.

W.

phorwath · #7 05-14-2008, 08:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by royinidaho

My thoughts are that any cartridge that uses Lapua brass is better than any similar cartridge using any of the other manufacturer's brass.

I would agree with the exception of RWS brass. I would use RWS brass over Lapua - given the option. The 404 Jeffery RWS brass I have used in my 338 Imperial over the years, and currently use in my 338 Edge, is a step above the quality of Lapua brass, in my opinion. Tough as nails and dimensional uniformity held to tight tolerances. I understand a fair number of benchrest competitors feel likewise. It's a shame RWS is no longer manufacturing 404 Jeffery brass.