33 nosler or 338 rum

Subzero

Well-Known Member
Joined
Oct 9, 2019
Messages
85
Location
AZ
Hi guys,
I've been thinking about building another rifle. It would be built on a r700 action. I would like to build something in a .338 caliber that would fit in a factory long action (<3.700 coal).

Currently I'm thinking about the 33 nosler (expensive brass!) or 338 rum (hard to find brass/more recoil than I need).
It would be used for elk no further than 800yds. I also shoot my rifles for fun/practice out to 1,000yds. I would like to shoot the 285eldm out of a 26-28" barrel at around 2,850fps.

What do you guys think?
 
You can't go wrong either way.

My partner has the "edge", and is building the Nosler for a second rifle, and a little lighter profile. I have the .338 RUM, and wouldn't change, but see the appeal of the Nosler.

Recoil can be managed a number of ways. I run the 180 Accubonds at 3550 fps for fun. Rock chucks, and steel to 800 yards aren't an issue. I haven't had opportunity to shoot that load farther.

I think finished rifle profile would make my decision. If you're going 26-28" barrel, and 285 grain plus bullets, I think I'd go with the RUM.

Good Luck!
 
340 weatherby does seem to be right between the 33 nosler and 338rum. The downside is the long 3.700" coal, which would leave me with no room to try to reach the lands. I've heard weatherbys have a really long throat. Also, I'm not a huge fan of belted cartridges.
Thanks for the idea though.
 
The limiting factor in this situation is your COAL. I had my r700 opened up to accept ~4" COAL for my 338 edge. It was the right decision. The 33 cal bullets are long and eat powder capacity if not seated long. My complaint with the 338 rum is the lack of brass. You can make edge brass from 300 RUM cases.
No experience with the nosler.

Component availability is a major consideration right now.
 
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