.338 Lapua Magnum maximum C.I.P. cartridge dimensions. All sizes in millimeters (mm).

Americans would define the shoulder angle at alpha/2 ≈ 20 degrees. The common rifling twist rate for this cartridge is 254 mm (1 in 10 in), 6 grooves, Ø lands = 8.38 mm, Ø grooves = 8.58 mm, land width = 2.79 mm and the primer type is large rifle magnum. 338 Lapua Ammo Canada

History Of 338 Lapua Ammo

The 338 Lapua Magnum cartridge was developed in the 1980s by Finnish ammunition manufacturer Lapua. The cartridge was designed to provide long-range snipers with a cartridge that could deliver the required accuracy, range, and stopping power. The cartridge was initially developed for the Finnish Army, but it soon gained popularity among military and law enforcement agencies around the world. 338 Lapua Ammo Canada

The loaded .338 cartridge is 14.93 mm (0.588 in) in diameter (rim) and 93.5 mm (3.68 in) long. It can penetrate better-than-standard military body armor at ranges of up to 1,000 meters (1,090 yd) and has a maximum effective range of about 1,750 meters (1,910 yd) with C.I.P. conforming ammunition at sea level conditions. Muzzle velocity is dependent on barrel length, seating depth, and powder charge, and varies from 880 to 915 m/s (2,890 to 3,000 ft/s) for commercial loads with 16.2-gram (250 gr) bullets, which corresponds to about 6,525 J (4,813 ft⋅lbf) of muzzle energy.

Why Choose 338 Lapua Ammo?

The 338 Lapua Magnum cartridge offers several advantages over other cartridges when it comes to long-range shooting. Firstly, the cartridge has a high ballistic coefficient, which means that it retains its velocity and energy over long distances. This results in a flatter trajectory and less bullet drop, making it easier to hit targets at long ranges. Secondly, the cartridge has excellent stopping power due to its large bullet size and high muzzle energy. This makes it an ideal choice for hunting large game or taking out targets at extreme ranges.

Best Rifles for 338 Lapua Ammo

To get the most out of your 338 Lapua ammo, you need a rifle that is designed to handle its power and accuracy. Here are some of the best rifles for 338 Lapua ammo:

• Accuracy International AX338
• Barrett MRAD
• Sako TRG 42
• Christensen Arms ELR
• Savage Arms 110 FCP HS Precision

Ballistics of 338 Lapua Ammo

To understand the performance of 338 Lapua ammo, it’s important to look at its ballistics. Here are some of the key ballistic factors to consider:338 Lapua Ammo Canada

Muzzle Velocity

The muzzle velocity of 338 Lapua ammo can range from 2,800 to 3,000 feet per second (fps), depending on the specific load. This high-velocity results in a flat trajectory and minimal bullet drop at long ranges.338 Lapua Ammo Canada

Muzzle Energy

The muzzle energy of 338 Lapua ammo can range from 4,000 to 5,000 foot-pounds (ft-lbs), depending on the specific load. This high energy gives the cartridge excellent stopping power and makes it effective against large games and targets at extreme ranges. 338 Lapua Ammo Canada

Trajectory

The trajectory of 338 Lapua ammo is relatively flat, thanks to its high muzzle velocity and ballistic coefficient. At 1,000 yards, the bullet drop of 338 Lapua ammo can be as little as 20 inches, making it easier to hit targets at extreme ranges.

Recoil

The recoil of 338 Lapua ammo can be quite significant, especially when firing from a lightweight rifle. To manage recoil, many shooters use a muzzle brake or a suppressor to reduce the felt recoil.

Long-Range Shooting with 338 Lapua Ammo

Long-range shooting with 338 Lapua ammo requires skill and practice, but it can be extremely rewarding. Here are some tips for long-range shooting with 338 Lapua ammo:

Wind Drift

Wind drift can be a significant factor when shooting at long ranges. To compensate for wind drift, you need to understand the wind direction and speed and adjust your aim accordingly.338 Lapua Ammo Canada

Bullet Drop

Bullet drop is another factor to consider when shooting at long ranges. You need to understand the trajectory of your specific load and adjust your aim to compensate for bullet drop.338 Lapua Ammo Canada

Shooting Positions

To shoot accurately at long ranges, you need to use a stable shooting position. This could include using a bipod, shooting from a benchrest, or using a shooting bag to support your rifle.

Specifications On  338 Lapua Ammo

Ballistic Performance For The 338 Lapua Magnum