Delving into the History
.338 Federal
The .338 Federal emerged much later, a collaboration between the ammunition manufacturer Federal and the rifle manufacturer Sako. The goal was to create a cartridge that could provide excellent ballistics in a short-action rifle. This meant increased versatility and lighter rifle options for the hunter. It offers impressive performance for its size, designed to handle medium to large game with respectable range and manageable recoil. It was specifically engineered to make it easy for hunters to use a wide variety of modern rifles.
.338 Winchester Magnum
The .338 Winchester Magnum, on the other hand, is a classic. It first saw the light of day decades ago, a period where the emphasis was placed on creating high-powered cartridges capable of long-range performance. This cartridge, initially designed to work with the Winchester Model 70 rifle, was designed from the start to excel in situations requiring substantial stopping power at extended distances. It quickly found favor with hunters pursuing elk, moose, and even larger game animals. It holds a legacy of performance and reliability, making it one of the most recognizable names in the hunting community.
Ballistics, Performance, and Comparison
Cartridge Dimensions and Design
At the heart of any cartridge comparison lie the ballistic properties, the science of projectile motion. This is where we truly see how the .338 Federal and .338 Winchester Magnum stack up against each other.
The dimensions of the casing play a critical role. The .338 Winchester Magnum, with its significantly longer case, has a larger powder capacity. This larger volume is what gives it the ability to push heavier bullets at higher velocities. The .338 Federal, being based on a shorter case (often adapted from a .308 Winchester parent case), inherently has a smaller powder capacity. This makes it a more compact cartridge, contributing to the lighter rifle options.
Velocity and Trajectory
When we compare muzzle velocities, we begin to see the practical impact of these dimensional differences. The .338 Winchester Magnum, especially with a heavier bullet, consistently achieves higher muzzle velocities. For instance, a 200-grain bullet might leave the muzzle of a .338 Winchester Magnum at speeds exceeding 3000 feet per second (fps), while the same bullet weight from a .338 Federal might travel closer to 2700 fps. These numbers directly translate into flatter trajectories and increased downrange energy.
Examining trajectory further highlights the differences. The flatter the trajectory, the less the bullet drops over distance. A flatter trajectory simplifies aiming, especially at longer ranges. The .338 Winchester Magnum, due to its higher velocity, exhibits a flatter trajectory, meaning the bullet will travel a straighter path for a longer distance. The .338 Federal, while still capable, has a more pronounced bullet drop at longer distances. This does not mean that the .338 Federal is ineffective, but that the shooter must be mindful of compensating for drop at greater ranges.
Energy and Downrange Performance
Energy figures tell the tale of striking power. The .338 Winchester Magnum carries significantly more energy at the muzzle and, more importantly, retains more energy at longer ranges. This means the .338 Winchester Magnum delivers a more potent blow at greater distances, crucial for larger game animals. The .338 Federal, while still packing a punch, loses energy more rapidly as the bullet travels. The difference in energy is a direct result of the higher velocity and typically heavier bullet weights associated with the .338 Winchester Magnum.
Real-World Considerations
Rifle Availability and Cost
Beyond the pure ballistics, real-world considerations such as rifle and ammunition availability play a key role in the final cartridge choice.
Rifle availability is an important factor. Both calibers are readily available, but the breadth of options may vary. The .338 Winchester Magnum, being a long-standing caliber, has a greater selection of rifles from various manufacturers. You’ll find many brands and models, with different actions like bolt-action rifles, chambered for this cartridge. The .338 Federal, while still common, may have fewer rifle choices, particularly in specific action types. However, the trend is toward more rifle options chambered in .338 Federal, as it has become a more popular choice.
The costs associated with purchasing a rifle can vary. Rifles chambered in .338 Winchester Magnum may sometimes be slightly more expensive, given the wider selection of premium brands. However, prices depend on the rifle’s quality and build, and the cost of the rifle isn’t determined only by the caliber. The .338 Federal rifles, especially those featuring short-action designs, can be found at competitive prices and sometimes even lower.
Ammunition Availability and Cost
Ammunition availability and costs also influence the decision. The .338 Winchester Magnum benefits from its long history and widespread popularity. Factory ammunition is readily available at most gun stores and online retailers. Similarly, the .338 Federal also boasts a good selection of factory loads. Ammunition costs fluctuate based on the manufacturer, bullet type, and availability, but they are usually within a similar price range.
Recoil and Shootability
One vital consideration is the recoil. The .338 Winchester Magnum delivers significantly more recoil than the .338 Federal. The larger powder charge and higher velocities produce a more forceful push against the shooter’s shoulder. This can impact accuracy and follow-up shot times. The .338 Federal, with its lower recoil, is generally considered easier to shoot, which in turn can lead to better accuracy. However, recoil is subjective and depends on the shooter’s physical build and experience. The weight of the rifle also heavily influences perceived recoil.
Putting It To Use: Hunting Applications
Hunting Applications .338 Federal
Choosing the right tool for the job is essential. This also applies to hunting, where cartridge selection directly impacts the success of your hunt.
The .338 Federal shines in a versatile role. It is an excellent choice for deer, black bear, and elk hunting at moderate ranges. It delivers enough power and energy to take down these animals cleanly, but with a recoil that allows for quick follow-up shots. Its effectiveness is maximized at ranges within a few hundred yards, making it ideal for wooded terrain.
Hunting Applications .338 Winchester Magnum
The .338 Winchester Magnum is designed for bigger game and greater distances. It is a preferred choice for elk, moose, and larger bear species, as well as other big game animals that may be encountered at greater distances. It has the power to penetrate deeply and deliver a devastating impact at extended ranges. It also does well in open areas where long-range shots are more common.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages and Disadvantages .338 Federal
Both cartridges possess their strengths and weaknesses, depending on the hunter’s needs and preferences.
The .338 Federal’s advantages lie in its versatility and manageable recoil. It is suited for a wide variety of medium-sized game and delivers excellent performance in various hunting environments. The lower recoil makes it suitable for shooters of all experience levels, and the shorter cartridge allows for lighter, more compact rifles, making it a good choice for hunting in areas where mobility is important. The main drawback is its shorter effective range compared to the .338 Winchester Magnum.
Advantages and Disadvantages .338 Winchester Magnum
The .338 Winchester Magnum provides substantial power and reach. It excels in long-range hunting and provides the necessary energy for the largest game animals. Its heavier bullet weights and higher velocities deliver tremendous stopping power and flat trajectories. However, the heavier recoil can be a disadvantage for some shooters.
Choosing Your Cartridge: The Decision
The final decision boils down to your hunting style and target animals.
If you primarily hunt deer, black bear, or elk at shorter to moderate ranges, the .338 Federal is an excellent choice. It offers a balance of power, accuracy, and manageability. Consider this round if you prefer a lighter rifle and appreciate reduced recoil.
If you primarily hunt elk, moose, or bear at longer distances, or require a cartridge that can handle a wider range of big game, the .338 Winchester Magnum is a strong contender. Keep in mind your personal tolerance for recoil and the need for a heavier rifle.
Conclusion
Carefully consider your shooting skill level and the typical hunting conditions. Factors like terrain, expected shot distances, and wind conditions all play a role. If you have any doubts, seek the advice of experienced hunters or gunsmiths, but be certain that your ultimate choice suits your hunting needs.
Both the .338 Federal and the .338 Winchester Magnum are effective hunting cartridges, each with its own strengths and best applications. Your choice should ultimately reflect your preferred hunting style, target game species, and personal shooting abilities. The .338 Federal provides a balanced combination of power and manageability, while the .338 Winchester Magnum offers extended range and the needed power for larger game. The key is to assess your needs carefully, evaluate both cartridges based on the factors presented, and select the cartridge that best aligns with your requirements to ensure a successful hunt. Make sure that you have the right gear for your hunt. You are the most important part of your hunt. With proper planning and a careful understanding of the .338 Federal and .338 Winchester Magnum, you will be equipped to make the best decision.
