Anybody have any pet loads for .338-06?

MustangMike · 2025-02-06T23:59:43-0600

fta0303 said:
SOme of the loads given in reply to you request are for the Ackley Improved version of the .338-06. The AI has greater case capacity than the standard cartridge. So thise AI loads, if they are max, are going to give you overpressure. Just wanted to point this out....

I built a 338-06 from a Ruger American Rifle with a Shaw 24" stainless spiral fluted barrel. I load the Barnes 210 gr TTSX bullet over 60.5 grains of H-380. It cronographed 2,828 FPS with a SD of 11.2. The 200 grain SST also shoots well with the same load. They are the ONLY 2 bullets I have been able get to shoot well, but the Barnes is what I wanted to hunt with anyway.

It shoots 1/2" at 100 yds if I do my part. Took my first Black Bear with it last year (at close range) and a Buck at 128 yds.

MustangMike · 2025-02-07T00:11:49-0600

I was pleasantly surprised with my chronographed velocity (using the Garmin Zero). I expected them to be about 100 FPS less based on the Hodgdon Reloading Data available online. This data also reflects that H-380 provides good velocity with less pressure than most other powders listed.

I believe this is an ideal woods hunting cartridge. If the 308 is ideal for 30 caliber, the 06 case is ideal for 338. It provides more energy than a 30-06 at all ranges, and more than most 35 Whelen loads past 100 yards. IMO, the 210 grain Barnes TTSX is one of the best hunting bullets to use in this cartridge. The 200 grain SST bullets are much less expensive and are good for target practice.

Anybody have any pet loads for .338-06?

MustangMike

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MustangMike

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