Hey guys, long time lurker, new member here.
I'm planning on building a light-ish weight 338 for a designated elk gun. Basically want to keep the weight around 9 pounds with a ~30 oz scope. Don't want a barrel longer than 26 plus a brake and not interested in a Norma/Lapua. Planning to shoot 250-270gr bullets(bergers/accubonds/hammers) inside of 750 yards on game.
Here's my plan:
Defiance AnTi action
3.825 Wyatt's box/BDL
26 inch Bartlien 3B or other brand #5 fluted
Hawkins 2 port brake
B&C sporter stock(temporary until I get a McMillan Rem Hunter)
Mid power scope in the 30 oz ballpark
I'm leaning towards the 338 RUM with a +p throat from DE, but open to other suggestions.
Thoughts, experiences, suggestions?
I had a similar plan and desire for a lighter weight and handy hard hitter. It is definitely doable but I would tweak your plan slightly. My build came right out at 9lbs 2oz and the recoil is very manageable but you'll want a better brake. So far I've only run factory Barnes 250gr LRX, verified MV 2860fps. I have rounds loaded with 250gr EH and 270 ELDX to test as well.
My build: 338 RUM, Manners EH4, Borden Ti Action, 24" Proof Sendero 9.4, Ryan Pierce 5 port Ti brake, TT Special flat, Murphy Ti Rail, TSR SL Rings, Vortex Razor AMG 6-24x.
Thoughts:
1. I would go with a CF barrel from Proof or Bartlein and stick with 24"... 26" plus a long brake, gets REALLY long.
2. Brake: Check out the 5 port Ti from Ryan Pierce-- its awesome, be happy to send you some videos shooting my rifle.
3. Stock: I'm a big fan of the Manners MCS (or the lighter but same profile EH4). If you want to save some weight look at the Proof Lightweight Hunter. The fore end on the McM Hunter has just too much flex for me especially if you are loading up on a bipod.
4. Rings: You can save some weight with the 20moa Hawkins Hybrids!
Good luck and let us know how it goes!