I am new to this site and I can see that there is a lot of knowledge and experience to draw upon here. I am considering a custom build for my next hunting rifle but my experience is limited to semi factory rifles. My goal for this rifle is to maximize the effective range of a .338 bullet from a ~7 lb or less naked rifle. Yes, I understand that means heavy recoil, which is fine as long as it doesn't cause direct accuracy issues to the rifle. I am using a 338 win mag tikka t3x currently in a mesa precision stock (6.5 lb naked weight) and recoil is a complete non-issue without any muzzle device. It's a fine set up but I think the thin steel barrel is a bit whippy so I am looking into a stiffer barrel via carbon wrap. I am also left handed if that makes a difference.
So, my biggest questions right now are which action and cartridge to look further into. I understand the 338 caliber hasn't had much innovation of late, where do you think it is headed? 33 Nosler, 33-300 PRC, 338 Sherman max, or will the 338 RUM essentially remain the largest hunting 338 suitable for a lightweight hunting rifle? I would hate to put $3k into an ultimate hunting rifle to not be able to find brass for 10-20 years down the road.
So, my biggest questions right now are which action and cartridge to look further into. I understand the 338 caliber hasn't had much innovation of late, where do you think it is headed? 33 Nosler, 33-300 PRC, 338 Sherman max, or will the 338 RUM essentially remain the largest hunting 338 suitable for a lightweight hunting rifle? I would hate to put $3k into an ultimate hunting rifle to not be able to find brass for 10-20 years down the road.
