Gunsmithing 338 Lapua improved questions

[ohnomrbillk]

Just looking for some input. I'm gathering parts now.

I've always liked the ackley cartridges due to the lack of case trimming after the initial fire form and clean up.

I'm leaning towards a 338 Lapua. I will have CIP capable bottom metal and AI CIP magazines.

I think I'm envisioning a shoulder and body taper like the 338 Norma, but utilizing the full length Lapua case.

I don't care to push the round significantly hotter than CIP spec ammo, but like the idea of my case length being more stable due to the sharper shoulder.

1. Is anyone selling commercial dies that are not special order? I can only find the RCBS based on the Clymer reamer.

2. Anyone have a reamer spec figured out that worked well? I'd like a print to get started with.

 

[Jeffvn]

Re: 338 Lapua improved questions

There are lots of 338LM Improved versions floating about. As far as I could tell when I did mine, there is no standard configuration for shoulder angle, take out the case taper, or how far you push the shoulder.

Jeffvn

 

[LRI]

Re: 338 Lapua improved questions

According to a few customers that shoot the big magnum long range game, the improved 338LM catches the cartridge back up with the 338 Edge.

I love the Lapua and own a couple of them in various flavors. That being said they are hungry bitches. What the Edge lacks in brass quality could (opinion) be overshadowed in affordability/performance.

Just and idea to ponder.

C.

 

[DAVETOOLEY]

Re: 338 Lapua improved questions

From experience I'm not a fan of a 40 degree shoulders. My version has a 30 degree shoulder. FL dies work better regardless of case diameter with 30 degree shoulders. Much easier to control the shoulder bump back as brass work hardens.

 

[ohnomrbillk]

Re: 338 Lapua improved questions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: C. Dixon</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What the Edge lacks in brass quality could (opinion) be overshadowed in affordability......

Just and idea to ponder.

C. </div></div>

Mr. Dixon,

I've read opinions that the Edge brass only lasts around 4 reloadings, while the Lapua lasts closer to a dozen. The poster suggested that this fact alone made the affordability a mute point. Do you have any input on that?

Thank you,

William