Info request re 338 build

[dglatting]

My goal next year is to stretch myself out to 1,500 yards and I plan to go .338LM, after being talked off the .50 cliff by a sniper from a local base. I have shot my share of .308 but I have not owned a .338. I have done some research but I have some questions.

My perspective build looks like this:

* .338 Lapua Magnum
* Templar action.
* Fluted barrel?
* Badger Thruster muzzle break?
* AICS Green folding or fixed stock. Maybe A3-5?
* 34 mm rings (will mount a Schmidt and Bender 5-25x56)
* Considering Hornady 285g BTHP MATCH for ammo selection. Will have to evaluate various brands.

I have seen folks (not me) mount flash suppressors on their .308 precision rifles yet I see no mention of this practice on Sniper's Hide. Are there negative consequences to mounting a flash suppressor or is it something that's just not done?

Is there some performance data somewhere on muzzle breaks for the .338?

I have not seen discussions of .338 barrels from the perspective of manufacturer preferences or length. Could you give me some words of advice?

I am considering an AICS stock (preferred, not AX) or a McMillian A3-5. Any comments either way?

Are there any negative long range consequences to having Cerekote or other coatings applied to the barrel? (I assume not.)

What is a reasonable barrel life for a .338 weapon system?

TIA

 

[Km22]

Re: Info request re 338 build

Hi,

Sounds like a good set up, but I'd highly suggest getting into reloading, or saving the brass and sending it into Southwest for them to reload. Paying $100/20 rounds gets old very quickly! If you go AICS, I highly recommend getting the folding stock, because on the fixed stock, you need to take the cheek piece off the stock to take the bolt out. I think 26-28" is a good length. McMillan stocks are top notch as well. I wouldn't worry about the paint on the barrel. I run mine on a 28" Rock Creek barrel in an AICS. Hope some of this helps. Fun rifle to shoot!

 

[cega]

Re: Info request re 338 build

All good components on your build list. As to the items you had question marks next to here are my thoughts:

Fluted barrel: I prefer fluted barrels though right now my 338LM has a non-fluted on it and will until it is shot out. That being said I have a new Bartlein fluted blank in the safe ready to go on.

Badger Thruster muzzle brake: I have an APA Fat Bastard on mine and it is very effective. Even better is shooting it with my supressor.

AICS or ??: I have my 338LM in an AICS 2.0 and really like it. I have my other two precision rifles in AICS 2.0 chassis as well so moving between rifles keeps the ergos largely the same.

Definitely will want to get yourself in to reloading for this caliber. It is expensive enough to shoot if you reload, I can't imagine having to live off store bought factory ammo at the prices they charge. That of course presumes you will shoot a lot I guess.

Barrel length: My first 338LM barrel was a 27" finish Bartlein. The one I have on it now is 25" and I have not seen any real meaningful performance changes from the missing length. I find the 25" version of this rifle to be easier to hump around and get in and out of the safe, car etc.

Cerakote: Absolutely do it, you will like how easy it is to wipe down and obviously unlike a blued barrel no worries about etching fingerprints etc.

Barrel life: Hmm, tough one to answer since a lot will depend on how hot the ammo is etc. I have about 1k through this one here and it still shoots lights out but I have not gone to the trouble to measure erosion so I can't say anything on that.