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338 Lapua Ammo Overview
The .338 Lapua Magnum was introduced in 1983 to meet military long-range sniping needs. Its design balances high power with precision for extended-range engagements. Today, it's popular among tactical marksmen and long-range hunters for its unmatched ballistic performance.
Why .338 Lapua Magnum Ammo is a Top Choice
- Exceptional long-range accuracy beyond 1,500 yards
- High kinetic energy for effective terminal performance
- Reliable in extreme weather and harsh environments
- Widely supported by major ammo manufacturers
- Compatible with precision sniper and long-range rifles
Key Variants
.338 Lapua Magnum 195gr FMJ
Full metal jacket load ideal for target shooting and training at extended ranges.
.338 Lapua Magnum 250gr BT
Boat tail bullet designed for precision and maximum ballistic coefficient in tactical applications.
.338 Lapua Magnum 286gr Sierra MatchKing
Match-grade round favored by competitive shooters focused on extreme long-range accuracy.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | .338 Lapua Magnum Ammo | 300 Winchester Magnum | 7mm Remington Magnum |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $5.00–$8.00 per 20 rounds | $4.00–$7.00 per 20 rounds | $3.00–$6.00 per 20 rounds |
| Typical Bullet Weight (grains) | 195–300 | 150–220 | 140–175 |
| Effective Range | Up to 1,500+ yards | Up to 1,200 yards | Up to 1,000 yards |
| Typical Muzzle Velocity (fps) | 2,800–3,000 | 2,900–3,150 | 2,900–3,300 |
| Notable Pro | Superior long-range stopping power | Widely available, versatile performance | Lower recoil, lighter rifles |
| Notable Con | Higher recoil, costlier ammo | Less effective at extreme distances | Reduced terminal energy compared to magnums |
Best Use Cases
- Military and law enforcement long-range sniping
- Precision target shooting and competitions
- Big-game hunting at extended distances
- Long-range marksmanship training
- Collectors of tactical and specialty calibers
FAQs
Can I use .338 Lapua Magnum ammo for hunting?
Yes, its high power and accuracy make it suitable for big-game hunting at extended ranges.
What rifles chamber .338 Lapua Magnum?
Bolt-action sniper rifles like the Accuracy International AXMC and Sako TRG are popular choices chambered for .338 Lapua Magnum.
How does .338 Lapua Magnum compare to .300 Winchester Magnum?
The .338 Lapua offers superior long-range performance and energy but with more recoil and higher ammo cost than the .300 Win Mag.
