.338 Federal vs .338 Lapua: A Comprehensive Comparison

When it comes to long-range shooting and hunting, the choice of cartridge is paramount. Two popular options often considered are the .338 Federal and the .338 Lapua Magnum. Both offer significant power, but they cater to different needs and scenarios. This article provides a detailed comparison of the .338 Federal vs .338 Lapua, examining their ballistics, performance, applications, and overall suitability for various shooting disciplines.

Understanding the .338 Federal

The .338 Federal is a medium-bore cartridge developed by Sako and Federal Cartridge Company, released in 2006. It was designed to offer magnum-like performance in short-action rifles, providing a flatter trajectory and more energy than cartridges like the .308 Winchester at moderate ranges. The .338 Federal is based on the .308 Winchester case necked up to accept a .338-inch bullet.

Key Features of the .338 Federal

• Short-Action Compatibility: Fits in AR-10 platform rifles, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
• Moderate Recoil: More manageable recoil compared to larger magnum cartridges, making it suitable for a wider range of shooters.
• Effective Range: Excellent performance out to 400 yards, making it ideal for hunting medium to large game.
• Versatile Bullet Weights: Available with bullet weights ranging from 180 to 210 grains.

Exploring the .338 Lapua Magnum

The .338 Lapua Magnum, also known as the 8.6x70mm, is a high-powered, long-range cartridge developed in the 1980s as a military sniper round. It’s designed to offer superior ballistics and terminal performance at extreme distances. The .338 Lapua is known for its accuracy and ability to defeat body armor at extended ranges, and has become a favorite among long-range shooters and military personnel alike.

Key Features of the .338 Lapua Magnum

• Long-Range Capability: Effective out to 1500 meters (approximately 1640 yards), making it a top choice for extreme long-range shooting.
• High Velocity and Energy: Delivers significant energy on target, ensuring reliable terminal performance.
• Heavy Bullet Weights: Typically uses bullet weights ranging from 250 to 300 grains.
• Flat Trajectory: Maintains a flat trajectory at long distances, reducing the need for excessive elevation adjustments.

Ballistic Performance: .338 Federal vs .338 Lapua

A crucial aspect of comparing the .338 Federal vs .338 Lapua lies in their ballistic performance. The .338 Lapua Magnum significantly outperforms the .338 Federal in terms of velocity, energy, and range. This difference stems from the .338 Lapua’s larger case capacity and ability to handle heavier bullets.

Velocity and Energy

The .338 Lapua Magnum typically achieves muzzle velocities of around 2,700 to 3,000 feet per second (fps) with 250 to 300-grain bullets. In contrast, the .338 Federal usually produces muzzle velocities of about 2,600 to 2,800 fps with 180 to 210-grain bullets. This higher velocity translates to greater energy on target, particularly at longer ranges.

Trajectory

Due to its higher velocity and heavier bullets, the .338 Lapua Magnum maintains a flatter trajectory than the .338 Federal. This flatter trajectory means less bullet drop at extended distances, making it easier to achieve accurate shots. While the .338 Federal offers a reasonably flat trajectory out to 400 yards, it experiences a more significant drop beyond that range compared to the .338 Lapua.

Effective Range

The .338 Lapua Magnum is designed for extreme long-range shooting, with an effective range of up to 1500 meters. The .338 Federal, while effective, is generally considered optimal for ranges up to 400 yards. Beyond this, its energy and trajectory diminish significantly, making it less suitable for long-range applications.

Recoil: Managing the Kick

Recoil is a significant factor when choosing a cartridge, especially for extended shooting sessions. The .338 Federal generally produces more manageable recoil compared to the .338 Lapua Magnum. The .338 Lapua delivers a substantial recoil impulse due to its larger case capacity and heavier bullets. Recoil management techniques, such as using muzzle brakes and recoil pads, are often necessary to mitigate the .338 Lapua’s kick.

Applications: Where Each Cartridge Shines

The .338 Federal and .338 Lapua Magnum serve distinct purposes and excel in different applications. Understanding these applications is crucial in determining which cartridge best suits your needs.

Hunting

The .338 Federal is well-suited for hunting medium to large game, such as deer, elk, and black bear, at moderate ranges. Its manageable recoil and adequate energy make it a practical choice for hunters who prioritize accuracy and comfort. The .338 Lapua Magnum, while capable of taking down larger game at extreme distances, is often considered overkill for most hunting scenarios due to its excessive power and recoil. However, for hunting dangerous game at long ranges, the .338 Lapua can be a viable option.

Long-Range Shooting

The .338 Lapua Magnum is the clear choice for long-range shooting competitions and tactical applications. Its superior ballistics, flat trajectory, and high energy retention make it ideal for engaging targets at distances exceeding 1000 yards. The .338 Federal, while accurate, lacks the long-range capabilities necessary for competitive shooting at extreme distances.

Military and Law Enforcement

The .338 Lapua Magnum has gained widespread use in military and law enforcement sniper roles. Its ability to penetrate body armor and deliver lethal force at long ranges makes it a valuable asset in tactical situations. The .338 Federal is not typically used in these roles due to its limited range and penetration capabilities compared to the .338 Lapua.

Rifle Platforms and Availability

The .338 Federal is designed to function in short-action rifles, including AR-10 platforms, making it more versatile in terms of rifle availability. The .338 Lapua Magnum, on the other hand, requires long-action rifles or specialized magnum actions, which can be more expensive and less common. Ammunition availability is also a factor to consider. While both cartridges are commercially available, the .338 Federal may be easier to find in standard sporting goods stores, whereas the .338 Lapua Magnum may be more readily available through specialty retailers or online.

Cost Comparison

Cost is an important consideration for many shooters. The .338 Lapua Magnum is generally more expensive than the .338 Federal, both in terms of ammunition and rifles. The higher cost of .338 Lapua ammunition reflects its specialized components and higher performance capabilities. Shooters should consider their budget and intended use when deciding between these two cartridges. [See also: Best Long Range Calibers for Beginners]

Pros and Cons: .338 Federal

Pros

• Manageable recoil
• Short-action compatibility
• Effective for hunting at moderate ranges
• Relatively affordable

Cons

• Limited long-range capabilities
• Lower energy compared to magnum cartridges

Pros and Cons: .338 Lapua Magnum

Pros

• Superior long-range performance
• High velocity and energy
• Effective against armored targets

Cons

• High recoil
• Expensive ammunition and rifles
• Requires specialized long-action rifles

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge

In the comparison of .338 Federal vs .338 Lapua, the choice depends largely on the intended application. The .338 Federal is a versatile and practical option for hunting medium to large game at moderate ranges, offering manageable recoil and short-action compatibility. The .338 Lapua Magnum, on the other hand, is a dedicated long-range cartridge designed for extreme distances and specialized applications. Consider your shooting needs, budget, and tolerance for recoil when making your decision. Both cartridges have their strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice will ultimately depend on your specific requirements. The .338 Federal provides a good balance of power and manageability, while the .338 Lapua offers unmatched long-range capabilities. [See also: .308 vs .338 Federal: Which is Best?] Ultimately, understanding the nuances of each cartridge will enable you to make an informed decision and optimize your shooting experience. Whether you prioritize short-action convenience with the .338 Federal or long-range dominance with the .338 Lapua, both offer distinct advantages in their respective domains. The key is to match the cartridge to the task at hand, ensuring that you have the right tool for the job. Therefore, when evaluating .338 Federal vs .338 Lapua, consider what distances you’ll typically be shooting and what game you intend to hunt. Thinking about those factors will help you come to a decision.