338 Win Mag, factory load?, Win Model 70 Cl

[papabear]

I need a moose load for my newish Model 70 classic synthetic stainless in 338 Win Mag., 26 in. barrel.  I would lean toward a heavier, "hold together" bullet, but I want accuracy (which I would define as 1 1/2 in at 100 yds.).  I realize that accuracy is a very "individual rifle/load" thing, but are there any factory loads that tend towards pretty reliable accuracy that you guys know about?  I have only tried Winchester Failsafes, the 200 gr. Ballistic tips are too light but about 2" groups.  The 230 grain Failsafes group all over the 6 inch bull.  I am a pretty decent benchrest shooter, and the trigger is now 3 1/2 pounds, so I am sure the problem is the load, not the gun or shooter. I am not going to handload this rifle like I usually do, and am willing to buy a lot of single boxes of ammo, but need a little direction before plunking down $30-40 a box for ammo.  Thanks.

[JD338]

papabear,

Take a look at the Federal Nosler 250 gr Partition load. Will be more than enough for Moose. This is my bullet of choice for my 338 RUM. I am planning a Moose hunt in the next 1-2 years.

Where are you going for your Moose hunt?

Regards,

JD338

[papabear]

I will try the Nosler 250.  I have yet to find a good grouping load, and my problem could be elsewhere, like bedding.  

I will be hunting northern central British Columbia, in the Spatsizi Wilderness area.

[Lawdog]

papabear,

I would use the Federal Premium Vital Shok 225 gr. Barnes TSX in .338 Win. Mag. for a great factory load.  No Moose living would stand up to these.  Should also stand up to any bear that might come along to dispute your claim to ownership of the Moose carcass.  Better accuracy and penetration than the 250 gr. Nosler Partition.  Lawdog
 

[1911crazy]

I use the Winchester 225gr in my Remington 338win mag. I can put two bullets thru the same hole at 100yds using this factory ammo.  In hand held rapid fire standing up I have shot non stop quick as i can run the bolt put 3rds an 1" from each bullseye at 100yds. with the same winchester ammo.  The blackbear i shot didn't seem to like this ammo too the bullet when straight thru it and broke four of its ribs on the exit too.  It dropped dead on the spot after a brief second in the air off all fours and a big thud when it hit the ground like it was body slammed.  I'm sure the 225gr'ers  would do very well on moose too.  With this kind of accuracy from factory ammo why reload unless i wanted to use a special bullet.    BigBill

I met a guy at the local range who hunts all over the world and he said he's very happy with the 225gr winchester bullet in his 338win.mag. the only thing the ammo is hard to find sometimes so be buys it all up when he sees it.  I shot new factory remington ammo in my rifle when it was brand new and it had very poor accuracy with it until i sent the new factory winchester ammo down the pipe.  Each rifle may vary in accuracy with different brands of ammo but i would try winchester first.