338 Winchester Magnum vs 338 RUM: A Comprehensive Comparison
Choosing the right cartridge for your hunting needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with similar options. Two popular choices for large game hunting are the .338 Winchester Magnum and the .338 Remington Ultra Magnum (RUM). This article provides a detailed comparison of the 338 Winchester Magnum vs 338 RUM, examining their ballistics, recoil, effective range, and suitability for various hunting scenarios. Understanding the nuances between these cartridges will help you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements and hunting style.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into a head-to-head comparison, let’s establish a foundational understanding of each cartridge.
.338 Winchester Magnum
The .338 Winchester Magnum was introduced in 1958 and quickly gained popularity as a versatile cartridge suitable for a wide range of big game animals. It fires a .338-inch diameter bullet and is known for its relatively flat trajectory and significant stopping power. The 338 Winchester Magnum is a belted magnum cartridge, which contributes to its reliable feeding and extraction. It’s a popular choice for elk, moose, and bear hunting, providing a good balance of power and manageable recoil.
.338 Remington Ultra Magnum (RUM)
The .338 Remington Ultra Magnum (RUM), introduced in 1999, is a more modern cartridge designed for higher velocities and flatter trajectories than the 338 Winchester Magnum. It utilizes a larger case capacity to achieve these higher velocities, resulting in increased recoil. The 338 RUM is often favored by hunters seeking maximum range and energy delivery for long-range shots on large game animals. It’s particularly well-suited for hunting in open terrain where longer shots are common.
Ballistic Performance
Ballistics are a critical factor when comparing cartridges. Let’s examine the key ballistic characteristics of the 338 Winchester Magnum vs 338 RUM.
Velocity and Energy
The 338 RUM consistently outperforms the 338 Winchester Magnum in terms of velocity and energy. Due to its larger case capacity, the 338 RUM can hold more powder, allowing it to push bullets at significantly higher speeds. For example, a typical 250-grain bullet fired from a 338 Winchester Magnum might achieve a muzzle velocity of around 2650 fps, while the same bullet fired from a 338 RUM could reach 2950 fps or more. This translates to a substantial increase in muzzle energy for the 338 RUM.
This higher velocity also means that the 338 RUM retains its energy better at longer distances. The difference in energy becomes even more pronounced as the range increases. This is a crucial consideration for hunters planning to take shots at extended distances.
Trajectory
The higher velocity of the 338 RUM also results in a flatter trajectory. This means that the bullet drops less over a given distance, making it easier to aim accurately at longer ranges. Hunters using the 338 RUM will generally need to make fewer adjustments for bullet drop compared to those using the 338 Winchester Magnum. A flatter trajectory is particularly advantageous in situations where range estimation is difficult or when shooting at moving targets.
Ballistic Coefficient
The ballistic coefficient (BC) of a bullet is a measure of its ability to overcome air resistance. Bullets with higher BCs retain their velocity and energy better and are less affected by wind drift. While the ballistic coefficient is primarily a function of the bullet itself, the higher velocities achieved by the 338 RUM can further enhance the performance of high-BC bullets. Both cartridges can utilize a wide range of bullet types, but the 338 RUM‘s higher velocity gives it an edge in maximizing the benefits of aerodynamic bullets.
Recoil
Recoil is an important consideration, especially for hunters who are sensitive to it or who plan to take multiple shots. The 338 RUM generates significantly more recoil than the 338 Winchester Magnum due to its larger powder charge and higher velocities.
The felt recoil can vary depending on the rifle’s weight and design, as well as the shooter’s individual tolerance. However, as a general rule, the 338 RUM is a more punishing cartridge to shoot. This increased recoil can affect accuracy, especially during follow-up shots. Hunters who are not accustomed to heavy recoil may find it challenging to maintain consistent accuracy with the 338 RUM.
The 338 Winchester Magnum offers a more manageable recoil level, making it a more comfortable choice for many hunters. While it still packs a punch, the recoil is generally considered to be within a tolerable range for most experienced shooters. This makes it easier to maintain accuracy and control, particularly in situations where quick follow-up shots are necessary.
Effective Range
Effective range is the distance at which a cartridge can reliably deliver sufficient energy to ethically harvest game. The 338 RUM boasts a longer effective range than the 338 Winchester Magnum, primarily due to its higher velocity and flatter trajectory.
While the 338 Winchester Magnum is certainly capable of taking game at distances beyond 300 yards, its performance starts to decline significantly at longer ranges. The 338 RUM, on the other hand, can maintain its effectiveness out to 500 yards or even further, depending on the specific load and conditions. This makes it a better choice for hunting in open terrain where longer shots are common.
It’s important to note that ethical hunting requires accurate shot placement and a thorough understanding of the cartridge’s capabilities. Regardless of the cartridge used, hunters should always practice at various distances to ensure they can consistently hit their target within the effective range of their chosen load. [See also: Long Range Hunting Ethics]
Rifle Availability and Ammunition Cost
Both the 338 Winchester Magnum and the 338 RUM are chambered in a wide variety of rifles from different manufacturers. You’ll find bolt-action rifles chambered in both cartridges, offering a range of features and price points. However, rifles chambered in 338 Winchester Magnum might be slightly more readily available due to the cartridge’s longer history and widespread popularity.
Ammunition cost is another factor to consider. Generally, 338 RUM ammunition tends to be more expensive than 338 Winchester Magnum ammunition. This is primarily due to the larger powder charge and the more specialized nature of the cartridge. If you plan to do a lot of practice shooting, the cost difference can become significant. [See also: Reloading for Magnum Cartridges]
Hunting Applications
Both cartridges are suitable for a variety of hunting applications, but each excels in certain scenarios.
.338 Winchester Magnum
The 338 Winchester Magnum is a versatile choice for hunting a wide range of big game animals, including elk, moose, bear, and caribou. Its manageable recoil and adequate power make it a good all-around cartridge for hunting in various terrains, from forests to mountains. It’s a particularly good choice for hunters who prioritize accuracy and control over extreme long-range performance. [See also: Elk Hunting Tips]
.338 Remington Ultra Magnum (RUM)
The 338 RUM is best suited for hunting in open terrain where longer shots are common. It’s an excellent choice for hunting animals like sheep, goats, and elk in mountainous regions, as well as for hunting in vast plains where distances can be deceiving. Its flatter trajectory and higher energy retention make it a more forgiving cartridge at longer ranges. However, its heavier recoil may make it less suitable for hunters who are sensitive to recoil or who plan to take multiple shots in quick succession.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Cartridge
The choice between the 338 Winchester Magnum vs 338 RUM ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize manageable recoil, versatility, and a slightly lower ammunition cost, the 338 Winchester Magnum is a solid choice. If you prioritize maximum range, a flatter trajectory, and are willing to tolerate heavier recoil, the 338 RUM is the better option. Consider the type of game you’ll be hunting, the terrain you’ll be hunting in, and your own shooting abilities when making your decision. Thoroughly researching both cartridges and, if possible, testing them at the range will help you make an informed choice that suits your specific hunting needs.
Ultimately, both the 338 Winchester Magnum and the 338 RUM are capable cartridges for taking down large game. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses is the key to choosing the right tool for the job.
