WB
Something on .338 bullets, jackets harder than a harlot's
Tuesday, December 03, 2019, 08:15

heart. I'd really consider the game and impact velocity at distance. Accubonds (etc) or other premium bullets may not expand much under 2000 fps. You know they are made for .338 Win., .338-378 Wby., .338 Lapua etc. first and foremost in mind. .338 Federal (.338-08) at minimum, which will do amazingly well for it's size.

Actually cheaper, "old tech" bullets of a lighter weight will likely do best in handguns. That is a good thing. The classic Nosler Partition is known for it's soft nose and tough back end. I like the Speer 200 gr. SP for lighter game. It's comparatively inexpensive too. The Grand Slam would be a bit tough to expand much at lower velocities, but boy would it penetrate. The 8mm bullets have much thinner jackets and will expand easier at handgun velocities. The old 8mm vs .338 GNR controversy. I was in the .338 camp. Both are great.

We shot Blackbucks with the .338 GNR using a 200 gr. Hornady at 2600 fps. Shots were 100 and 140 yds. The bullets acted almost like a FMJ. Thankfully they are big to begin with and penetrated like through hot butter. The little 90 lb. critters had nothing to stop them. It was harrowing to think how a wounded $2500 animal could easily run off and you still had to pay for it or spend another $500+ to "try" (with dogs) and find it. But the excitement and success made it all a most memorable experience. One of my favorites.

Doug is actually holding the horn in place. It was broken off in a fight and he got it for 1/2 price. Made the 2nd most incredible shot I've seen him do in the field, using the .338 GNR Encore handgun. *1st. was a hog in the eye, at night, one handed 35 yds., using a .475 LB Reeder custom. We have really had some good times.