.338 Lapua vs .338 Norma

H

hhunter318

New member
Does anyone have enough experience with both of these cartridges to give some input as far as ballistics, affordability, and any other aspect go? The Norma looked like a cool alternative.
 
If you want affordable, the 338 RUM is the way to go. Personally, I went with the slightly larger capacity 338 Edge, which is the 300 RUM necked up to 338. I can get good quality brass for about half the price of 338 Lapua, and the rebated rim lets me use a standard magnum bolt face in my ZKK 602.
 
If you are going to use it to shoot critters, the 338 Win Mag will work just as well and the ammo is readily available. Brass is a lot cheaper too.
 
No offense to anyone, but scratch affordability. I should have never included that. I know the 338 RUM and EDGE can do the same and more than the Lapua, but I'm really just interested in the performance between the Lapua and the Norma. Sorry for not being clear.
 
Depending on the brass price, affordability might be the main difference. The 338 Norma will fit into a standard long action like the Rem 700 etc. The 338 LM is usually chambered into .50 system due to the length, with corresponding price increase. Ballistics wise, you can probably squeeze a tiny bit more from the LM, but quite frankly, once you start pouring 100 gr+ of powder into a case 5% more doesn't make all that much difference.
 
Performance of the two is nearly identical. The 338 Norma is slightly shorter but fatter, case capacity is essentially identical. The biggest advantage of the Norma case is availability, and the Lapua has the takticool factor. They both go bang, both launch a heavy bullet at the same speed, go for whichever one floats your boat.
 
Thanks. I just heard that the Norma was doing the same with less, which always seems like a plus to me. I have too much going on for a new build at the moment, but dreaming and researching for the next one is always fun.
 
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