338 Norma Magnum

[wadebrown]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

+1 for JLC Precision, I had him convert a standard 300 RUM Redding die to a 338 Edge bushing die. Nice work at a good price and the turnaround time was good.

wade

 

[HiCapMag]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Later</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What are your guys average MV for the 300gr (either SMK or Scenars)?

I am thinking that the 338NM is going to be my next barrel for SRS system.

Thanks </div></div>

About 2800 fps with the 300SMK.

 

[brian64x]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Alright, I finally had time to do a little bit of testing with VV N570 pushing a 300gr SMK outta my 26" Brux tube.
I weighed out all of my brass so its all the same (315gr) and then loaded up some 200gr SST's to fireform the brass. Once I fired the cases, I loaded them with a 300gr SMK and VV N570 powder and started testing.
I only loaded 3 rds of each starting @ 87gr

87gr-- 2591 av
88gr-- 2652
89gr-- 2716
90gr-- 2736
91gr-- 2802

No signs of pressure yet at 91gr (I was using a mic to measure the case head) bolt lift is normal and primers are good to go. I will load up a few more 91's and then go up in halfs until I see signs of pressure. Group sizes got smaller the faster I pushed the bullet but, I am not happy as of yet with the group sizes... more testing to come!!

 

[dougm58]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Thanks for the information Brian. I was able to go up to 92 grains without any issues, but didn't clock them.

 

[Fredo]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

VVN570, 300gr Scenar's.

3.735 OAL, Fed 215M primers in once fired Lapua neck sized.
DTA/SRS .338LM 26"

90 grains = 2,786 Avg.
92 grains = 2,851 Avg. this was .5 MOA
93 grains = 2,875 Avg.
94 grains = 2,913 Avg. crushing powder stack seating.

 

[dougm58]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Thanks all for the info on JLC Precision. Sending my die off to them. $45 including return shipping.

 

[dougm58]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Brunos has Norma brass according to their web site....$1.66 ea

 

[Cigarcop]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Can anyone thats been using the VV N570 offer up any starting and max points for the 250, 300 SMK's???

 

[Fredo]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

This is the new 8th Edition reloading guide, it has min and max suggested loads for some .338

http://www.lapua.com/fileadmin/user_upload/esitteet/VihtavuoriReloadingGuideEdition8.pdf

 

[Cigarcop]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fredo</div><div class="ubbcode-body">This is the new 8th Edition reloading guide, it has min and max suggested loads for some .338

http://www.lapua.com/fileadmin/user_upload/esitteet/VihtavuoriReloadingGuideEdition8.pdf </div></div>

Thanks Fredo I've got that but nothing specific for the Norma inside

 

[RWSGunsmithing]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

So any updates on the n570 yet?

 

[Bluejazz]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Fredo,
are you seating off the lands, or touching?
It seems your velocities are higher than normal, and you are running preety high pressures at 94gr as per quikload.

 

[C.K]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RWSGunsmithing</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So any updates on the n570 yet?</div></div>

93.5 grains in a 26"tube gets me 2915.

 

[novaman64]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: C.K</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RWSGunsmithing</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So any updates on the n570 yet?</div></div>

93.5 grains in a 26"tube gets me 2915. </div></div>

With a 300 grainer?

 

[RWSGunsmithing]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

That's gotta be 250's

 

[C.K]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Nope, 300grain scenars, 92.5 retumbo gets me to 2860, 92 RSM gets me to 2790. I wouldn't waste 570 on a 250gn bullet, Fredo's load is right on with the velocity range per charge weight. I worked up this load along side retumbo at the same time to see what the velocity gain was going to be. I also use quick loads but not as gospel, after working with Vit powders for a while you'll find out every batch is different. You get one that works(batch"lot") you order a shit load because the next "lot" might not.

 

[Bluejazz]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

I am a big fan of the 338 Norma, but you guys that are running them at 2850-2900 out of a 26" barrel in my opinion are way over pressure. That cartridge will get you 2750fps with Retumbo or RSM, I don't know about Vit N570, but should get you more.

 

[V-Ref]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: C.K</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RWSGunsmithing</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So any updates on the n570 yet?</div></div>

93.5 grains in a 26"tube gets me 2915. </div></div>

C.K.

That's quick.

Have you verified drop data at distance using this velocity?

Have you shot over a second chrono?

How many firings have your cases endured at these pressure levels?

 

[C.K]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

94.5 of 570 will expand the web on the norma brass, the 93.5 I loaded 4 times in the same case and the primers pockets are fine, the load indicates primer cratering take it for what it is I don't worry about cratering on the bigger stuff until I see other sings . the chrono is on, my main load is the RSM loading i gave out, 2800 is plenty fast with a 300.

 

[V-Ref]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

C.K.

Not attacking...just asking before looking at taking a plunge on that powder. Sticky extraction?

 

[737shark]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

29 inch barrel 90 grains ramshot magnum I'm getting 2860
With 300 grain scenars 53 moa out 1750 yards

 

[C.K]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: V-Ref</div><div class="ubbcode-body">C.K.

Not attacking...just asking before looking at taking a plunge on that powder. Sticky extraction?</div></div>

Didn't take that way,

On my gun with a 1.35 barrel dia 94.5 felt no different but the brass expanded as I measured every round every .2 grains until it did.

 

[V-Ref]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

CK and 737..thanks!

 

[novaman64]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: C.K</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nope, 300grain scenars, 92.5 retumbo gets me to 2860, 92 RSM gets me to 2790. I wouldn't waste 570 on a 250gn bullet, Fredo's load is right on with the velocity range per charge weight. I worked up this load along side retumbo at the same time to see what the velocity gain was going to be. I also use quick loads but not as gospel, after working with Vit powders for a while you'll find out every batch is different. You get one that works(batch"lot") you order a shit load because the next "lot" might not. </div></div>

Wow, I was debatting what 338 I wanted to build, I was thinking LM or Edge, but I wanna use it for huntg and would be semi carry and didnt want a 30" rifle, if I could get that kinda of velocity out of a 300 grain and a 26" barrel I think my mind is made up, time to start saving for a 338 Norma mag...

 

[USAS]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Anyone loading Bergers yet that has some data, specifically at an OAL of 3.6?
What is the variance in the OAL between the sierra's and the berger's when seating them with the same die configuration

Regards

 

[Møønlight]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

I feel like I read a book. I've read ALL 13 page's of this monstrosity. Bottom line, I made it through the first few page's and made a decision on my next build.

For those that want to track my build it's being put together by RW+Snyder Gunsmithing "A very popular Hide member here as well RWSGunmithing aka Robert" and came highly recommended for this build by some long member's of the Hide here.

Here are the spec's for this build RW+S Gunsmithing will be putting together for this build along with extra I have for her.

<span style="font-weight: bold">Stock:</span> Manner's T4A
<span style="font-weight: bold">Action:</span> Surgeon 581 XL repeater
<span style="font-weight: bold">Barrel:</span> Brux #17 w/ straight flute
<span style="font-weight: bold">Bottom:</span> RAD Badger w/ amidextrous mag release
<span style="font-weight: bold">Brake:</span> Badger
<span style="font-weight: bold">Knob:</span> Surgeon
<span style="font-weight: bold">Rings:</span> McMillan
<span style="font-weight: bold">Scope:</span> Heritage 5-25x56 XR

Has anyone done any serious testing yet and came up with a determination on the best loads for all the caliber's such as the 250 and 300 Gn?

Cheers!
MS

 

[pc3]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

MS,

I have at this point settled on 90gr of retumbo behind the 300 smk, seated to run through standard AI mags.....mild load in most rifles I would think, this load averages 2738 from my 28" barrel. I want to shoot game with mine so may not be as fussy as some with testing loads.

I will be doing more testing with my .338 Norma in the coming couple of weeks.

 

[Møønlight]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pc3</div><div class="ubbcode-body">MS,

I have at this point settled on 90gr of retumbo behind the 300 smk, seated to run through standard AI mags.....mild load in most rifles I would think, this load averages 2738 from my 28" barrel. I want to shoot game with mine so may not be as fussy as some with testing loads.

I will be doing more testing with my .338 Norma in the coming couple of weeks. </div></div>

Music to my ears. Let me know how the testing comes along. I'm in no rush but i'm really interested in what load's people are using.

Cheers,
MS

 

[The Animal]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Brian W</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Alright, I finally had time to do a little bit of testing with VV N570 pushing a 300gr SMK outta my 26" Brux tube.
I weighed out all of my brass so its all the same (315gr) and then loaded up some 200gr SST's to fireform the brass. Once I fired the cases, I loaded them with a 300gr SMK and VV N570 powder and started testing.
I only loaded 3 rds of each starting @ 87gr

87gr-- 2591 av
88gr-- 2652
89gr-- 2716
90gr-- 2736
91gr-- 2802

No signs of pressure yet at 91gr (I was using a mic to measure the case head) bolt lift is normal and primers are good to go. I will load up a few more 91's and then go up in halfs until I see signs of pressure. Group sizes got smaller the faster I pushed the bullet but, I am not happy as of yet with the group sizes... more testing to come!! </div></div>

Your data seems to be spot on with 91gr out of a Bartlein 5r (1:9.3 twist) 26 inch tube! ES was less than 10 fps for three test loads through the crony. Excellent accuracy as well.

 

[brian64x]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Anybody do any testing with the Hornady 285 yet. If so what powder/load did ya end up with? I have had 500 of these bullets for awhile now but have not had the time to do any testing...

 

[Sunstroke338]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

I did some testing with the Hornady 285s a few weeks ago. The best results were with 91.5 grains of Ramshot Magnum. It grouped well at 200 yards (.85 MOA), with an average muzzle velocity of 2823 fps. I haven't tried Reloader 22, Reloader 25, or VV 570 with these bullets yet.

I used an Elesio RTM, with a Pierce action and a 28" Krieger barrel.

 

[Chandalar]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Amazing! Good shooting Mike!

 

[Donald]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

You guys are doing a good job of talking me into a 338 norma, a 26 inch barrel would be perfect for the hunting rig and i've got plenty of N570 which seems to be the magic powder to fire up this bad girl.

 

[skinney_7]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: USAS</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Anyone loading Bergers yet that has some data, specifically at an OAL of 3.6?
What is the variance in the OAL between the sierra's and the berger's when seating them with the same die configuration

Regards </div></div>
300 otm's @ 2850, OAL 3.634 just mag length, with 86grns of RL22... don't try that for a starting load in your rifle, thats the high end for the RL22... i will be testing the N570 this week, should have some awesome HD video to put up for you guys soon.

 

[Bluejazz]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

So, are there any factory rifles out yet in this caliber?

 

[gyr]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

I think someone posted that Sako was thinking about it.

 

[Bluejazz]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

I was hoping someone would have had one out by now if this is such a popular caliber.

 

[FinnCollector]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Has anyone seen the .375 version yet?

 

[Kiwi Greg]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Im just doing load development with my new big 338 Norma.
Barnard P-Chey action, big Lija 1-10 32" long, XLR HD Chassis, my T3 Terminator brake.
I'm using Retumbo, 215, Gen IIs & getting just over 3000, but it doesn't want to go much faster so I will back it off abit.

So far accuracy is as I have come to expect from the Normas

I had the barrel so I thought why not.

 

[ELR researcher]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Greg:

I'm assuming the oversize-for-cartidge action is simply what you had available. If not, why a CT sized action for a "short"-338-LM-sized cartridge?

I ask because I'm looking at getting a second barrel (for a current 338 LM repeater rig) that is in 338 NM - because it gives me so many more projectile options without running out of mag length.

Thanks.

 

[Kiwi Greg]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ELR Researcher</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Greg:

I'm assuming the oversize-for-cartidge action is simply what you had available. If not, why a CT sized action for a "short"-338-LM-sized cartridge?

I ask because I'm looking at getting a second barrel (for a current 338 LM repeater rig) that is in 338 NM - because it gives me so many more projectile options without running out of mag length.

Thanks. </div></div>

I'm in the process of building three identical rigs to shoot LR steel etc.
338 Norma, 375 Lil'Terminator & 375 CTimp.
I have the first two finished & I'm only waiting on the Bartlein barrel for the big 375...very frustrating was supposed to be here last X-mas......
I usually shoot a number of rifles at out fun/informal steel shoots to give each rifle a chance to cool down.
I figured if I had identical rigs it would be much easier to be consistant.
Obviously I can "go mad" with the Norma but not so much with the big 375 before they heat up & I wear them out, not to mention cost.
I could have used a Barnard PL but the P-Chey isn't much dearer & with always be worth more.

 

[Alan Nadeau]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

You say you know you're not supposed to sell here but it looks like your selling.

 

[excaliber]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

AlanN, your supposed to have 100 posts to be able to sell on here. Rules.

 

[Alan Nadeau]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Yes, I know that. At this point I'm not trying to sell anything. Since I have no way find out whether this brass is going to prove to be reloadable I a hoping someone will want to try it, gratis. If it works out that I do have a saleable product I will pay for the priviledge of using the for sale section.

 

[264shooter]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

If your looking for someone to test it out, I will do that for you since I am already shooting and loading the 338 Norma.

 

[Savage 212]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Just shot my personal best today, 2035 yards with my custom built Vestals Rifles 338 Norma Mag! Blue printed Mod 700 action, converted from right to left hand Bell & Carlson stock, 300g 2nd gen Bergers, behind 86.5g Retumbo, for a vel of 2800fps, NightForce 5.5x22x50, with a Ken Ferrell 60 MOA Base! Gun is very consistant, and a pleasure to shoot! Thanks Rob for a dream rifle , and a awesome day of shooting with friends! Try Vestal's Long Range Specialist, for your dream build! Pics to follow!

 

[skinney_7]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

here is a 5" group @ 1116yds with my 338NM build, the first round was a blown wind call and I only had 5 rounds loaded, so we made the final 4 count.

 

[cowboywhorses]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

I also like the Norma for the same reason. It has the chance to load more different rounds in the repeater platform. With the 338 LM can be loaded faster but has less choices for repeater platforms. You run in to the mag problem .

But you can build any thing you want on a custom gun. That whats makes this fun ! !

Good luck Iceman on your choices. Pm me if you want to talk.

As far as brass Midway has some I also got some from the members on the hide.

Dies I have Foster , but like Redding neck bushing type. Also I have a set from Whidden Gunworks for my next build. In a 338 Norma improved 30 degree.

Pics of my short barrel hammmer from RWS gunsmithing in 338 Norma

 

[cowboywhorses]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Iceman if you are looking for a gun KYS 338 has one in the gun section. It is ready to go with ammo.

 

[mnhntr]

Re: 338 Norma Magnum

Can this cartridge be run in a standard Savage 110 action?