Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

S

scarpydooooo

Private
Minuteman
Oct 5, 2010
36
0
41
eureka, C a
#1
I just purchased a 98B and i dont know crap about it. I got everything i need to reload but dont know exactly what grain to use ect...

I was hoping somebody in the forum might have experience with this rifle and maybe even handloaded for it. I will be using the rifle for long range target practice on my ranch. I have 2,000 yards marked and everything. I dont need to shoot that far, but i can if the rifle will allow me.


any advice everyone has would be great. I am a complete beginner, and yes i do realize i started off with a rifle a little out of my league.

thanks and nice to meet everyone!!
 
#3
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

only thing i have ever shot is my sig 516 that i bought a week ago lol its .223 though
Optics i bought a nightforce 5.5-22 X 56. the rifle was reccommended and so was the scope 7k for both. I dont have any ammunition yet. but i purchased a rock chucker reloading kit. i just need to buy dies and some primers and brass and powder....

i really dont know much
 
#4
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

First off, welcome.

Second thing: This link will be your best friend here. It can help you find just about anything:

Sniper's Hide custom google search

Third thing: I would start by going to the reloading section and reading through all the stickies on the reloading process. It'll get you started the right way, and there is also reloading data in the reloading depot. Always remember to start about 10% low on powder when working up a load.

You definitely dove right into long range shooting. The .338 Lapua is expensive to shoot and the recoil can be wearying sometimes. You might want to consider selling it and starting with something more common and easier to learn on, like a .308 or .223 bolt rifle.

At this point reading and the search function are your best bets. Good luck, and have fun with it.
 
#6
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

i know a guy who reloads, but nt this round. he doesnt know much about this round except that its for long distance. i bought a book on reloading and it has definatly helped. I am curious though about the distance they say this rifle has... effective 2700 yards? it seems like 1000 yards to far from what i read. Has anyone in the forum reloaded the .338 lapua? and tested different grains?
 
#7
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: humboldtcounty</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am curious though about the distance they say this rifle has... effective 2700 yards? it seems like 1000 yards to far from what i read. </div></div>

The current world record longest confirmed kill by a sniper is 2,700 yards. Some people believe that and some don't. Given the conditions the shot happened in, the bullet was subsonic for 700 yards give or take. The generally accepted maximum effective range for the .338 Lapua is around 1800 yards. The bullet becomes transonic at distances farther than that, which is almost always bad news for accuracy. It depends on load, atmospheric conditions, shooter capability, and other things of that nature.

Someone else will hopefully help out here for any specific reloading tips for the .338. You can start here if you want to: .338 LM load data
 
#8
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

A lot of people have reloaded this round. Go to the reloading forum and start reading http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=13&page=1 There's much information there. Be very careful when using data posted on the internet. Some of the loads an individual develops for his/her rifle may be well over the safe published maximum and may be way too high for your rifle. What reloading book did you buy? Sierra, who makes some very good bullets for the .338, publishes a very good reloading manual and they have live tech support as well.
 
#10
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Welcome to the Hide. 338LM is an expensive cartridge to dive in from shooting a 223 rifle. There is nothing wrong with it, as long as your wallet permits. Even with reloading, shooting it is not cheap. Having said that, selling is not really an option for you I taken. It's good that you have started to acquire reloading components for it. My suggestion for you is, FWIW, buy several boxes of the manufactured ammo (Mike at Southwest Ammo here on the hid has very decent price) Shoot it to get a feel for the rifle and its capability. Set aside a decent budget to get a 308 and a decent scope (may be able to find one in the for sale section for a good price) and shoot the hell out of the barrel to get comfortable with shooting long range. Believe me, it's cheaper to waste 308 ammo on learning how to read the wind and learning your dope than to do the samething with a 338LM whether you reload or not. Please don't be offended since I don't know your experience in long range shooting. That would be the first thing I do. Once you are comfortable shooting up to 1000 yards then switching to the 338LM is going to be fun. Otherwise, it's just like burning your money. I am sure that you are not going to learn how to drive manual transmission on a Ferrari.

In terms of the capable range of the 338LM, it's a subject to debate. Yes, the cartridge is intended for target up to a mile give and take. I have shot it up to about 2000 yards. But even here in the desert, at 2000 yards, the bullet goes through a transonic zone and its accuracy can be quite unpredictable. Good luck.
 
#11
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Thank you.

I have a Rem 700 in 30. 06 and i can learn with that i assume. I have a good scope on it so i think it will get to 700 yards fairly easy.

I have money and i dont want to get rid of my 98B i love the way it looks and the more i read about the round the more i want to eventually learn how to shoot it very well. One other reason i got the 98B is the fact the my uncles friend said he has 1000 .338 lapua brass he cant use because he sold his rifle. that right there is huge savings for me.. still though i agree that its a waste to use to learn techniques.

I wish somebody in this foum lived in the same area as me and was extremely knowledgable. I would love to go to our range and practice.

as far as the lapua range, i saw some youtube thing were they hit a dong at 2700 yards. 1500 is plenty more than i would ever need to shot at let alone 2000 or 2700 thats ridiculous when i think about it.
 
#12
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

DesertHK gave you good advise. If your 30-06 is a regular weight sporter such as a BDL, it's probably going to recoil harder than your 98B and be counter-productive to learning. The accuracy of a sporter weight barrel heating up wont help either. If you're a complete beginner, sign up for the online training. Money well spent. Also, get a good accurate .22 rimfire such as a Savage, put a decent optic on it, and learn the fundamentals without the distraction of recoil and muzzle blast. Many experienced shooters build .22 trainers just for that purpose.
 
#13
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

wow, your tag says it all "go big or go home". I have always had the Dive right in attitude but not the wallet to support it. seriously tho I have been shooting gas guns for the past ten years and last year bought my first bolt gun (308) There is a learning curve. If you have the funds I would recommend taking a class or two in both shooting technique and reloading and using the online classes to pick up good habits. Oh BTW i am jealous, that system is on my dream list.
 
#15
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Holy fucking shit...

You ate going to hate that rifle, not because its a bad rifle, but because you have no basis for knowin how to use it.

If you want to keep loving it, shelf it for at least a year. Buy a 22 and a 308 and learn.

If you start shooting it now, you will hate it, you will think it is heavey, loud, punishing and you wont be able to hit shit.

If you want to learn using the 98B, please report back in a year...

Good luck whichever way you go.
 
#17
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Lill-rambo</div><div class="ubbcode-body">^ Gotta be one of the most stupid answer I have read in this thread...

</div></div>

Perhaps, time will tell.

I have seen people start out with less (300 WM, for example) and thinking they hate long range shooting...for the reasons stated earlier.

Oh, and don't forget expencive. $5.00 a miss is a tough pill to swallow. Long range shooting is a learning process, I could not personally go through that process again with such a monster.

To be clear, I have shot a 98B and enjoyed it alot...but I have just enough experience to have been mariginally effective.
 
#18
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Thanks again for all the replies. I agree 100% ith everyone. I think I will get a .22 or .223 and learn how to shoot, im a complete bigineer and im sure my AR in .223 isnt going to help me learn much or maybe it will idk. reloading the .338 seems to be pretty cheap for me because i have access to 1000 brand new shells. I can see me allready being extremely pissed when i miss 500 times in a row and not kno why. I could possibly hunt with itsince its not so heavy ( compared to other bigger caliber rifles).

We dont have any classes were i live because its a white trash hick town and everyone grows weed.

So one last time............ everyne recommends a .22 and a 308 to learn on? or will a .223 work just as good as a /22?
For optics to learn on, what do you guys think would be best since i will eventually be using a nightforce?

thanks again..
smile.gif
 
#19
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

I'd advise staying away from reloads until your warranty expires. I take delivery of my 98B this week. From what I've been able to gather it seems that 300gr is a very good weight for distance. What barrel length did you get?
 
#20
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

I will definatly maybe put like 20 rounds thru it then shelve it and learn on a smaller rifle. But i cant get it and instantly wait another year just cant do it. Just 20 and then shelf. And i will definatly let you all see and laugh your asses off at my groups. i think ill try 500 yards and se if i can even hit that. my groups will probably be in a redwood tree about 30 feet left ha ha ha
 
#21
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

300gr is a very good weight for distance. What barrel length did you get?



I got the 27" barrel. Is that good or bad?? I totally agree on the warranty thing, never thought of that! good call. What barrel lenght did you get? i owe 700 on my 98B then i can pick it up. Scope kinda set me back for a couple weeks.
 
#23
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

"Why don't you just put your NF scope in some good rings and move it to whatever you buy? "

Very true fngmike. wuld it work on a .223 or .22 rifle? the power is 8-32 X 56 I was told that i could get a 5 - 22 X 56 one at my local dealer and he said he would trade it if its to much power for me. is a 22 power enough to go long long range? And is 8 power too much for like 100 yard shots?
 
#24
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

A 308 or 223 will help you lean the basics and both will still reach 1,000 yards easily.

Since you I've your own land you an shoot these all you want for practice.

I'm jelous of that 98b though! Wish I had a place to stretch one out.
 
#25
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

.223 will go 1000? i didnt think that was possible. i think im going to get a .308 and use the 30.06 i allready have. put the nightforce in the 308 and learn up to 1000 yards and when im perfect when it comes to 1,000 yards ill take the freakin 98 down. Thats the only way i can muster enugh motivation to shoot a million rounds in .308 when i have the .338 in the safe. You guys are all welcome to go shoot up on my ranch if your ever in the area. Could even shoot the 98B. Im serious.
 
#29
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Something you might consider doing, is paying for a couple days of private training, or group class training if you prefer. Rifles Only, TacPro and lots of other places offer some good classes. (There are probably some places closer to you).

There is nothing wrong with shooting your 338 even at close distances (100 yards to 200 yards) for the fun of it to enjoy your new rifle and slowly push out to 300 and 500 and beyond. But for serious training and practice, like everyone said, you'll want to train on something similar to a .308
 
#30
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

I live in eureka california. there is absolutely no classes withing 250 miles, not even private ones. This area sucks!!! No ranges at all except a crappy on thats pen like once a week and is 300 yards. I have to drive over an hour to go to my ranch to shoot. i plan on moving to nevada soon.
 
#31
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

I Picked up a 98B with a NF 5.5-22x w/ Npr-1 reticle this summer and so far have broke in the barrel, and zeroed it in at 200 yards. I have only shot black hill's 250gr sierra matchkings out of it and at 200 hundred yards it was shooting sub moa groups.
 
#32
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Nice! finally someone that has one. Havnt tried the .30 grain yet, i hear they are great.

Sub is a good sign. What would you compare the recoil to?

Also do you have the 20" or 27" thanks
 
#33
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Your not that far from the Sacramento area..Hook up with some of the folks from the Northern California Precision rifle club...They are on the web. Range up there goes to 1000. They also put on a beginner long range shooting clinic once or twice a year. Good luck
 
#35
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Reloading Data that has worked great for me using the same combo -

1. VihtaVuori N570 - 88.7 Grains of powder
2. Lapua Scenar HPBT 250 Grain Projectiles
3. Lapua Brass
4. Federal Gold Large Magnum Rifle Primers (Using the non-magnum primers will result in misfires using large grain slow burning powders)

Great choice on the purchase, those saying that it is heavy and harsh to shoot obviously have not shot one, the 98B has less recoil shooting standard loads than my .308 without a break..

The 98B has an excellent adjustable trigger and is a pleasure to shoot..

Just make sure you get the loads right, it's a big round and you don't want to go experimenting without having some knowledge of reloading principals..

The best way is to speak to experienced reloaders and if possible some hands on time reloading with them..

PM me if you require anything specific..
 
#36
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Thanks 98B guy. Good to know the recil isn't so bad. I have a crap load of lapua brass and was going to buy some federal 215 primers. I will definatly get a magnum primer because it makes since to me. I was going to load most of my loads with.........


1. Viht N165 92.4 G 2900 velocity 4669 ft. lbs.
2. #2650 250 G HPBT matchking
3. lapua brass
4. Was going to use federal 215

Id federal 215 okay??


what is better for accuracy and distance? The 250 grain scenar lack base bullet or the 300 grain scenar bullet? (new) i hear the 300 grain is awsome but has anyone tried it? thanks

Is this load okay? have to tried something similar? thanks again for responses!
smile.gif
 
#37
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

Has anyone shot a 98B 1600 to 2000 yards??

I just got a call frm my buddy here in the mountains and he said he has a 1600 and a 2000 yard mark on his property. I have no chance of hitting the freakin dummy but if i was to try. what load is best for that distance?

I kinda asked a similar question earlier and i was going to just load the load stated earlier but i want to make sure I can reach these points with my load. thanks
 
#38
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: humboldtcounty</div><div class="ubbcode-body">they hit a dong at 2700 yards.</div></div>

Damn, that sounds painful.
 
#40
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

The 300 Grain projectiles are better for the longer ranges..

I found that the Sierra Matchkings were a little to long in their taper / profile when seating at their optimum OAL, they would not fit into the magazines, you can seat them a little deeper but I like to get the perfect OAL..

If your ok with loose / single loading, then it won't be an issue..
 
#41
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BARRETT98B</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The 300 Grain projectiles are better for the longer ranges..

I found that the Sierra Matchkings were a little to long in their taper / profile when seating at their optimum OAL, they would not fit into the magazines, you can seat them a little deeper but I like to get the perfect OAL..

If your ok with loose / single loading, then it won't be an issue.. </div></div>
Have you tried any of the available factory loads and what are your thoughts on them? Remington? Lapua? HSM?
 
#42
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: humboldtcounty</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I got the 27" barrel. Is that good or bad?? I totally agree on the warranty thing, never thought of that! good call. What barrel lenght did you get? i owe 700 on my 98B then i can pick it up. Scope kinda set me back for a couple weeks. </div></div>
27" is better for long range and is what I got. I'll be using the USO off my SASS temporarily but have a second USO on the way.
 
#43
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

I have and shoot both the 20" and 27".
The worst shooting factory ammo is Remington and HSM.
The groups were huge from both guns.
Hornady 250 shoots very well and so does the Lapua 250 Mira.
The Lapua has a slight edge on the Hornady, probably .125 moa better.

Here is a new load that a customer sent me and it shot .649 at 631 yards from a 27" 98B.

Barnes 225 TTSX
89.3 grains Retumbo

Not many posts on lower grain bullets but this one surely works.

Thanks, Lin
 
#44
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

nice info thanks guys.

Does the Lapua 300 grain scenar come in only hollow point from lapua?????

Im trying to find lapuas 300 grain to purchase then if i like it i will load it. I just ordered a box of lapuas 250 grain lock base which i heard was the best for accuracy.....is that true? Thanks a lot, im leaning twards 300 grain from what everyone is telling and because what i want to do with the rifle. :)))))


here is the link o got the ammo...


http://www.midwayusa.com/viewproduct/?pr...isting-_-897568
 
#47
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

27” 98 here sending the 300gr Lapua down range, works well for me I haven’t done much past a 1000 but it’s very consistent at the range
 
#50
Re: Barrett 98B .338 Lapua help

I was able to procure some Fed 215M match primers recently... I think from Midsouth Shooters Supply... maybe it was Midway. Either way, the match primers for 210 and 215 are hard to come by. When they come up, buy several thousand.

I have Rem 700 in both 308 and 338LM. I agree with some of the advice on learning to shoot with 308 (skip 22) from someone who is trained to teach. I am in SF Bay area and was lucky to have someone teach a class in precision long range rifle. I can't recommend that enough... I had no idea how to actually shoot before taking that weekend class. You should drive down sometime and take it.

The other thing you'll immediately discover with 308 and 338LM is you need ranges that go out to 1000 yards with plenty of armored steel targets. The local 100 yard range gets boring very fast. I have to drive 3 hours for mine which I am more than happy to do.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

10.5stang
SOLD Barrett 98B 20” 338 LM added trades
Replies
1
Views
403
10.5stang
10.5stang
V
Advice on Cartridge and Rifle (and a lot of other stuff) for High Accuracy Bolt Action Rifle
Replies
21
Views
517
Dead Eye Dick
Dead Eye Dick
Werk125
SOLD 338 Lapua - Stiller Action, Bartlein Barrel, McMillan Stock
Replies
2
Views
330
Werk125
Werk125
surgeon260
338 Lapua AI Build Advice
Replies
1
Views
432
jbuck88
jbuck88
A
338 Lapua Ackley Improved questions and request for load data
Replies
9
Views
841
CaseFinder
CaseFinder
Top Bottom
Back
Home
Forums
Merch
Alerts