What is .338 norma magnum?

The .338 Norma Magnum is a relatively recent cartridge developed by Norma Precision in 2008 and officially standardized by SAAMI in 2009. It has quickly gained popularity, particularly in the long-range shooting community and among military and law enforcement snipers.

• Design and Ballistics: The .338 Norma Magnum is designed to offer improved performance over the .300 Winchester Magnum while fitting into actions shorter than the .338 Lapua Magnum. It uses a shorter, wider case than the .338 Lapua, allowing for more efficient powder combustion and potentially improved accuracy. The cartridge is known for its flat trajectory and excellent energy retention at extended ranges. Projectiles typically range from 250 to 300 grains, offering impressive ballistic coefficients. More information about ballistics is available.

• Applications: This cartridge excels in extreme long-range shooting, generally considered distances beyond 1000 meters (approximately 1094 yards). Its effectiveness as a sniper cartridge is a major factor in its acceptance by special forces and law enforcement. It's capable of delivering accurate and powerful shots at distances that many other cartridges struggle to reach, also making it suitable for long%20range%20shooting.

• Rifles and Availability: Several manufacturers produce rifles chambered in .338 Norma Magnum, including custom rifle builders and major firearm companies. Ammunition availability has generally increased as the cartridge's popularity has grown. While not as ubiquitous as some more common cartridges, .338 Norma Magnum ammunition is generally available through retailers specializing in precision shooting and hunting supplies. Consider exploring rifle%20manufacturers.

• Comparison to .338 Lapua Magnum: While both cartridges shoot similar bullets, the .338 Norma Magnum offers some advantages. It can often be chambered in shorter, lighter rifles. Some argue it offers enhanced accuracy potential due to its case design. The .338 Lapua Magnum remains a powerful and well-established cartridge, and has advantages of it's own, notably the widespread availability of components and factory ammunition. Both the .338%20Norma%20Magnum and .338%20Lapua%20Magnum are excellent choices.