Is the .338 Federal a good choice for high-altitude elk hunting?

Ballistic Performance at High Altitude

The .338 Federal is a versatile cartridge that can deliver impressive kinetic energy at high altitudes. Its 200-grain bullet has a muzzle energy of 3,150 ft-lbs at sea level, but it drops to 2,670 ft-lbs at 10,000 feet. This is still sufficient to take down elk humanely, especially if the shot is made at a close to optimal range. For high-altitude hunting, look for loads with a bullet weight of 200-225 grains and a muzzle velocity of at least 2,600 ft/s to ensure sufficient kinetic energy.

Shot Placement and Distance

When hunting elk at high altitude, it’s essential to place your shot carefully to maximize the chances of a quick and humane kill. Aim for the heart or lungs, using a trajectory chart to compensate for the bullet’s drop at long ranges. In general, a 200-grain .338 Federal bullet will drop approximately 10-12 inches at 300 yards and 25-30 inches at 400 yards at 10,000 feet. Use a scope with a high-powered zoom (e.g., 12-40x) to accurately place your shot at long ranges.

Rifle and Ammunition Selection

To ensure optimal performance from the .338 Federal, choose a rifle with a short barrel length (24-26 inches) and a heavy barrel weight to reduce recoil. Consider using a high-quality, factory-loaded ammunition with a reputable brand and a consistent powder charge. Some popular .338 Federal loads for elk hunting include the Hornady 200-grain SST and the Federal Premium 225-grain Nosler Partition. Make sure to check local hunting regulations for any restrictions on cartridge types or bullet weights.