Quick Answer
The .375 H&H Magnum is a classic choice for dangerous game hunting, offering a moderate recoil and sufficient stopping power, while the .338 Lapua Magnum is a versatile, long-range cartridge suitable for a variety of hunting applications, including larger African game. Performance differences lie in their ballistic profiles, bullet design, and effective range. The .375 H&H excels at closer, high-impact hunting.
Ballistic Performance
The .375 H&H Magnum has a slightly lower muzzle velocity (around 2,300 ft/s) compared to the .338 Lapua (approximately 2,650 ft/s). However, its heavier bullets (300-350 gr) provide more kinetic energy and a flatter trajectory at closer ranges. In contrast, the .338 Lapua is effective at longer ranges due to its higher velocity and lighter bullets (250-300 gr), making it suitable for hunting larger African game at 1,000 yards or more.
Effective Range and Hunting Applications
For hunting larger African game at close to medium ranges (up to 300 yards), the .375 H&H Magnum is an ideal choice. Its heavy bullets and flat trajectory ensure a quick and humane kill. In contrast, the .338 Lapua Magnum excels at longer ranges (500-1,000 yards), making it a popular choice for hunting larger game such as Cape buffalo, elephant, or hippopotamus in more open terrain.
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