Quick Answer
The .338 Federal can be an adequate choice for mountain hunting elk, but it depends on several factors such as the hunter's skill level, rifle accuracy, and bullet selection. With a suitable bullet and proper shot placement, it can be effective, but it may not offer the same level of kinetic energy as larger cartridges like the .338 Winchester Magnum.
Ballistics Considerations
The .338 Federal is a necked-down version of the .338 Winchester Magnum, with a case length of 2.1 inches and a muzzle velocity of around 2,850 feet per second. For elk hunting, a bullet with a sectional density of at least 0.25 and a velocity of 2,500 feet per second or higher is recommended. A good example is the 210-grain Nosler Partition, which achieves a muzzle velocity of around 2,720 feet per second and delivers 2,300 feet-pounds of kinetic energy.
Hunting Techniques
To effectively hunt elk with the .338 Federal, hunters should focus on making clean, high-shoulder shots. At close ranges (less than 200 yards), the bullet should penetrate the vitals and deliver massive damage. However, at longer ranges, the bullet may not have enough kinetic energy to penetrate the elk’s dense shoulder and chest, potentially resulting in a non-lethal shot. To mitigate this risk, hunters can use a spotting scope to estimate distances and engage elk at closer ranges.
Rifle and Scope Requirements
To maximize the effectiveness of the .338 Federal for elk hunting, hunters should use a high-quality rifle with a accurate scope. A rifle with a minimum of 1 MOA accuracy (one inch at 100 yards) is recommended. A good scope should have a 3-9x or 4-12x magnification range, a 40mm or larger objective lens, and a rugged design that can withstand the rigors of mountain hunting.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.