Quick Answer
The weather can significantly impact the effectiveness of a .338 Federal on elk, particularly in terms of bullet expansion and penetration.
Weather Conditions and Bullet Expansion
Weather conditions such as temperature, humidity, and altitude can affect the expansion of the .338 Federal’s 210-grain Speer Spitzer bullet. For example, at extremely low temperatures (below 0°F), the bullet’s expansion may be reduced, increasing the risk of over-penetration. Conversely, high temperatures (above 90°F) can cause the bullet to expand too aggressively, potentially losing kinetic energy.
Wind and Bullet Penetration
Wind is a significant factor to consider when hunting elk with a .338 Federal. A strong crosswind can deflect the bullet, reducing its kinetic energy and increasing the risk of under-penetration. In such cases, it’s essential to compensate for the wind deflection by adjusting the rifle’s aim. A general rule of thumb is to adjust the aim by 1-2 MOA for every 10 mph of crosswind.
Altitude and Atmospheric Pressure
The .338 Federal’s performance can also be affected by altitude and atmospheric pressure. At high altitudes (above 8,000 ft), the air is thinner, which can cause the bullet to lose kinetic energy more quickly, potentially reducing its effectiveness. In such cases, using a heavier bullet or increasing the powder charge may be necessary to maintain adequate penetration.
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