OlongJohnson, the problem with your original rational is that it's pretty sound to begin with. That is, a 7 mag and 375 Ruger has covered a lot of ground. On the otherhand, same could be questioned for any cartridge in between the two, not just the 338. So, you shouldn't be trying to rationalizing your way out of another rifle
. If you put the rifle together right in the first place, you won't have to worry about carrying a 9lbs 338. For example,a kimber Montana or a Winchester 70 can start you out light. I got an Ultimate Shadow and bare with its 26" barrel weighs 7 1/4 lbs. Chop 2-4" off that barrel and drop it in any number of lightweight stocks and you'll be cook'n with town gas
. Thoughtfully put together you might find you are taking out your 338 more than your 375. I find the 338s recoil stiff but not prohibitive in ordinary shooting positions.
Get a 338 wm.
