The 1/2" in COAL is the difference between SA and LA often much less than that. I have a 338 Federal and do like the round. Not a real long distance number, but I don't hunt where I need long distance. In the woods at 50 yards or so it works quite well. It is not that popular either, few new rifles if any are chambered for it now. I do not think it is a short magnum, not really anywhere close to the 338WM. It does not have the recoil either especially in a light weight woods rifle. Like the short fat ones it is a "niche" rifle.
