I have owned 338-06's in 700, 7600, VZ 24 mauser, and springfield actions.
Currently own three on Model 70 classic actions.
Hunting Rifle with 3# Shilen in a McMillan Edge
Suppressed rifle with #4 Shilen in a B&C stock
Safari rifle with a #3 Shilen, Dakota Arms sights, and Supergrade stock. Just about finished.
All with 1:9 twist.
I have shot bullet weights from 160 to 275. Have come to prefer 200-210gr bullets.
I have had the best results with Varget powder.
Have shot cottontails, coyotes, antelope, deer, Black bears, and elk with them.
Bullets used on animals have been:
180gr Accubond
200 gr Accubond, Ballistic Silvertip, and Hornady SP (disc)
210gr TSX and Partition
Right now I have two go to loads for the top two rifles. The Ballistic silvertip running 2795 and the a 210gr TTSX running 2815. Also had a 200gr Accubond load but just did not see the performance difference on the Black Bears we shot in SE Alaska in June.
Is it more than a 30-06 with 200gr bullets? Yes, exactly 0.03 inches more.
Is it better? I think so, but not enough to get panties in a wad over.
I like the cartridge and the rifles. I simply would not hesitate to use one on anything, with the exception of probably elephant and rhino. From what I have seen with a 210gr mono, I cannot imagine needing a 250gr bullet.
I may mess around with some 225gr monos in the Safari rifle, but the plan is to use 210gr T/TSX and regulate the sights with that load.
I have had no issues necking Win and Rem 30-06 brass up, and also have a bunch of Norma properly head stamped brass.
