I've got a .338 AI in the works right now. The barrel, a 24", was given to me, so I ain't got a nickel in it. I don't want to open up the bolt face and fuss with feeding, so I won't go with a magnum. I reckon I'd get better speed from a 26" tube, but apart from the many nickels I'd have in it, it'd be a bit unwieldy. Pretty sure a bear won't be able to tell the difference...