If I was bound and determined to own a short 338 mag, I'd go with the Ruger.
I did some nosing around the Hogdon site for load data.
The .338 RCM looks to be quite anemic (top vel load):
225 GR. - HDY IB - BL-C(2) - 58.0gr - 2689 FPS - 61,500 PSI
Compared to the unimproved .338-06 (BLC-2 wasn't the best powder, but it was very close):
225 GR. SPR SPBT - BL-C(2) - 55.0gr - 2671 FPS - 62,900 PSI
I'm assuming both were tested in a 24" barrel...I have no idea how Hornady can claim 2850 FPS for its factory 225 gr. .338 RCM ammo...
At any rate, if I go short/fat it'll definitely be the .338 WSM, with around 65 gr. of powder capacity with the 225. I'm leaning more and more (back) towards the .338-06 AI though.
