Gents,
appreciate your comments on the above.I have booked a buff hunt in Tanzania and am happy with my new .416 Rem Mag for Buff then "plainsgame",probably 375-400gr @ 2400fps.Because I thought that the "big" .416 would not be ideal for longer ranges I revamped my old elk gun in 338 W Mag shooting ~ 225 gr @ 2700 fps.Also gave consideration to "unnecessary" damage?
I am now comparing the trajectories and question the advisability to take 2 rifles.
The above .416 will shoot ~ 8" low @250y if zeroed at 150y,it will be 12+" low @250y if zeroed at 100y.

The 338 zeroed at 200y will be 2" high at 125y and 8" low at 300y.

Maybe it comes down to distances to cover.It appears beyond
150-200y the 338 has a distinctive advantage.
200y isnt much for me to imagine to have to bridge,meaning - one is unable to get any closer without spooking the game.

Please share your experiences if you used 2 rifles on your hunt.I understand the disadvantages,mainly if you happen to have the wrong one in your hands that moment
thanks

sheephunter

Depends on what plains game is on the menu. I would think you would enjoy shooting a 338 over the 416 on zebra, kudu, impala, etc. simply because it's a bit more pleasant to shoot. I would also think that a 300 win mag or 7MM Remington mag would be even more pleasant. But if you don't already own one, I wouldn't go buy it.

I would, however, opt for taking a second gun. Two guns is about as easy to contend with as one is, in terms of traveling, check-ins, Customs forms, etc. And you have the advantage of having a backup if one goes somehow awry. Couldn't hunt buff with the 338, but you do have a backup on the other stuff. And if the second one is easier and more pleasant to shoot .... makes sense to me.

Now that you mention it H T,I dont own a 300 win mag or 7MM Remington mag ,But I do a 300 RUM.I didnt mention this little tool as I thought bigger bullets would be called for in Africa

sheephunter

I would vote for just about any hunting .30 caliber for the second gun. As mentioned, the 7mm Mag. would also be a good choice.

I hunted plainsgame in RSA w/ my .338-06 & your .338 would be even better. I think you may want to rethink your 150yd zero on your .416 for DG. Zero @ 100 is basically on @ 50, good DG range. You're still only 6"-7" low @ 200. I'm going back for buffalo this year w/ a .404 & that will be how I set her up. The .338 will make a better plainsgame rig, sighted @ 200-250yds, than your .416 (jmo).

Sheephunter,

I am taking two rifles to Zim in August one a 458 Lott for buf and a 338 with 225's and believe me it will rip up the inards with premium bullets.. You are paying trophy fees and you want damage and be able to bust bone...If you decide to take the Rum I would definately shoot 200grers in it the bulet would be long and very stable with the higher velocity...heavier bullets with not to much speed..That 416 with some Northfork bullet would be super for any game even buf..Hitting them right o the shoulder will send bone fragments thru heart and lungs what more can you ask for...
Take out the boiler and it is academic...

Mike