I just got back from the range and found an interesting combo that takes the 338 Fed up a notch.

I used Alliant 2000MR and the 225 Deepcurl.

I worked from 50 grains to 52 grains and fired at least 3 from each. No pressure signs for any of the loads.

50- avg 2480
51- avg 2512
52- avg 2538

Shocking that you can get close to 2550 Fps with a bonded bullet that has a .491 BC and costs as little as a hot cor. I was really shocked.

I also tested some other loads that I thought were faster.

200 Hot Cor- 52 gr 200MR- 2550 fps vs. Alliant's published 2725.

200 Hot Cor- 48 grains of R15, just under 2500 fps. I thought it was closer to 2600 based on Quick Load.

All the velocities were from a 22" barrel. I also sighted in my new Featherweight. I need to do some load development there but it looks promising.

The .338 Federal is still on my I would buy list. Just not on the short list. Saw a used Kimber Montana at Gander I would liked to have had but at close to $900 for a well used rifle I didn't see it happening.

Scott:

That is excellent! Sounds like 2000 MR will be the go to powder for heavy bullets in the .338 Federal. I shoot a .338 RCM and you are nipping at my heels. I am getting 2619 FPS with a 225 Hornady out of a 20 inch barrel. It's amazing what these little cartridges will do with the right powder. I am using Ramshot Big Game.