I just had a revelation that this might be a cool round. Maybe even an Ackley Improved version? Thoughts, opinions, experiences please. Thanks.

Could that be an over-bore though, I like the idea.

cooler round
338 WSM. slightly more case capacity, and it's as "improved" as it will get

same as 338 jamison

great idea

Hey Seamus:

If you are thinking of a short action, then the 338-284 would be a good bet. Theory says, that it'll give you the same vel. as a 338-06. In the real world, the short action requires deeper bullet seating so you probl'y would not quite get 338-06 velocities (close though).

The 284 case is already pretty straight, and has a 35* shoulder, so "improving" the case probl'y wouldn't. I just built a 338-08 for a short, light "thumper" and it's working awsome. Some guys are always trying to get more and more velocity no matter what you are starting with, they'll tell you bigger is better. In exchanges with other shooters, about the 338-08, some have said, "Hey blow out the case, get a long action, use a short mag case, etc. etc. They didn't get it!!!! I wanted a mild round for an under 6 lb. gun.

The point here is get your velocity priorities straight. If you want a 338 mag, build one!!! (or a short mag). If you want a milder, maybe lighter rifle, go with your idea of the 284 case, or an '06 case if you want a long action. In the real world, with a 338 bullet, a couple hundred fps won't matter a hoot.

Do it!! and you'll have fun...Jim

If you are like me & just want to shoot something different, then it sounds like a great round for a short action, light rifle. I would think it would be very close to the .338-06. Bullet seating in this round wouldn't really pose a problem. All you will need is the 210gr NP @ about 2700fps, what more could you ask for??

Another little wildcat that sounds great is the .338-308.

I've got no problem with your idea, but first think about your intended uses and priorities.

While you gain velocity with the "shortfat" cases, you give up magazine capacity. For example, if you built the same .338-308 as one poster suggested on, say, a Sako L 571, you would have 5 shots in the magazine and one up the tube. If you chambered the .338-284 in the same action, you would likely be able to get only 3 rounds in the magazine; and if you went to a wildcat based on the WSM case, you would probably cut your magazine capacity to two, although some clever reworking might crowd three into it.

Every cartridge represents a compromise of some sort. If getting 100 fps extra from the .284 case or maybe 200 fps extra from the WSM case is worth sacrificing magazine capacity, then that's fine; just be aware of the trade-offs.

Seamus,

I just placed an order with Pac-Nor to build a 338x284. Will let you know how it goes in 12-14 weeks (their delivery time).

The gun will be built on a Ruger 77 Ultra Lightweight, tang safety. The rifle is currently in 308, but the barrel was not taken care of. The action fits the 284 very nicely. Just another 338 to add to the collection.

No flames on the selection please.

Jim