It would be VERY interesting to see how the '08 rounds stack up vs the '06 rounds with penetration and expansion test as I seen Finn Aagard do in the past. As you know, when the bullet impacts at slower speeds, expansion is less, which usually increase penetration.

I would think the '08 rounds penetrate perhaps more, with a somewhat narrower wound channel with smaller frontal area given less expansion?

Thoughts?

It would be VERY useful data to see tests done in some form of ballistic media. Any writers reading that are looking for something to do?

All the nay sayers on the 338 F might want to see more field results and tests as above. Not that it has anything a 358 can do, except MORE factory rifles, esp. in bolts, as well as factory ammo.

It seems guys using 338-06 and 35 Whelens that are NOT loaded all the way up never complain as to the field performance, which means their speeds are only that much closer to the '08 ctg's.

I see the '08 based rounds as being perhaps preferable in a shorter barrel gun say 20-21 carbine type. And that can be said of the 350RM. I would not build a long action round on anything shorter than 22-23" barrel if I could help it, for balance as well as performance.

Thoughts? I am speculating as much good info that hardcore 358 users have given on field performance, that the 338F might prove to be as effective, not better per say, but nearly or as effective at dropping game to 300 yds as the 358. Perhaps when the 338 F's get ramped up in production by Remington and Ruger, we will see more shooting tests published to give more data to clarify where we can see the true usefulness in the round. Personally I think I would prefer it to ANY 308 or 30-06 for up to 250-300 yds. That is just me.

I'll take the increased frontal area/weight anyday with trajectory very similar.

I test all my hunting bullets in wetpack. The penetration of the 250gr .338 is impressive. Being that I have only ever recovered one 210grNP, they aren't bad either.
I expect the 210gr NP in the .338Fed. to be very effective out to 300yds on elk size game.

Penetration test .358win200NF: http://www.gunsandhunting.com/articles/bullet_bone/Bullethitsbone.html

and some extra reading on weight retention in general: http://www.gunsandhunting.com/articles/leaded/leaded.html
I would not say no to 338fed, but my pref would certainly be for 30/06 or 338-06. They can still be made into a rather light rig,and I dont see problem with 21" .338-06 aint excatly overbore & to run a good 225-250leadcore or 225tsx( which 338cal deserves)to 300yds, one might surely be wishing for the 33806 case.
Balance?not a problem if you turn the barrel up correctly and choose the correct scope/mounts.
A scoped 21"338-06 can be had at 7.5-8lb and is rather compact. A shorter action (M70sa against LA) would change that by 1/2"overall length and 5oz in receiver weight.
I would not mind tubing something up in 338-06 and giving the 210-225tsx or 225 NF a run, i must admit the 338win has more power than I need most of the time.