I'm considering building a rifle to compliment my 280 AI. I want to build it on the same action with the same stock and same barrel length (22") but with the addition of irons and a scope in Leupold QR mounts. I'd use it for Moose, Elk, and Bears and carry it scope-less in the summer scouting sheep in the mountains or hiking and fishing on private property. I've narrowed it to 338-06, 35 Whelen, or 9.3X62. Which cartridge would you use for the above uses?
Companion to the 280 AI?
- Thread starter chuck nelson
- Start date
- Location
- Lumby Town!!
280AI buddy...
A man after my own heart...mine's a Whelen. Cheap brass, good thump, easy to get die. 338-06 would be a close second though.
A man after my own heart...mine's a Whelen. Cheap brass, good thump, easy to get die. 338-06 would be a close second though.
BC Bigbore
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- BC's Peace Country
.338-06 followed by 9.3x62
- Location
- Daysland AB
All three
On game performance will be the same with all three, so for coolness, I'll say a stainless 9.3x62...
This man has the right idea. 286 grain bullets, good SD and reasonable velocity and BC. Should make a fine choice for the listed game.
338 bullet selection is excellent, but I do think that 9.3 bullets are being made by more companies now than a few years ago, for example Hornady, Swift, Nosler, etc.
since you already have the 280 for lighter game/longer range, Id bypass the 338-06 and get the 9.3x62. The whelen is good, but the 9.3 is so similar, with the ability to get a bit heavier slug................might as well go big
I agree, but I thougth I'd point it out.
Yes, it's getting a bit more popular in NA now, which is a good thing.
- Location
- Saskatchewan
I chose the .35 whelen for the same duty. No detectable difference between the three as far as effect on game. At least you can buy Remington and Federal .35 whelen ammo and brass in most good gun stores. I'd choose the 9.3 as second, not because it's second best, just from ammo availability. the .338/06 is a solution to a problem that does not exist IMHO.
DaavidStuart
Member
- Location
- Kindersley, SK
9.3x62 is my vote. Go big.
Take your pick of the three mentioned. I doubt you'd see much difference in the field.
The only practical advantage I see I see would be with the Whelen as there is lots of brass and factory ammo out there for is, but this advantage is small.
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The only practical advantage I see I see would be with the Whelen as there is lots of brass and factory ammo out there for is, but this advantage is small.
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I have a 35 Whelen and love it and I wouldn't swap it, but if I was to choose, I'd go with the 9.3x62. A bit more case capacity and a bit larger bore equals the potential for slightly heavier bullets and higher MV's. Cool and unusual too (although getting more common). Brass, dies and bullets are not difficult to find.
