LongBomber
CGN Regular
- Location
- Fernie, bc
Just buy his 338 lapua improved and he will go away!!
Looking for a 338 lapua rifle, any suggestions?
- Thread starter pbr streetgang
- Start date
DOn't mind him, very harmless guy, anyway for that much money, instead of putting on the a rifle, you should think much in the long run, stick with SAko TRG42, AI AWP , PGW timberwolf, and also spend some nice chunk of cash to put into optic, the rest can go into ammo and reloading equiptment, stick with the main brand it will pay off in the long run.
check out for trade section on this forum, there is one for sales by SAW gunner, for less than $5000, that is a steal, If I din't got a Sako already, that would be the one,
Mystic Precision
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Summerland, BC
You are quickly running into very opposing needs.
Semi and non restricted in a 338 LM is rare like hens teeth. If they are made, are they able to come to Canada? Are you able to shoot it off a range (restricted).
If you can answer that question by contacting dealers of this type of firearms -see banners above - we can help you get it rigged up and shooting.
Since you don't want a custom, then the very short list of factory rifles are easy enough to sort through. I doubt you will find anything that fits all your criteria.
If you game plan changes to include bolt rifles, the list is enormous and as varied as there are parts in the aftermarket and shooters dreaming how to match them together.
If factory is a must, then the list for top grade accurate factory 338LM include SAKO, PGW, and AI. If you are into the latest tactical clothing, Savage's new 338LM should fit the bill and they do shoot quite well for way less then any of the above. I think these rifles are like $2000 (?). Have them bedded and you are off to the races.
If semi custom is now on the menu, you can start with a Rem or Savage and go from there. Lots of options and will come out no where near what you have for a budget.
Shooting a 338LM doesn't have to cost a fortune but it will be more expensive then many other LR options.
So have a thought on your goals and expectations. Some of them simply aren't obtainable.
But with a slight change, no worries and ALOT lighter then you think.
Jerry
Semi and non restricted in a 338 LM is rare like hens teeth. If they are made, are they able to come to Canada? Are you able to shoot it off a range (restricted).
If you can answer that question by contacting dealers of this type of firearms -see banners above - we can help you get it rigged up and shooting.
Since you don't want a custom, then the very short list of factory rifles are easy enough to sort through. I doubt you will find anything that fits all your criteria.
If you game plan changes to include bolt rifles, the list is enormous and as varied as there are parts in the aftermarket and shooters dreaming how to match them together.
If factory is a must, then the list for top grade accurate factory 338LM include SAKO, PGW, and AI. If you are into the latest tactical clothing, Savage's new 338LM should fit the bill and they do shoot quite well for way less then any of the above. I think these rifles are like $2000 (?). Have them bedded and you are off to the races.
If semi custom is now on the menu, you can start with a Rem or Savage and go from there. Lots of options and will come out no where near what you have for a budget.
Shooting a 338LM doesn't have to cost a fortune but it will be more expensive then many other LR options.
So have a thought on your goals and expectations. Some of them simply aren't obtainable.
But with a slight change, no worries and ALOT lighter then you think.
Jerry
plainSight Solutions
Regular
Some part of me thinks your trolling...
However I'll try to inject some positive input:
First, I think you should critically examine the practicalities of trying to get a semi-auto in 338LM. Aside from all of the other issues involved in obtaining one (rarity, availability, legality...) you also need to think about this: how good of an operator are you with a heavy caliber rifle and the recoil that ensues?
I don't mean this as an insult, however are you skilled enough that you can maintain your cheek-weld and visual acquisition such that a semi-auto is warranted? The reality for most mortals is that by the time we are capable of actually re-acquiring the target for a meaningful shot, the speed benefit of a semi may be lost...
Second, if you plan on lugging a 338 into the alpine, your relevant concern is not the weight of the rifle, but the balance point. I've owned a TRG-42 LM and while the thing wasn't light, it wasn't the weight that made it difficult to carry, but the balance point and HOW it carries.
Long story short, you need to look at a rifle with a folding stock, or better yet, a bullpup design. Reducing the overall length of the piece makes bearing it easier. PGW and AI are available with folding stocks, and if you're lucky, you can get a folding stock for the TRG (at an additional cost of about $2K).
A bullpup is the optimal as you'll save on overall length, weight and the rifle will have the best balance of any design. However here your options are limited: the DSR Precision 1 or the Desert Tactical Arms SRS. The problem with the DSR-1 is that it costs over $10K. The problem with the SRS is that it does not have the proven track record of an AI or SAKO. That being said, when they are availlable, the SRS with one caliber conversion (such as 338LM) is around $5K and it is a remarkable piece of kit.
I've owned a TRG and I own an SRS. The SRS is easier to carry uphill than my Finnlight, because it is so balanced and lays flat against you. In contrast, carrying the TRG on flat ground was amusing for those with me...
Third, you need to think about how you're going to get that gun where you want it to be. Even if you try to use a "sniper" style pack to haul that boomer up into the mountains with a fully loaded backpack (i.e. 4000+ cu inches at around 65 to 70lbs), you are in for some discomfort. The only practical way to carry a long (45+ inches) and heavy (15+ lbs) rifle is with a sheath that interposes between the pack frame and the main bag. Strapping it to the side or back of the pack is not practical.
While Eberlestock (with their various rifle bearing packs) and Mystery Ranch (with the BVS Shooter pack) do make excellent packs for hauling large rifles, they simply do not perform properly in alpine conditions - in my experience anyways. Simply put, because of the presence of the rifle between the frame and pack, you will not be able to secure the main bulk and weight of the pack properly against your back, given the dynamics and physics of hauling loads up alpine terrain.
If you're not bringing much up into the mountains with you, then it ain't so bad. But if you're planning on doing a multi-day alpine hunt...you better buy a rifle that comes with an integrated Sherpa...
However I'll try to inject some positive input:
First, I think you should critically examine the practicalities of trying to get a semi-auto in 338LM. Aside from all of the other issues involved in obtaining one (rarity, availability, legality...) you also need to think about this: how good of an operator are you with a heavy caliber rifle and the recoil that ensues?
I don't mean this as an insult, however are you skilled enough that you can maintain your cheek-weld and visual acquisition such that a semi-auto is warranted? The reality for most mortals is that by the time we are capable of actually re-acquiring the target for a meaningful shot, the speed benefit of a semi may be lost...
Second, if you plan on lugging a 338 into the alpine, your relevant concern is not the weight of the rifle, but the balance point. I've owned a TRG-42 LM and while the thing wasn't light, it wasn't the weight that made it difficult to carry, but the balance point and HOW it carries.
Long story short, you need to look at a rifle with a folding stock, or better yet, a bullpup design. Reducing the overall length of the piece makes bearing it easier. PGW and AI are available with folding stocks, and if you're lucky, you can get a folding stock for the TRG (at an additional cost of about $2K).
A bullpup is the optimal as you'll save on overall length, weight and the rifle will have the best balance of any design. However here your options are limited: the DSR Precision 1 or the Desert Tactical Arms SRS. The problem with the DSR-1 is that it costs over $10K. The problem with the SRS is that it does not have the proven track record of an AI or SAKO. That being said, when they are availlable, the SRS with one caliber conversion (such as 338LM) is around $5K and it is a remarkable piece of kit.
I've owned a TRG and I own an SRS. The SRS is easier to carry uphill than my Finnlight, because it is so balanced and lays flat against you. In contrast, carrying the TRG on flat ground was amusing for those with me...
Third, you need to think about how you're going to get that gun where you want it to be. Even if you try to use a "sniper" style pack to haul that boomer up into the mountains with a fully loaded backpack (i.e. 4000+ cu inches at around 65 to 70lbs), you are in for some discomfort. The only practical way to carry a long (45+ inches) and heavy (15+ lbs) rifle is with a sheath that interposes between the pack frame and the main bag. Strapping it to the side or back of the pack is not practical.
While Eberlestock (with their various rifle bearing packs) and Mystery Ranch (with the BVS Shooter pack) do make excellent packs for hauling large rifles, they simply do not perform properly in alpine conditions - in my experience anyways. Simply put, because of the presence of the rifle between the frame and pack, you will not be able to secure the main bulk and weight of the pack properly against your back, given the dynamics and physics of hauling loads up alpine terrain.
If you're not bringing much up into the mountains with you, then it ain't so bad. But if you're planning on doing a multi-day alpine hunt...you better buy a rifle that comes with an integrated Sherpa...
I agree completely about what he said here, semi auto does look cool and can send round down range fast, but in precision, bolt action is still dominant in accuracy, and with 338lapua such a large board, there is going to be more wear and tear, also there would be export problem from the United state, with that being said, in the long run You will run into further problem with Warrenties issue.
As for my experience with large calibre rifles, I would have to say very little.
I shot the 338 lapua for the first time just a few weeks ago, but I really enjoyed the experience. On that note I've decided to take it a little further and put together the best package I can for 12k or so. I'm proficient with 5.56 & 7.62 and I'm a good shot. I'm quite serious about making a a decision in the next few weeks and I'm not here to waste anyones time. I am genuinely grateful to all who can provide input, and so far it's been quite helpful.
I shot the 338 lapua for the first time just a few weeks ago, but I really enjoyed the experience. On that note I've decided to take it a little further and put together the best package I can for 12k or so. I'm proficient with 5.56 & 7.62 and I'm a good shot. I'm quite serious about making a a decision in the next few weeks and I'm not here to waste anyones time. I am genuinely grateful to all who can provide input, and so far it's been quite helpful.
Going the semi-auto route will cost you far more than it is worth and you will not get the accuracy potential that the .338LM offers at extended ranges.
With a caliber like the .338LM you should seriously consider reloading if you do not already as it will get VERY expensive to shoot for a few hours.
If you are serious about shooting the .338LM I would not go with a semi-auto platform. You would be better served with a bolt gun like a Sako TRG-42 or similar rifle. They will offer you great accuracy and build better habits for accurate shooting. Not to mention be cheaper on the wallet.
With a caliber like the .338LM you should seriously consider reloading if you do not already as it will get VERY expensive to shoot for a few hours.
If you are serious about shooting the .338LM I would not go with a semi-auto platform. You would be better served with a bolt gun like a Sako TRG-42 or similar rifle. They will offer you great accuracy and build better habits for accurate shooting. Not to mention be cheaper on the wallet.
I don't see how a semi adds to the art of accurate longrange shooting....except in a military context. During competition, is there a need to cycle rounds that fast? All the range comps. I have seen things have gone much slower.
It would seem to me that a semi in this context would be like building an Indie race car with snowtires! Just my $.02
It would seem to me that a semi in this context would be like building an Indie race car with snowtires! Just my $.02
ultimate_monkey
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- victoria BC
x2583497563785 on going with a bolt if accuracy is the name of the game.. for 12g you should be able to get a damn nice set up! when you said you wanted to stay away from custom for resale value of things, your going to have the same effect with a semi, your resale market will be very limeted and it will be hard to sell unless u take a big loss..
as for every one harping on the weight of the rifle with being around 30lbs.. think of it this way,, how many of you are extended hikers/campers? and i dont mean hike 5 mile of the road and stay in one spot for a night. iv been on a few trips where my gear has weighed in at 75-80lbs for clothes, tent, bag and food.. and thats with 6-8 hrs of hikeing a day... so a 30lbs rifle with 30 lbs of gear for a 1-2 day shooting trip isnt that big of a deal.
as for every one harping on the weight of the rifle with being around 30lbs.. think of it this way,, how many of you are extended hikers/campers? and i dont mean hike 5 mile of the road and stay in one spot for a night. iv been on a few trips where my gear has weighed in at 75-80lbs for clothes, tent, bag and food.. and thats with 6-8 hrs of hikeing a day... so a 30lbs rifle with 30 lbs of gear for a 1-2 day shooting trip isnt that big of a deal.
I have shot .338 Lapua but do not own a rifle in that calibre - .300 WM is as big a dog as I own - so I can't really comment on the caliber choice but I can offer an opinion re choice of action and it is pretty much as stated by others here: IMO choosing a semi over a bolt provides only one advantage = a faster follow-up shot. That advantage is negated the harder hitting the caliber and, other than in a two-way range, is of dubious benefit anyway for precision work. Choosing a bolt gun is a smarter option as you have far more choices available to you and far less worry about restricted vs non etc. It is, of course, your money but you asked for advice and some of the contributors ahead of me really know their stuff so, as a fellow new to this, it would be sensible to review your options having heard what they had to say.
Of the rifles mentioned by others, I own a TRG ( albeit a 22 not a 42 ) and can say that it is a very fine piece of kit. PGW Timberwolf is as your know from your 3 years overseas, the choice of the CF and AI - well, their pedigree kinda speaks for itself.
Good luck with whatever you decide to get.
Of the rifles mentioned by others, I own a TRG ( albeit a 22 not a 42 ) and can say that it is a very fine piece of kit. PGW Timberwolf is as your know from your 3 years overseas, the choice of the CF and AI - well, their pedigree kinda speaks for itself.
Good luck with whatever you decide to get.
One thing that doesn't appear to be addressed is for the semi to have reliable functioning, it has to be a little looser in the chamber, plus the firing and extraction process is hard on the brass.
The brass will expand a bit more than a tighter chambered BA and shorten the brass life.
The extractor will/may damage the rim and shorten the brass life
I'm on loading number 11 from my PGWDTI Timberwolf.
This is another factor to consider - unless you are loaded with wads of coin.
The brass will expand a bit more than a tighter chambered BA and shorten the brass life.
The extractor will/may damage the rim and shorten the brass life
I'm on loading number 11 from my PGWDTI Timberwolf.
This is another factor to consider - unless you are loaded with wads of coin.
Glock4ever
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Edmonton, AB
Interesting question, wish I could help... I don't know of too many semi-auto .338 LM. Is there a particular reason that you need a semi vice a good ol' boltgun? A bolt will be more accurate and much more easier to source as well a semi will definitely weigh more than a semi. I have a bolt 338LM and I don't feel the least bit underpowered with that particular rifle. Mine weighs about 20lbs all dressed out (S&B PM2 5-25x56, TPS rings, 20MOA rail, 27" bolt rifle with 5 shot magazine). I find that at 20lbs she is pretty hefty for walks out in the bush but the weight is nice for shooting - she recoils less then my 308 Win Rem LTR. This is probably the reason you won't find too many semi 338 LM floating around... good luck with your search.
I currently own 3 rifles in .338.
2 are .338 Lapua and the other is .338 RUM.
The .338 Rum is the lightest of the three and from a Hiking/Hunting perspective the barrel is too long, the balance is off and it doesn't come with me unless i am hiking in less than 100 yards from my quad.
The 1st .338 Lapua is in a AICS folding stock and suffers from the same problems as the RUM rifle.
The 2nd .338 Lapua is a heavy barrel target version which stays within 50 yards of the vehicle it is delivered in.
Your comment on "remote locations" leads me to believe you will be hiking into the area.
There is quite a bit of equipment required beyond just the rifle and i would guess that your "pack" weight might exceed 70 lbs.
If your planning to go in "light" consider using a biathalon sling and a waist pouch setup. I have 2 biathalon slings and they are the most comfortable means of packing the weight around but they also prevent the addition of a backpack.
If I am going out to shoot long distance "800 yards +", it generally requires 4-6 hours of travel time (round trip) so i try to make the trip worth my while by shooting alot, i generally take multiple rifles and 200-400 rounds of ammunition. This means that my access is via truck and quad for weight carrying ability.
There is a new Canadian company advertising a semi .338 rifle but i believe that is would be considered a "restricted" rifle based on the AR Variant. The web site doesn't state what its classification is ? so i am only taking a guess on the classification based on the picture.
ht tp://www.canstararms.ca/index.html
Good luck finding your rifle !
2 are .338 Lapua and the other is .338 RUM.
The .338 Rum is the lightest of the three and from a Hiking/Hunting perspective the barrel is too long, the balance is off and it doesn't come with me unless i am hiking in less than 100 yards from my quad.
The 1st .338 Lapua is in a AICS folding stock and suffers from the same problems as the RUM rifle.
The 2nd .338 Lapua is a heavy barrel target version which stays within 50 yards of the vehicle it is delivered in.
Your comment on "remote locations" leads me to believe you will be hiking into the area.
There is quite a bit of equipment required beyond just the rifle and i would guess that your "pack" weight might exceed 70 lbs.
If your planning to go in "light" consider using a biathalon sling and a waist pouch setup. I have 2 biathalon slings and they are the most comfortable means of packing the weight around but they also prevent the addition of a backpack.
If I am going out to shoot long distance "800 yards +", it generally requires 4-6 hours of travel time (round trip) so i try to make the trip worth my while by shooting alot, i generally take multiple rifles and 200-400 rounds of ammunition. This means that my access is via truck and quad for weight carrying ability.
There is a new Canadian company advertising a semi .338 rifle but i believe that is would be considered a "restricted" rifle based on the AR Variant. The web site doesn't state what its classification is ? so i am only taking a guess on the classification based on the picture.
ht tp://www.canstararms.ca/index.html
Good luck finding your rifle !
