Understanding the .338 Lapua Magnum
History and Development
The .338 Lapua Magnum, born from a collaborative effort in the early nineties, aimed to meet the needs of long-range military and law enforcement applications. Finnish company Lapua spearheaded its development, resulting in a cartridge designed to deliver superior performance at extreme distances, far beyond the capabilities of common military cartridges. The primary design goal was to create a cartridge with exceptional ballistic coefficients, meaning it could resist wind drift and maintain its velocity over long distances. This involved utilizing a heavy, high ballistic coefficient (BC) bullet, propelled at a high muzzle velocity.
Ballistics Overview
The .338 Lapua Magnum truly shines because of its combination of power and efficiency. Its ability to carry substantial kinetic energy downrange, coupled with a flat trajectory and wind-bucking capabilities, makes it a premier choice for long-range shooting. Competitors in events such as the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and hunters who seek to take down big game at extended ranges know its capabilities well. The cartridge is frequently used in military and law enforcement for sniper applications due to its ability to penetrate barriers and achieve consistent accuracy over significant distances.
The ballistic profile of the .338 Lapua Magnum allows for effective engagement at distances beyond 1,500 yards, and even to greater extremes with the right set-up and environmental conditions. The specific ballistics will vary based on the bullet weight and design, the quality of the components, and the environmental conditions. Bullet weights typically range from 250 to 300 grains, with the heavier bullets offering increased BC and wind resistance, and the ability to deliver greater energy at impact, while the lighter bullets can achieve higher muzzle velocities. The resulting muzzle velocities typically range from 2800 to 3100 feet per second (fps).
Common Applications
The cartridge’s applications are diverse, encompassing competitive shooting, hunting, and military/LEO operations. Its accuracy and power have cemented its place as a leader in the world of long-range shooting.
The Barreled Action Explained
Definition
At the core of any precision rifle is the barreled action. This crucial assembly comprises the receiver, bolt, and barrel, and is directly responsible for the firearm’s accuracy, reliability, and overall performance. Essentially, it’s the mechanical heart of the rifle, where the cartridge is chambered, fired, and the bullet is sent downrange. Choosing the right barreled action is, arguably, the most important decision in building or upgrading a precision rifle.
Importance in Precision
The receiver serves as the foundation. It’s the housing that contains the bolt and provides a mounting point for the barrel, stock, and scope. The receiver’s design influences the action’s strength, rigidity, and ease of use. Receivers are made in various materials, the most common being steel. The receiver must be able to withstand the immense pressures generated by the .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge, particularly during firing.
Key Components
The bolt is responsible for loading, sealing the chamber, and extracting the spent casing. Its design influences the action’s smoothness, reliability, and the shooter’s experience. Various bolt designs exist, with push-feed and controlled-round feed being the two most common. Push-feed bolts simply push the round into the chamber, while controlled-round feed systems grip the cartridge rim from the moment it leaves the magazine, promoting smoother feeding and extraction.
The barrel is the most critical component influencing accuracy. It’s where the bullet travels, and the quality of its manufacture, the material it is made from, its rifling, and its overall dimensions directly affect the bullet’s trajectory and precision. The barrel’s internal rifling imparts spin to the bullet, stabilizing it in flight and allowing it to maintain a consistent trajectory over distance.
The barreled action, therefore, is the foundation upon which accuracy is built. A well-made and properly assembled barreled action is the first step toward achieving exceptional long-range precision.
Choosing the Right Components
Factors to Consider
Selecting a .338 Lapua barreled action requires a careful consideration of several factors. The intended use is paramount. For instance, a rifle intended for PRS-style competition may require a lighter barrel profile and a more easily manipulated action compared to a rifle used for long-range hunting. The desired accuracy level also has significant bearing on the choice. This means that premium components will generally cost more.
Budget plays a significant role in determining the components selected. Quality components command higher prices. The selection of an action or barrel material, for instance, will often be determined by the intended budget.
Common Receiver Actions
Actions vary significantly in design, materials, and manufacturing methods. While the Remington 700 platform, with its widespread aftermarket support, is a popular choice for modifications, custom actions often provide improved tolerances and features. Quality custom actions made by a manufacturer known for precision will generally perform better.
Barrel Selection
Barrel selection is one of the most crucial steps. Barrel profile and weight influence the rifle’s handling characteristics and thermal stability. Heavier barrels heat up slower, maintaining their accuracy over extended strings of fire, while lighter profiles are more maneuverable. The rifling twist rate must match the bullet weight. The material selection is another critical step, with options including carbon steel and stainless steel. Stainless steel barrels are more resistant to corrosion and easier to maintain.
Trigger Considerations
The trigger is often overlooked but critical for accuracy. A crisp, clean-breaking trigger allows the shooter to execute a shot without disturbing the rifle’s position. Triggers are adjustable and, when tuned correctly, dramatically improve shooting performance.
Pre-Fit vs. Gunsmith Build
The approach to building the rifle is another important consideration: A “pre-fit” barrel allows a gunsmith to perform less work than a custom-built barreled action, with the option of installing it yourself. A gunsmith-built barreled action, on the other hand, provides more customization options and generally ensures the highest level of accuracy due to specialized knowledge and tools.
Accessories and Upgrades
Stock/Chassis Systems
Once the .338 Lapua barreled action is selected and assembled, a suite of accessories will enhance its performance and ergonomics. A high-quality stock or chassis system offers enhanced stability and adjustability, impacting the shooter’s ability to achieve optimal performance. Chassis systems are increasingly popular, as they provide a modular platform for customizing the rifle.
Optics and Mounting
Optics are essential for long-range shooting. A high-quality scope with sufficient magnification, a reliable adjustment system, and appropriate reticle is indispensable. Scope mounts must also be robust and properly installed to ensure consistent zero.
Bipods and Support
Bipods and other support systems stabilize the rifle during shooting, improving accuracy. A solid bipod will reduce the influence of the shooter’s movements, and other accessories like a rear bag offer additional stability.
Muzzle Brakes and Suppressors
Muzzle brakes and suppressors have a significant impact on the felt recoil, and muzzle blast. Muzzle brakes reduce felt recoil, making the rifle more comfortable to shoot, and allowing faster follow-up shots.
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning and Lubrication
Proper maintenance and care are essential for preserving the life and accuracy of a .338 Lapua barreled action. Regular cleaning is required, especially after each shooting session. The barrel should be cleaned using a bore solvent, brushes, and patches to remove carbon fouling and copper residue. The action and bolt should also be cleaned, ensuring proper lubrication of moving parts to promote smooth operation.
Barrel Life
Barrel life is finite, the .338 Lapua Magnum is hard on barrels. It is a high-performance cartridge with a generous propellant charge. The number of rounds a barrel can withstand before significant accuracy degradation depends on several factors, including the type of ammunition used, the frequency of shooting, and the cleaning regimen. Careful maintenance and the use of proper loading techniques will generally increase barrel life.
Headspace Checks
Headspace is another factor affecting barrel life and the safety of the rifle. A headspace check should be performed periodically to ensure it remains within the manufacturer’s specifications. Improper headspace can lead to case failures.
Storage Recommendations
Storage conditions also contribute to overall longevity. The rifle should be stored in a dry environment to prevent rust and corrosion.
Legal Considerations
Firearm Laws and Regulations
Ownership and use of a .338 Lapua barreled action are subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Familiarize yourself with all the applicable laws before purchasing, building, or using the rifle.
Federal laws govern the ownership of firearms and usually require a background check. State laws, especially in states with restrictive gun control, often regulate specific firearm features. Local ordinances may limit the use of firearms on public land or other restrictions. Ensure your actions are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations to ensure safe and lawful operation of the rifle.
Conclusion
The .338 Lapua barreled action represents a pinnacle of long-range precision. It offers a compelling combination of power, accuracy, and versatility. From competitive shooting to hunting, and military/law enforcement applications, it has proved itself repeatedly. The journey to building a .338 Lapua rifle demands careful component selection, proper assembly, and diligent maintenance. By understanding the cartridge’s intricacies, and the considerations around the barreled action, accessories, and care, shooters can unleash the full potential of this remarkable platform. It’s a project that requires thoughtful consideration of each component and a commitment to quality.
Further Research
Before embarking on a .338 Lapua Magnum rifle build, thorough research is key. Explore online forums, consult with experienced gunsmiths, and evaluate different components. By building a foundation of knowledge, you will be well-prepared for the journey.
