.338 Lapua vs .338 Norma mag

[jscandale]

Hi all,

Looking for some experience here on these cartridges. I know that the Lapua has been placed into service, but I have hear some convincing arguments in favor of the Norma.
Is one a better performer over the other?

Thanks,
JS

 

[Mark S in NM]

A better perfomer for what? Either will do well to 1500 yards +.

 

[Larryh128]

The only thing that I would look harder at is the availability of brass now & in the future.

 

[effendude]

Hi John,
I posted a question similar to yours and the post went on for a long time with much info.

http://forum.accurateshooter.com/index.php/topic,3251789.msg31410164.html#msg31410164

Norma still doesn't list the .338 on it's website, but it must be out there. Are you still in PA?
Scott Olson

 

[Jeffvn]

The main difference between the two is that the norma was specifically designed to use a 300 grain Sierra or 300 Grain Lapua bullet and keep it out of the powder column while simultaneously still fitting into the standard 338 LM magazine. In order to get a 300 grain bullet out of teh powder column for standard 338LM, you need to seat the bullet too long for the loaded round to fit into the magazine.

A second benefit in the Norma seems to be an inherently VERY acccurate cartridge that is very forgiving and easy to handload. I recall that there are a few sellers of "factory" ammo for it now, including one who is loading it with lathe turned solids, but I do not remember the names off hand.

That having been said, I am currently shooting the 338LM in two rifles and the 338Norma Mag in none. I am, however, swapping one to the 338 Norma Mag in a few months when my barrel is fully toast. I have already acquired the brass, and a 9.4" twist barrel blank, and have a reamer on order (throated for 300 grain Sierra/Lapua).

Initially there were very few suppliers of brass, but lately I have not had any difficulty finding brass for the 338 Norma Mag through either Midway USA or Graf's.

Jeffvn