338 Lapua Magnum Ballistics Calculator
Select a common 338 Lapua Magnum load below to generate a full ballistics table, or use the calculator with your own data.
Popular 338 Lapua Magnum Load Presets
300gr Sierra MatchKing
- Muzzle Velocity: 2850 fps
- BC (G1): 0.768
- Use: ELR & military precision
285gr Hornady ELD-M
- Muzzle Velocity: 2745 fps
- BC (G1): 0.789
- Use: Long range precision
250gr Lapua Scenar
- Muzzle Velocity: 2944 fps
- BC (G1): 0.648
- Use: Competition & hunting
338 Lapua Magnum Drop Chart — Reference Data
300gr Sierra MatchKing — 2850 fps MV — 100 Yard Zero
| Range (yds) | Drop (in) | MOA | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lb) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | 0.0 | -0.0 | 2728 | 4956 |
| 200 | -3.2 | 1.5 | 2609 | 4533 |
| 300 | -11.4 | 3.6 | 2493 | 4140 |
| 400 | -25.3 | 6.0 | 2380 | 3774 |
| 500 | -45.3 | 8.7 | 2270 | 3433 |
| 600 | -72.1 | 11.5 | 2163 | 3117 |
| 700 | -106.3 | 14.5 | 2059 | 2824 |
| 800 | -148.7 | 17.8 | 1958 | 2553 |
| 900 | -200.2 | 21.2 | 1860 | 2304 |
| 1000 | -261.8 | 25.0 | 1765 | 2075 |
*Reference data calculated at sea level, 59°F, 50% humidity, no wind.
338 Lapua Magnum Ballistic Performance
Trajectory & Wind Drift
The 338 Lapua Magnum drives extremely high-BC bullets at 2650-2900 fps, giving it one of the best long-range trajectories available. With 300gr Sierra MatchKing bullets, it remains supersonic past 1800 yards. Wind drift is significantly less than smaller magnums at extreme range, making it the standard for ELR competition and military sniping applications.
Energy & Terminal Performance
The 338 Lapua retains over 2000 ft-lb of energy at 500 yards and over 1000 ft-lb past 1000 yards with 300gr match bullets. For hunting, 250gr class bullets provide devastating terminal performance on any North American game at any reasonable hunting distance. Recoil is substantial — roughly three times that of a 308 Winchester.
338 Lapua Magnum FAQ
What is the effective range of 338 Lapua Magnum?
The 338 Lapua Magnum remains supersonic past 1800 yards with 300gr match bullets. Military snipers have made confirmed hits beyond 2500 yards. For hunting, its effective range on large game exceeds 1000 yards with appropriate bullet selection, though most ethical shots are taken within 600 yards.
How does 338 Lapua compare to 300 Win Mag?
The 338 Lapua delivers significantly more energy at all ranges and remains supersonic 500+ yards farther than 300 Win Mag. However, it produces roughly twice the recoil, rifles are heavier and more expensive, and ammunition costs 2-3x more. For most hunting the 300 WM is sufficient; the 338 Lapua excels beyond 1000 yards. See our 300 WM vs 338 Lapua comparison.
Is 338 Lapua Magnum practical for hunting?
While highly effective on large game, the 338 Lapua is generally considered overkill for most hunting situations. It excels for very long-range hunting on elk, moose, and large African game where the extra energy and wind resistance matter. The heavy rifles (typically 12-16 lbs) and strong recoil make it less practical for walk-in hunts.
How much does a 338 Lapua bullet drop at 1000 yards?
With a 300gr Sierra MatchKing at 2650 fps and a 100-yard zero, the 338 Lapua drops approximately 230 inches at 1000 yards under standard atmospheric conditions. This requires roughly 22 MOA of scope adjustment. Use the calculator above for your specific load and conditions.
Related Comparisons
See how 338 Lapua Magnum stacks up against other popular calibers.
Manufacturer Resources
Verify ballistic coefficients and load data from the bullet manufacturers:
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