I have had .338s for forever.
My Current .338 is a 340 wby. Great round and this is my 5th rifle in this cartridge.
I think I got it right this time. I handload for load quality and cost savings.
The 338 is at it's best with 225 and 250 gr bullets. I have killed a couple of spike bulls with 210 Nosler Partitions and it worked fine. But I think the 225 is a better choice for bigger critters. 250 gr for things that might bite back I would shoot 185 for Deer but I would step up for larger animals.
My Hunting partner shoots a 338 win mag and he loves it as well.
The recoil to me is decidedly heavy but different that an hyperactive .300 win mag load.
If you do buy one shoot it often and you will be fine. That is expensive but worth it.