Just loaded some 338 Win mags in 185, and 210 gn TSXs. Both shoot extremely well at 100 yards. Given the two loads, what are your thoughts as to what weight would be better for Elk/Mule deer hunt?

Thanks in advance,
R1

Both will work fine; whatever shoots the most accurate. I would probably go with the 185 for a flatter trajectory. There is no wrong answer.

The .338 is designed to give optimal performance with heavy bullets. If I wanted to shoot 185 gr bulets I would carry an 06 or .300 mag. I have taken deer with my .338 and 250gr partitions ( chance encounter while moose hunting ) and they drop dead quite nicely.

210 would be a minimum in that caliber otherwise carry a 300 win mag or wsm.

200 gr. and up................

If you are talking about "typical" bullets like CoreLokts, Partitions, Ballistic Tips etc then yeah I say go heavier. BUT you asked about TSXs, these aren't your normal bullets. I can promise you that 185 TSX will out penetrate and out perform ANY weight "typicals". If you still aren't sold then step up too the 210s, but I personally would go with the lighter variety.

Welcome too the "new" generation of bullets,
RA

Thats true. I quess I overlooked the Barnes part. You can go a weight or two lighter with the X bullets for sure. I kinda quit using them because I got tired of scrubbing out copper but they are a top notch performer.

I like any bullet over 200 grain in my .338. I am a fan of Nosler and 200 and 225 grain Accubons shoot very well out of my gun...have not tried the 180 grain AB as of yet.

For elk using the .338 Win. Mag. a 225 gr. premium bulet would be a good choice. Good luck.

Bullistics are real close on these - for energy I would go with the 210g.