.338 federal
 

Debating a new barrel for my Encore would like a non magnum thumper.... thick woods still hunt and bear/ hog . Looking at .338 federal; but when i compare to .06 not much difference 180, 220 grain. I do reload so availability of factory ammo not a factor. Anyone have an opinion?

Why not get a 45-70 and load it hot?

Welcome to the real world of rifle cartridges...There is lots of overlap in many chamberings..Often the best rationalization to buying a new rifle ( or barrel) in your case is simply because it APPEALS to you...

There is some advantage to the heavier bullets available in the .338.. Also, the frontal area is larger...Paper ballistics may not look real impressive in many cases, but heavy bullets at moderate velocites are proven THUMPERS on game animals... I think the .338 Federal with 225 or 250 grain bullets would be an excellent medium and large game killer at woods ranges...

Explain what you mean by this.

.338
 

I have considered 45-70 leaning toward .338 federal.. when compared seems close fps. and energy under 200 for each.. 06 180 grain 2700/2915 .338 2830/3200 in my opinion close.

why????????

Why NOT...??...

It would fill the bill as a good woods cartridge for deer and hogs....

Certainly there are other similar chamberings, such as the .358 Win and MANY other cartridges that would provide equal or superior ballistics, but you can say that about many of the most popular cartirdges that are available..

As in... For deer or hogs, why would any one need ANYTHING but a 30-06... or .308...or .270...yada,yada,yada.. ??...

It ain't like I am a champion of the round..The most "modern" chambering that I use is a 7mm08... It's just that it would do a great job for what he wants it for...What does it matter that umpteen other cartridges would do just as well..??..

If you handload and the 35 Whelen is an option in barrel choice that would fit the bill for a non magnum thumper.

The Whelen with a 280 grain AFrame is up to the task for even grizzly while the 200 grain rounds are actually more that what is needed for hogs and deer.

Yes....agreed, the .338 Federal will do the job.....but I've yet to see my first box of ammo sitting on any shelf! .308 ammo on the other hand....

Since the OP says he handloads, the availability of factory ammo is a non-factor. Reloading a 338Fed is easy, even if you have to use brass with a 308 headstamp.

I would support the OP going with a 338 Fed. It will do the job and it's different. If everyone only shot a 30-06 or just what can be purchased at WalMart, the gun and hunting world would be a very boring place to be.