Talk me into the 338-06 Improved
 

I dont think the chamber has been reamed yet on my 338-06. I saw some of you guys looking for an improved die. Talk me into or out of the improved version for this wildcat.

RE: Talk me into the 338-06 Improved
 

Jess, My opinion on this matter is that if you want some extra case capacity, just go with a 338 mag. I realize you cant easily do that right now. I really dont know how much increase in horse power the improved case will yield, but out of my standard version, I can drive 200 gr bullets to 2900fps and 250 gr bullets to 2500. Of course the only way you will ever know positively what the gain in your rifle would be is to chamber it in the standard version first and then re cut the chamber to the improved and see what benefit you might get. I dont guess Im helping you much am I? LOL, well, flip a coin. Since I have only worked with the standard chamber, about the only thing I can say is that I have never felt the need for more case capacity in either of the two rifles I have used. Both of my rifles have responded well with medium burning rate powders like 4895, 4064, 4320, etc. Youre not likely to run out of case capacity with those numbers. I suppose that if you were going to want to shoot the heavy bullets alot, it might be good to have a little more room in the case for slower powders like 4350. Might get higher velocities with a good dose of slower powder and the heavy bullets. I really dont know if you would or not. Besides, if you were going to be shooting the heavy bullets all the time, you would be better off with the magnum case. And do you think a bear or an elk or deer can tell the difference between 2500 and 2700 fps, I doubt it. The paper ballistics look good as far as the drop figures go for the faster load, but I dont know a shooter who can discern three inches difference in drop at 300 yds from any kind of hunting position. Good luck with which ever one you choose. I have found the standard to be easy to work with and imagine the improved version is too.

RE: Talk me into the 338-06 Improved
 

Thanks Larry, I know all of what you are saying is true and I appreciate it. The one wild card here is that I am a true rifle looney. Just now getting the funds to indulge if you know what I mean. This gun is actually the first gun I ever owned. Several others have followed but this one will never leave because of sentimental reasons. I just figure that the little bit of extra juice might come in handy sometime. No I'm not a power freak and will probably settle on good moderate hunting loads anyway. I just frankly like having what not many people have! I also seem to share your infatuation with the 338 bore. Thanks again.