338 Lapua vs 338 Win Mag: Very Different on Steel?

Published on March 21, 2023
Duration: 7:46

This video provides an expert-level comparison of the .338 Lapua Magnum and .338 Winchester Magnum cartridges, focusing on their steel penetration capabilities. The host, demonstrating high technical proficiency, uses a chronograph and digital calipers to analyze velocity, energy, and penetration depth on various steel plate thicknesses. Key takeaways include the surprising finding that the .338 Win Mag penetrated deeper into 3/4-inch steel than the .338 Lapua, attributed to its higher velocity despite a lighter bullet.

Quick Summary

Expert analysis comparing the .338 Lapua Magnum and .338 Winchester Magnum on steel targets reveals the .338 Win Mag achieved deeper penetration (0.303") into 3/4-inch steel than the .338 Lapua (0.208"), attributed to its higher velocity. Both cartridges successfully penetrated thinner steel plates.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 338 Caliber Comparison
  2. 00:34Velocity and Energy Data
  3. 01:01Testing on 1/4" & 3/8" Steel
  4. 02:36Testing on 1/2" Steel
  5. 03:41Testing on 3/4" Steel
  6. 04:55Penetration Depth Analysis
  7. 06:29The Physics of Steel Penetration

Frequently Asked Questions

How do the .338 Lapua Magnum and .338 Winchester Magnum compare in steel penetration?

In tests on 3/4-inch steel, the .338 Winchester Magnum penetrated deeper (0.303") than the .338 Lapua Magnum (0.208"). This was attributed to the Win Mag's higher velocity (approx. 350 fps faster), despite the Lapua's heavier bullet. Neither cartridge achieved a full pass-through.

What factors influence bullet penetration on steel targets?

Bullet penetration on steel is influenced by factors such as muzzle velocity, bullet weight, bullet construction, and the thickness and hardness of the steel. The formation of a 'steel wad'—a piece of steel sheared out by the bullet—is often the primary mechanism of penetration.

What were the key performance metrics for the .338 Win Mag and .338 Lapua Mag tested?

The .338 Win Mag (200 gr SST) averaged 3042 fps with 4110 ft/lbs of energy. The .338 Lapua (285 gr ELD-M) averaged 2667 fps with 4502 ft/lbs of energy, both from 26-inch barrels.

Is shooting steel targets safe with powerful magnum cartridges?

Shooting steel targets with powerful cartridges like the .338 Lapua or .338 Win Mag can be dangerous. The video includes a safety warning advising against attempting these tests at home due to the risk of ricochets and unpredictable bullet behavior.

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