338 Lapua Magnum Canada: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

When it comes to long-range shooting, the 338 Lapua Magnum is considered one of the most effective cartridges in the world. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about the 338 Lapua Magnum in Canada.

History of the 338 Lapua Magnum

The 338 Lapua Magnum was developed in the 1980s by Lapua, a Finnish manufacturer of ammunition. The cartridge was specifically designed to be used by military snipers and special forces personnel.

Specifications of the 338 Lapua Magnum

The 338 Lapua Magnum is a centerfire rifle cartridge that has a bullet diameter of .338 inches (8.6mm). It has a case length of 2.72 inches (69.1mm) and an overall length of 3.6 inches (91mm). The cartridge can produce muzzle velocities of up to 3,000 feet per second (914 meters per second) and has a maximum effective range of over 1 mile (1,609 meters).

Uses of the 338 Lapua Magnum

The 338 Lapua Magnum is primarily used for long-range shooting, including hunting, military and law enforcement sniping, and competitive shooting. It is also used for long-range target shooting and is considered one of the best cartridges for this purpose.

Availability of the 338 Lapua Magnum in Canada

The 338 Lapua Magnum is legal for hunting in most provinces in Canada, but it is not as widely available as other cartridges due to its specialized use. However, several firearm manufacturers produce rifles chambered in the 338 Lapua Magnum in Canada, including Accuracy International, Cadex Defence, and McMillan Firearms.

Hunting with the 338 Lapua Magnum in Canada

The 338 Lapua Magnum is a powerful cartridge that is well-suited for hunting large game, including moose, elk, and bear. However, hunters must use the appropriate bullet weight and design to ensure a humane kill and to prevent over-penetration.

Competitive Shooting with the 338 Lapua Magnum in Canada

The 338 Lapua Magnum is a popular cartridge for long-range competitive shooting in Canada. Several shooting competitions, including the Canadian Precision Rifle Series, allow the use of the 338 Lapua Magnum.

Military and Law Enforcement Use of the 338 Lapua Magnum in Canada

The 338 Lapua Magnum is used by several military and law enforcement agencies in Canada for long-range sniping. The cartridge’s long-range capabilities make it an ideal choice for this purpose, and its accuracy and power make it effective even at extreme distances.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the 338 Lapua Magnum

One of the biggest advantages of the 338 Lapua Magnum is its long-range capabilities. It can hit targets at distances that other cartridges can’t. It also has a lot of stopping power, which makes it effective for hunting large game and for military and law enforcement use. However, one of the biggest disadvantages of the cartridge is its high recoil, which can make it difficult to shoot accurately, especially for inexperienced shooters.

Safety Precautions When Shooting the 338 Lapua Magnum

When shooting the 338 Lapua Magnum, it’s important to follow all safety precautions, including wearing ear and eye protection, using a proper shooting stance, and keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. It’s also important to only use the cartridge in firearms that are designed to handle its power and recoil.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 338 Lapua Magnum is a powerful cartridge that is well-suited for long-range shooting, including hunting, competitive shooting, and military and law enforcement use. While it may not be as widely available as other cartridges in Canada, there are several firearm manufacturers that produce rifles chambered in this cartridge. It’s important to note that the 338 Lapua Magnum is a specialized cartridge and should only be used by experienced shooters who are familiar with its high recoil and power.

Overall, the 338 Lapua Magnum is an excellent cartridge for long-range shooting, and its effectiveness has been proven in both civilian and military settings. If you’re looking for a cartridge that can hit targets at extreme distances and provide a lot of stopping power, the 338 Lapua Magnum may be the perfect choice for you.

FAQs

1. Is the 338 Lapua Magnum legal for hunting in Canada?

Yes, the 338 Lapua Magnum is legal for hunting in most provinces in Canada.

2. What is the maximum effective range of the 338 Lapua Magnum?

The 338 Lapua Magnum has a maximum effective range of over 1 mile (1,609 meters).

3. What is the recoil like when shooting the 338 Lapua Magnum?

The recoil of the 338 Lapua Magnum is quite high, which can make it difficult to shoot accurately, especially for inexperienced shooters.

4. Can I use the 338 Lapua Magnum for competitive shooting in Canada?

Yes, the 338 Lapua Magnum is a popular cartridge for long-range competitive shooting in Canada.

5. What safety precautions should I take when shooting the 338 Lapua Magnum?

When shooting the 338 Lapua Magnum, it’s important to wear ear and eye protection, use a proper shooting stance, and only use firearms that are designed to handle the cartridge’s power and recoil.