.338 Norma Magnum vs .338 Lapua Magnum: A Comprehensive Comparison
The .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum are two of the most respected and powerful long-range cartridges available to civilian and military shooters alike. Both cartridges offer exceptional ballistic performance, making them suitable for engaging targets at extended distances. Choosing between the .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum requires a careful examination of their respective strengths and weaknesses. This article provides an in-depth comparison of the .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum, covering their history, ballistics, applications, and other relevant factors.
A Brief History
The .338 Lapua Magnum was developed in the 1980s as a joint venture between Lapua of Finland and Accuracy International of the United Kingdom. The goal was to create a cartridge that could deliver superior long-range performance compared to existing military cartridges such as the .300 Winchester Magnum and .50 BMG. The .338 Lapua Magnum quickly gained popularity among military and law enforcement snipers due to its flat trajectory, high energy, and ability to penetrate body armor at long ranges.
The .338 Norma Magnum is a more recent development, introduced by Norma Precision in 2008. It was designed to offer similar performance to the .338 Lapua Magnum but with a shorter overall length. This shorter length allows it to be used in standard magnum actions, potentially reducing the weight and bulk of the rifle. The .338 Norma Magnum has gained traction among long-range shooters and hunters who appreciate its compact size and impressive ballistics.
Ballistic Performance
When comparing the ballistic performance of the .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum, several factors come into play, including bullet weight, velocity, and trajectory. Both cartridges typically use bullets in the 250-300 grain range. The .338 Lapua Magnum generally exhibits slightly higher velocities than the .338 Norma Magnum when using comparable bullet weights. This higher velocity translates to a flatter trajectory and greater retained energy at long ranges. However, the .338 Norma Magnum’s shorter case allows for the use of longer, heavier bullets within the same overall cartridge length, potentially closing the performance gap.
The .338 Lapua Magnum, due to its slightly higher velocity, generally offers a flatter trajectory at extreme ranges. This means that less elevation adjustment is required when engaging targets at varying distances. The .338 Norma Magnum, while not quite as flat-shooting, still provides an exceptionally flat trajectory compared to most other cartridges. Both cartridges retain significant energy at long ranges, making them effective for hunting large game or engaging hardened targets.
Velocity and Energy
Typical velocities for the .338 Lapua Magnum range from 2700-3000 fps with 250-grain bullets, while the .338 Norma Magnum typically achieves velocities in the 2600-2900 fps range with similar bullet weights. This small velocity difference translates to a slightly higher energy level for the .338 Lapua Magnum at the muzzle and at long ranges. However, the difference is often negligible in practical shooting scenarios. Both the .338 Lapua Magnum and .338 Norma Magnum deliver tremendous energy, making them suitable for taking down large game animals or penetrating barriers.
Trajectory
The trajectory of a bullet is influenced by its velocity, bullet weight, and ballistic coefficient. The .338 Lapua Magnum, with its higher velocity, typically exhibits a flatter trajectory than the .338 Norma Magnum. This means that the bullet drops less over a given distance, requiring less elevation adjustment. However, the difference in trajectory is relatively small, and both cartridges offer exceptionally flat trajectories compared to other long-range cartridges. Accurate range estimation and proper ballistic calculations are essential for achieving consistent hits at long ranges with either cartridge.
Wind Drift
Wind drift is another important factor to consider when shooting at long ranges. The amount of wind drift is influenced by the bullet’s ballistic coefficient, velocity, and the wind speed. The .338 Lapua Magnum, with its slightly higher velocity, is generally less affected by wind drift than the .338 Norma Magnum. However, the difference is often minimal, and both cartridges are relatively resistant to wind drift compared to other cartridges. Accurate wind calls and proper windage adjustments are crucial for achieving consistent hits in windy conditions.
Rifle Compatibility and Action Length
One of the key differences between the .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum is their compatibility with different rifle actions. The .338 Lapua Magnum requires a dedicated magnum action due to its longer overall length. This means that rifles chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum are typically larger and heavier than rifles chambered in other magnum cartridges. The .338 Norma Magnum, on the other hand, was designed to fit in standard magnum actions. This allows for the use of shorter, lighter rifles chambered in .338 Norma Magnum.
The shorter action length of the .338 Norma Magnum can offer several advantages. It can reduce the weight and bulk of the rifle, making it easier to carry and handle. It can also potentially increase the stiffness of the action, leading to improved accuracy. However, the shorter action length of the .338 Norma Magnum may limit the maximum bullet length that can be used. The .338 Lapua Magnum’s longer action allows for the use of longer, heavier bullets, which can potentially improve ballistic performance at extreme ranges.
Recoil
Both the .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum generate significant recoil. The recoil energy is influenced by the bullet weight, velocity, and rifle weight. The .338 Lapua Magnum typically generates slightly more recoil than the .338 Norma Magnum due to its higher velocity and heavier bullet weights. However, the difference in recoil is often minimal, and both cartridges are considered to be relatively powerful and require proper shooting technique to manage effectively.
Recoil management is crucial for accurate shooting with either cartridge. Proper shooting technique, including a solid stance, a firm grip, and a consistent trigger pull, is essential for minimizing the effects of recoil. The use of a muzzle brake or suppressor can also significantly reduce recoil, making it easier to stay on target and follow through with the shot. A properly fitted stock and recoil pad can also help to distribute the recoil energy and reduce felt recoil.
Applications
Both the .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum are well-suited for a variety of applications, including long-range shooting, hunting large game, and military/law enforcement use. The .338 Lapua Magnum has a long history of success in military and law enforcement applications, where its long-range accuracy and ability to penetrate body armor have made it a valuable tool for snipers. The .338 Norma Magnum is gaining popularity in these applications as well, offering similar performance in a more compact package. [See also: Long Range Shooting Techniques]
For hunting, both cartridges are capable of taking down large game animals such as elk, moose, and bear at extended ranges. The high energy and excellent terminal ballistics of both cartridges ensure quick and humane kills. The .338 Lapua Magnum is often preferred for hunting in open terrain where long shots are common, while the .338 Norma Magnum may be a better choice for hunting in more confined areas where a shorter, lighter rifle is desirable.
Availability and Cost
The .338 Lapua Magnum has been around for a longer time, and ammunition and components are generally more readily available. This also means that there is usually a wider variety of factory loads available for the .338 Lapua Magnum. The .338 Norma Magnum, being a newer cartridge, has a slightly more limited selection of factory loads and components. However, the availability of .338 Norma Magnum ammunition and components is steadily increasing as the cartridge gains popularity.
The cost of ammunition and components is another factor to consider. .338 Lapua Magnum ammunition tends to be slightly more expensive than .338 Norma Magnum ammunition. This is due to the higher cost of components and the more complex manufacturing process. Reloading can help to reduce the cost of ammunition for both cartridges. However, the initial investment in reloading equipment can be significant. [See also: Reloading for Precision]
Conclusion
The .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum are both excellent long-range cartridges that offer exceptional ballistic performance. The .338 Lapua Magnum generally exhibits slightly higher velocities and a flatter trajectory, while the .338 Norma Magnum offers a shorter action length and potentially lighter rifle weight. The choice between the two cartridges ultimately depends on the individual shooter’s needs and preferences. Consider the intended application, rifle compatibility, recoil tolerance, and budget when making your decision. Both the .338 Norma Magnum and .338 Lapua Magnum are capable of delivering outstanding performance in the hands of a skilled shooter.
Ultimately, the decision between the .338 Norma Magnum and the .338 Lapua Magnum hinges on a nuanced understanding of your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize a proven track record, slightly superior long-range ballistics, and wider availability of ammunition, the .338 Lapua Magnum remains a compelling choice. However, if you value a shorter action, potentially lighter rifle, and a cartridge that is rapidly gaining popularity, the .338 Norma Magnum presents a viable and increasingly attractive alternative. Thorough research, careful consideration of your shooting style, and perhaps even hands-on experience with both cartridges are recommended to make the most informed decision.
