As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer with over a decade spent exploring the backcountry and testing gear, I’ve fielded countless questions about cartridges. Lately, one has been popping up with increasing frequency: “Is the .338 Federal discontinued?” The answer, as with many things in the firearms world, is nuanced. While production has been significantly curtailed, it’s not a simple yes or no. This article will break down the history of the .338 Federal, its performance, its current availability, and how it stacks up against other popular hunting cartridges like the .30-06 and .338 Winchester Magnum. We’ll also cover .338 Federal ammo availability and explore options for rifles chambered in this potent round.
The History and Design of the .338 Federal
Introduced in 2001 by Federal Premium Ammunition, the .338 Federal was designed to deliver .338 Winchester Magnum-level performance in a standard-length action. This was a significant advantage, as many hunters already owned rifles with shorter actions, and re-barreling was a more economical option than purchasing a new rifle. The .338 Federal achieves this by necking down the .308 Winchester case to accept a .338 diameter bullet. This design allows for higher velocities and flatter trajectories than the .308 Winchester, while maintaining manageable recoil. Federal aimed to create a versatile cartridge suitable for a wide range of North American game, from whitetail deer to elk and even bear. You can find more information on cartridge design principles at Remington's Ballistics Resource Center.
Why the .338 Federal Was Popular
The .338 Federal quickly gained a following among hunters who appreciated its flat trajectory, excellent downrange energy, and manageable recoil. It proved particularly effective on larger game animals at moderate ranges. Its versatility also made it a popular choice for those who wanted a single rifle capable of handling a variety of hunting situations. The cartridge also found favor in .338 Federal AR10 platforms, offering a powerful semi-automatic option.
The Current Status: Is .338 Federal Production Halted?
This is where things get complicated. While not officially “discontinued” in the strictest sense, production of .338 Federal ammunition has been drastically reduced in recent years. Federal Premium Ammunition has significantly limited its offerings, and finding readily available factory loads can be challenging. This scarcity is due to a combination of factors, including fluctuating demand, raw material shortages, and a shift in Federal’s production priorities. Many sources, including discussions on hunting forums like HuntingNet, confirm the difficulty in sourcing ammunition.
As of late 2023/early 2024, Federal’s website shows limited stock of some .338 Federal loads, but availability varies greatly depending on the specific bullet weight and retailer. This has led many to believe the 338 federal discontinued status is effectively true for all practical purposes.
.338 Federal vs. the Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
Let's compare the .338 Federal to some of its closest competitors. Understanding these differences will help you determine if it’s the right cartridge for your needs, or if another option might be more suitable.
.338 Federal vs. .30-06 Springfield
The .30-06 Springfield is a legendary cartridge with a long and storied history. It remains a popular choice for hunters today. Generally, the .338 Federal offers a flatter trajectory and more downrange energy than the .30-06, especially with heavier bullet weights. However, the .30-06 typically has a wider range of available ammunition and is often more affordable. When comparing 338 vs 30-06, consider the typical hunting distances and game you’ll be pursuing. The .30-06 is still a very capable cartridge, and its widespread availability is a significant advantage.
.338 Federal vs. .338 Winchester Magnum
The .338 Winchester Magnum is the cartridge the .338 Federal was designed to emulate. The .338 Win Mag delivers significantly more power and energy than the .338 Federal, but it also produces considerably more recoil. The .338 Federal offers a more manageable recoil experience, making it easier to shoot accurately, especially for less experienced shooters. However, the .338 Win Mag is generally considered a better choice for very long-range shooting and larger, tougher game. The 338 vs 338 win mag debate often comes down to personal preference and the specific hunting application.
.338 Federal vs. 6.5 Creedmoor
The 6.5 Creedmoor has become incredibly popular in recent years, known for its exceptional long-range accuracy and relatively mild recoil. While the 6.5 Creedmoor excels at long-range precision, the .338 Federal offers more downrange energy and is better suited for taking down larger game animals. The 338 federal vs 6.5 creedmoor comparison highlights a trade-off between precision and terminal performance. The 6.5 Creedmoor is often preferred for target shooting and varmint hunting, while the .338 Federal is better suited for big game hunting.
Finding .338 Federal Ammo and Rifles in 2024
Given the limited availability of factory ammunition, here’s what you need to know:
- Online Retailers: Check major online retailers like MidwayUSA, Brownells, and Palmetto State Armory. Stock fluctuates constantly, so check frequently.
- Local Gun Stores: Call around to local gun stores and sporting goods stores. They may have limited stock or be able to special order ammunition for you.
- Reloading: Reloading is becoming increasingly popular among .338 Federal shooters. This allows you to create your own ammunition using components, which can be more cost-effective and ensure a consistent supply. Resources like the Hodgdon Reloading Data Center provide valuable load data.
- Rifles: While production of new rifles chambered in .338 Federal has also slowed, you can still find them on the used market. Savage Arms and Ruger have both produced rifles in this caliber. Look for models like the Savage 111 and Ruger American Rifle. The 338 federal rifle market is primarily used now.
Is a .338 Federal AR10 a Viable Option?
Yes, the .338 Federal AR 10 is a popular configuration. Building or purchasing an AR-10 platform in .338 Federal offers the benefits of a semi-automatic rifle with the power of the cartridge. However, be aware that AR-10 platforms can be more expensive than traditional bolt-action rifles. Ensure you source a quality upper receiver and barrel specifically designed for .338 Federal.
.338 Federal for Deer and Elk: Is It Effective?
Absolutely. The .338 Federal is a highly effective cartridge for .338 federal for elk and .338 for deer hunting. Its flat trajectory and excellent downrange energy ensure accurate shot placement and sufficient terminal performance. Using appropriate bullet weights and shot angles is crucial for ethical hunting. Always consult your state’s hunting regulations regarding legal cartridges and bullet types. Refer to the National Park Service’s hunting guidelines for specific park regulations: NPS Hunting.
Understanding Federal Ballistics Charts
Accessing accurate federal ballistic chart data is essential for maximizing the performance of your .338 Federal rifle. Federal Premium Ammunition provides ballistics data on its website for its various .338 Federal loads. You can also use online ballistic calculators to estimate trajectory and wind drift based on your specific rifle, ammunition, and environmental conditions. Remember to always verify your ballistic data with real-world testing.
Leave No Trace Principles and Responsible Hunting
Regardless of the cartridge you choose, always practice responsible hunting and adhere to Leave No Trace principles. Pack out everything you pack in, minimize your impact on the environment, and respect wildlife. Learn more about Leave No Trace at Leave No Trace. The USDA Forest Service also provides valuable information on responsible outdoor recreation: USDA Forest Service.
In conclusion, while the future of the .338 Federal remains uncertain due to limited ammunition availability, it remains a potent and versatile cartridge for hunters who appreciate its flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and excellent downrange energy. Whether it’s truly is the 338 federal discontinued is debatable, but its accessibility is undeniably diminished. If you already own a .338 Federal rifle, reloading may be the best option to ensure a continued supply of ammunition. If you’re considering purchasing a rifle in this caliber, carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.