Introduction
Hook
The whisper of wind, the blur of a distant target, and the anticipation building to the squeeze of a trigger. For those who crave the challenge of extreme long-range shooting, few cartridges and rifles evoke the same respect and power as the combination of the 338 Lapua Magnum and a Savage 110.
Introduce the Combination
This pairing represents a pinnacle of precision, offering the ability to reach out and touch targets at distances previously considered unimaginable.
Thesis Statement
This article will explore the synergy between the 338 Lapua Magnum and the renowned Savage 110 platform, showcasing why this combination has become a favorite among long-range hunters, competitive shooters, and enthusiasts alike. We’ll delve into the cartridge’s inherent capabilities, the rifle’s innovative features, and the practical applications of this exceptional system.
Understanding the 338 Lapua Magnum
History and Development
The 338 Lapua Magnum, born from the demands of military and law enforcement, entered the shooting world with a singular purpose: to deliver devastating power and pinpoint accuracy at extreme ranges. Developed in the late 1980s by Lapua, a Finnish ammunition manufacturer, the cartridge was designed to bridge the performance gap between the .300 Winchester Magnum and larger, heavier cartridges like the .50 BMG. It quickly gained traction for its impressive ballistic performance and ability to maintain energy and trajectory over remarkable distances.
Ballistics
Bullet Weight and Velocity
The 338 Lapua Magnum’s success lies in its carefully engineered design. Its substantial case capacity allows for the efficient burning of large propellant charges, propelling heavy-for-caliber bullets at impressive velocities. Typically, bullets range from approximately two hundred and fifty to three hundred grains, providing excellent sectional density and ballistic coefficients.
Trajectory
The trajectory of the 338 Lapua Magnum is remarkably flat, especially compared to other cartridges designed for similar applications. This flat trajectory reduces the amount of elevation adjustment needed to hit a target at extreme ranges, simplifying the aiming process. For example, at a thousand yards, a well-zeroed 338 Lapua Magnum will experience significantly less bullet drop than a smaller caliber rifle.
Energy
Beyond its flat trajectory, the 338 Lapua Magnum excels at retaining energy at long ranges. The combination of heavy bullets and high velocities results in significant kinetic energy that translates into a powerful impact on the target. This retained energy is critical for delivering sufficient terminal performance on game or effectively neutralizing targets at extreme distances. The retained energy is what makes the 338 Lapua Magnum so effective for long-range hunting; it delivers a substantial punch even when reaching far out targets.
Advantages of 338 Lapua Magnum
Superior Ballistics
Bullet weight plays a crucial role in the 338 Lapua Magnum’s effectiveness. Heavier bullets, while producing more recoil, tend to retain their velocity and resistance to wind drift over longer distances. Lighter bullets offer flatter trajectories at shorter ranges but can be more susceptible to wind. The shooter must carefully choose the bullet weight that balances the desired range with the prevailing wind conditions.
Effectiveness
The 338 Lapua Magnum excels at retaining energy at long ranges. The combination of heavy bullets and high velocities results in significant kinetic energy that translates into a powerful impact on the target. This retained energy is critical for delivering sufficient terminal performance on game or effectively neutralizing targets at extreme distances.
Range
The 338 Lapua Magnum delivers a substantial punch even when reaching far out targets.
The Savage 110 Platform
History and Reputation
Savage Arms has a long and storied history in firearms manufacturing. Their reputation for producing accurate and reliable rifles at affordable prices is well-earned. The Savage 110 platform, introduced decades ago, remains a cornerstone of their product line, known for its innovative features and consistently impressive accuracy. This rifle has become a standard for quality.
Key Features and Benefits
AccuTrigger
The Savage 110’s defining characteristic is its AccuTrigger system. This adjustable trigger allows the shooter to fine-tune the trigger pull weight, providing a crisp and consistent break. The AccuTrigger contributes significantly to the rifle’s inherent accuracy by minimizing trigger pull variations, which helps the shooter deliver a more precise shot. This user-friendly trigger system makes it easier for shooters to reach their potential.
AccuStock/AccuFit
Beyond the trigger, the Savage 110 often features the AccuStock or AccuFit stock systems. These stocks are designed to enhance the rifle’s ergonomics and shooter comfort. The AccuStock is an injection-molded, pillar-bedded stock that provides a solid platform for the action, further contributing to accuracy. The AccuFit system allows for adjustments to length of pull and comb height, allowing shooters to custom-fit the rifle to their individual needs. This customization leads to increased comfort and accuracy.
Action
The heart of the Savage 110 is its action. The action’s design incorporates a floating bolt head, which allows the bolt face to self-center in the barrel, improving concentricity. This attention to detail results in exceptional accuracy potential. Savage’s attention to precision in the manufacturing process contributes to a rifle capable of incredible performance.
User-Friendly Design
The Savage 110 platform is designed to be user-friendly, with features that cater to both novice and experienced shooters. Its easily accessible controls, simple maintenance, and straightforward design make it a pleasure to handle.
Models and Configurations
Savage has a model in the 110 that has 338 Lapua Magnum chambering.
Combining 338 Lapua and Savage 110: A Perfect Match
Compatibility
The Savage 110, with its robust construction and renowned accuracy, is an ideal platform for chambering the powerful 338 Lapua Magnum. The rifle’s design easily accommodates the cartridge’s larger size and higher pressure, ensuring safe and reliable operation. The marriage of these two elements is a winning combination.
Accuracy
The inherent accuracy of the Savage 110, coupled with the ballistic prowess of the 338 Lapua Magnum, creates a system capable of achieving remarkable results. Properly loaded ammunition and a well-trained shooter can consistently hit targets at distances exceeding a thousand yards. The potential for exceptional accuracy is the cornerstone of the pairing’s success.
Customization
Optics
The 338 Lapua Savage 110 offers great customization options, allowing the shooter to tailor the rifle to their specific needs and preferences. Choosing the right optics is critical for long-range shooting. High-quality scopes with large objective lenses, adjustable turrets, and reticles designed for long-range ballistic calculations are essential. Investing in a good scope will greatly improve the shooting experience.
Accessories
Beyond optics, a variety of accessories can further enhance the performance of the 338 Lapua Savage 110. A sturdy bipod provides a stable platform for long-range shots. Muzzle brakes reduce recoil, making the rifle more comfortable to shoot and allowing for faster follow-up shots. Stock upgrades, such as adjustable cheekpieces and recoil pads, can further improve the shooter’s comfort and consistency.
Reloading
Reloading, the process of creating your own ammunition, is highly recommended for owners of 338 Lapua Savage 110 rifles. Reloading allows for precise control over bullet weight, powder charge, and overall cartridge length, optimizing the rifle’s performance. It also provides the flexibility to experiment with different components and tailor the load to specific shooting conditions. It is crucial to follow safe reloading practices when working with 338 Lapua Magnum.
Applications of the 338 Lapua Savage 110
Long-Range Hunting
The 338 Lapua Savage 110 combination is a versatile system suited for a variety of applications. From the hunting field to the competitive range, the rifle’s capabilities shine.
The 338 Lapua Savage 110 is a formidable choice for long-range hunting of big game. Its flat trajectory, high retained energy, and effective range make it suitable for taking down elk, moose, bears, and other large animals at extended distances. The cartridge’s ability to deliver a significant amount of energy at long range ensures a humane and ethical harvest.
Competitive Shooting
In the realm of competitive shooting, the 338 Lapua Savage 110 can hold its own in long-range disciplines. Its exceptional accuracy, combined with its powerful ballistics, allows shooters to engage targets at distances where other calibers struggle. Whether it’s benchrest shooting or tactical-style competitions, the rifle’s performance is impressive.
Target Shooting
Even for casual target shooting, the 338 Lapua Savage 110 can provide an incredibly rewarding experience. The challenge of hitting targets at extreme ranges, combined with the rifle’s inherent accuracy, makes it a thrilling and addictive pursuit. It can be used for target practice and recreational shooting.
Law Enforcement and Military
While the 338 Lapua Savage 110 isn’t commonly used by law enforcement, it is a formidable weapon.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
Recoil
While the 338 Lapua Savage 110 offers exceptional performance, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks. The significant recoil generated by the cartridge can be challenging for some shooters. Mastering recoil management is essential for consistent accuracy. Proper technique, combined with recoil-reducing accessories, can mitigate the effects of recoil.
Cost
The cost of owning and shooting a 338 Lapua Savage 110 can be substantial. The rifle itself, along with high-quality optics and accessories, represents a significant investment. The cost of ammunition, which tends to be higher than other cartridges, can also be a factor. Reloading offers a way to offset some of these costs, but the initial investment in reloading equipment is also necessary.
Barrel Life
The 338 Lapua Magnum, due to its powder capacity and pressures, can also result in a relatively shorter barrel life compared to smaller cartridges. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to maximize the barrel’s lifespan.
Legal Considerations
Furthermore, it’s crucial to be aware of and comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding firearms ownership and use. This includes understanding the specific legal requirements for the 338 Lapua Magnum in your area.
Conclusion
Recap
The 338 Lapua Savage 110 combination represents a pinnacle in long-range shooting. Its ability to deliver exceptional accuracy, coupled with the raw power of the 338 Lapua Magnum, makes it a formidable system for hunters, competitive shooters, and enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
This pairing offers a compelling blend of performance and affordability, making it an attractive option for those seeking to push the boundaries of long-range shooting. If you’re seeking a rifle that can reach out and touch targets at extreme distances with confidence, the 338 Lapua Savage 110 is an excellent choice. The combination is a powerful long-range weapon.
Call to Action
Consider this platform for your long-range shooting endeavors. The thrill of making those long-range shots is a unique experience, and the 338 Lapua Savage 110 is up to the task. The Savage 110 is a great way to get started.
Where to buy and Reliable Dealers
When seeking a 338 Lapua Savage 110, or components to build one, it’s important to patronize reputable retailers. Your local gun shop is a great place to start. Online retailers that specialize in firearms and shooting accessories are also a good source. Be sure to review product specifications and compare prices to ensure you’re making a good investment. Make sure to be aware of federal and local laws before purchasing.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) (Optional)
What is the effective range of the 338 Lapua Savage 110?
The effective range of the 338 Lapua Savage 110 can exceed a mile, but the shooter’s skill, environmental conditions, and specific load will play a significant role in determining the maximum effective range.
How accurate is the Savage 110 chambered in 338 Lapua?
A well-maintained and properly set-up Savage 110 chambered in 338 Lapua Magnum, using quality ammunition, is capable of sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy, meaning it can consistently group shots within an inch at a hundred yards.
What type of scope should I use?
For a 338 Lapua Savage 110, a high-quality scope with a large objective lens (50mm or larger), adjustable turrets, and a reticle designed for long-range ballistic calculations is recommended. Features such as first or second focal plane are also considerations.
What are the best bullet choices?
The best bullet choices for the 338 Lapua Savage 110 depend on the intended use. For hunting, bonded or controlled-expansion bullets are recommended. For long-range target shooting, match-grade bullets with high ballistic coefficients are favored. Consult reloading manuals and experienced shooters for advice.
How much does a 338 Lapua Savage 110 cost?
The price of a 338 Lapua Savage 110 can vary depending on the specific model, stock, and features. Expect to pay several hundred to over a thousand dollars for the rifle. The cost of accessories like a scope, bipod, and ammunition will add to the total investment.
