338 LAPUA for Sale
Browse 338 lapua listings from verified sellers across the U.S. on GunsAmerica.
338 Lapua Overview
Introduced in 1989, the .338 Lapua Magnum was designed for long-range military sniping. It offers high-powered precision and effective terminal performance at extended distances. Today, it remains popular among military marksmen and long-range shooting enthusiasts worldwide.
Why .338 Lapua Magnum Is a Top Choice
- Exceptional long-range accuracy beyond 1,500 meters
- High ballistic coefficient for retained velocity
- Effective heavy bullet weight options for penetration
- Used by military and special operations units globally
- Wide range of compatible rifles and ammunition
Key Variants
.338 Lapua Magnum LP
A standard load variant favored by precision shooters for consistency at extreme ranges.
.338 Lapua Magnum OM3
Heavy match-grade bullet option designed for superior long-distance penetration.
.338 Lapua Magnum Scenar
Designed for enhanced ballistic performance using proprietary bullet profiles.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | .338 Lapua Magnum | .300 Winchester Magnum | 6.5 Creedmoor |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $3.50–$5.00 per round | $1.50–$3.00 per round | $1.20–$2.50 per round |
| Capacity/Size | Large cartridge, ~3.34\" case length | Moderate size, ~2.62\" case length | Compact, ~1.92\" case length |
| Weight | Heavy recoil, high power | Moderate recoil, versatile | Low recoil, precision focused |
| Optics-Ready | Yes, common on rifles | Yes | Yes |
| Trigger Type | Bolt action predominantly | Bolt and semi-auto variants | Bolt action |
| Notable Pro | Unmatched long-range power | Versatile hunting round | High accuracy, low recoil |
| Notable Con | Heavy recoil, costly | More recoil than smaller calibers | Limited stopping power |
Best Use Cases
- Long-range military and law enforcement sniping
- Precision target shooting and competition
- Big-game hunting requiring high energy impact
- Extreme distance range practice
- Firearms collection for magnum calibers
FAQs
Can I use .338 Lapua Magnum in standard bolt-action rifles?
Yes, most bolt-action rifles chambered for .338 Lapua are built to handle its high pressure and recoil safely.
What is the effective range of the .338 Lapua Magnum?
Typically effective for precise shots up to 1,500 meters when used by trained marksmen with suitable optics.
How does .338 Lapua compare to .300 Winchester Magnum in performance?
The .338 Lapua offers superior long-range power and energy, but with more recoil and higher ammunition cost than .300 Win Mag.
