Extreme long-range military cartridge. Designed to engage targets beyond 1500 meters. Heavy recoil but high ballistics.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1989, Finland
Parent case: .416 Rigby
Standardization: CIP
Bullet diameter: 0.338" (8.58 mm)
Case length: 2.724" (69.2 mm)
Overall length: 3.681" (93.5 mm)
Max pressure: 60,916 PSI
Rim type: Rimless
Primer: Large Rifle Magnum
Typical twist rate: 1:9.3 to 1:10
Muzzle velocity: 2650–2900 fps
Muzzle energy: 4300–5000 ft-lbs
Effective range: 1750 yd
Common bullet weights: 230, 250, 270, 285, 300 gr
Primary use: Military, Target, Hunting
Production status: Active
Also known as: .338 Lapua · 8.6x70mm
History: Developed during the 1980s for military snipers needing capability beyond .300 Win Mag. Lapua partnered with Research Armament Industries, with formal CIP registration and commercial introduction in 1989. Became the standard cartridge for many military long-range sniper programs worldwide.
Notable firearms: Accuracy International AX338, Barrett MRAD, Sako TRG-42, Desert Tech SRS
Military use: {"country":"Various","years":"1990s-present","conflicts":["Various military operations"]}
Similar cartridges: .338 Norma Magnum, .300 Win Mag