Can weather conditions impact .338 Federal performance with elk?

Bullet Expansion and Temperature

When hunting elk with a .338 Federal, it’s essential to consider the effects of temperature on bullet expansion. The bullet’s core material expands to create a larger diameter as it penetrates the elk’s tissue, but extreme temperatures can affect this expansion. In cold temperatures (below 40°F), the bullet may not expand as much, potentially leading to deeper penetration and increased risk of over-penetration. In hot temperatures (above 80°F), the bullet may over-expand, potentially losing energy and accuracy.

Wind and Bullet Drop

Wind can also impact the performance of a .338 Federal when hunting elk. The bullet’s trajectory will be affected by wind resistance, potentially leading to increased bullet drop and reduced accuracy. Aiming for a 100-yard zero and compensating for wind deflection is crucial in these situations. For example, a 10 mph headwind can result in a 6-inch drop at 200 yards, which is equivalent to a 3 MOA correction.

Choosing the Right Ammunition

For optimal performance in various weather conditions, choose the right ammunition for your .338 Federal. Look for bullets with a high ballistic coefficient (BC) to minimize wind deflection and ensure consistent expansion. A 210-grain bullet with a BC of 0.5 or higher is an excellent option for elk hunting. Additionally, consider ammunition with a high powder charge weight to maintain energy and accuracy in cold temperatures.