.338 Lapua Magnum

[The6thMessenger]

- What is the maximum barrel length for a .338 Lapua Magnum
- What is the maximum barrel length for a .338 Lapua Magnum overpressured?
- What is the minimum barrel length for a .338 Lapua Magnum
- What is the minimum barrel length for a .338 Lapua Magnum overpressured?

Overpressured meaning +25% powder charge.

Minimum barrel length meaning the shortest barrel length where the barrel is short enough to be mobile, yet still long enough to have good muzzle velocity.

Maximum Barrel length meaning the longest barrel length where the maximum muzzle velocity is produced.

 

[MtnCreek]

I don't have a .338L, so can help. You may get better information if you explain what you're trying to accomplish.

Your definition of over pressure is confusing to me. A +25% powder charge does not equal a certain percentage of pressure because powders burn at different speeds. With an appropriate for cartridge powder, I doubt the case would hold an additional 25% and it would most likely be way in excess of a proof load.

 

[Arizona_Mike]

Probably a reference to the British and German military overpressure (and often over-length) cartridges with VLD bullets issued to snipers.

I doubt it is simply +25% powder as that seems like a lot more pressure and a lot of excess room for the regular load.

If you have specifics, you can run the barrel length numbers with an internal ballistics calculator. Otherwise see what length guns our allies (or competitors in long range shooting competitions) are using.

Mike

 

[TMCCOY]

25% seems extremely excessive. Considering most may go 2-3% over listed grain weights before seeing over-pressure signs with the brass.

 

[barnbwt]

-The operating pressure of 338LP is 61,000psi. There is no way you're getting another 25% of anything without picking brass out of your face after every shot.
-Do realize the ammo is like 5$ or more per round, and the rifles likely thousands before you go down this path (it's basically worse than a 50cal)
-Shortest barrel length is 16" in the States, longest barrel blanks you're likely to find are ~36"
-Max muzzle velocity is probably reached at like a 6ft barrel, or something; lots of gas generated by that huge powder charge
-What's this for? That will answer most/all your questions

TCB