Help me decide - Kimber 84M in 308 or 338

[Prdatr]

I am leaning torward the 308 as this will primarily be a deer rifle but plan on using it for Elk. Has anyone shot or owned one?
I have a Model 700 in 7mag but want a light weight rifle and this is the one I have decided on.
I know the 338 Federal "should" kick more but do not know anyone who has one so the best I have been able to do is use a recoil calculator.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Vern Humphrey]

I'd go with the .308. Ammo is cheaper. If you reload, brass is plentiful. And the .308 is fine for elk.

 

[jpwilly]

The Knock Down Power of the 338 Federal is going to be more than the 308 with the larger diamiter bullets...but both should be just as effective as the next with good shot placement on game such as Deer and Elk. Here's a good read on this. Finding the ammo and ammo cost are the only things negatives you'll have to deal with if you go with the 338.

308 Win...........180-grain, 2743 ft-lbs, 2620 fps
308 Win...........200-grain, 2690 ft-lbs, 2461 fps
338 Federal......180-grain, 3200 ft-lbs, 2830 fps
338 Federal......210-grain, 3224 ft-lbs, 2630 fps

 

[Belgiboy]

.308 all the way. It is more than adequate for elk and a lot less painful to practice with than .338. Easier on the wallet and the shoulder.

 

[CCH]

.308, particularly if it's mainly for deer. If you are looking for a dedicated elk rifle, the .338 would merit serious consideration. I have a .308 Montana that I love.

 

[Orr89rocz]

they make GREAT loads for the 308...any of the partition gold/fail safe bullets will penetrate on elk. 338 federal is a nice round by the numbers but it doesnt really fill any niche that other calibers can more than make up for.