When it comes to big-game hunting, choosing the right rifle and cartridge can make all the difference. Two popular choices for long-range hunting are the .338 RUM (Remington Ultra Magnum) and the .300 RUM. Both are powerful cartridges capable of taking down even the largest game at long ranges. In this article, we will compare the two cartridges and help you decide which one is right for you.
Here is the short answer:
The .338 RUM offers more power and knockdown capability at longer ranges, while the .300 RUM offers flatter trajectory and less recoil. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your hunting needs and preferences.
Since we have looked at the short answer, we can look in-depth at each cartridge, each cartridge’s ballistics, and an in-depth comparison.
In-Depth Look at the 338 RUM
The 338 RUM is a caliber of big game hunting rifles that has become increasingly popular amongst hunters in recent years. It was designed to be used on larger species such as elk, moose, and even grizzly bear. This rimless, bottlenecked cartridge first released by Remington Arms Company back in 2002 allows firing bullets up to 300 grains with velocities exceeding 3000 feet per second.
The 338 has very good long-range performance and is great at keeping its energy which is why it is so popular among hunters who need a long-range hunting round for big game such as moose or bear.
Here is a ballistic chart of the 338 RUM with a 210-grain Nolser Accubond:
| Range (YD) | drop (IN) | wind drift (IN) | velocity FPS | energy ft-lb |
| 0 | -1.5 | 0 | 3050 | 4337 |
| 50 | -0.2 | 0.1 | 2929 | 3999 |
| 100 | 0 | 0.7 | 2811 | 3683 |
| 150 | -0.9 | 1.7 | 2696 | 3388 |
| 200 | -2.9 | 3 | 2584 | 3113 |
| 250 | -6.3 | 4.8 | 2475 | 2855 |
| 300 | -11 | 7 | 2368 | 2614 |
| 350 | -17.4 | 9.8 | 2264 | 2390 |
| 400 | -25.4 | 13.1 | 2163 | 2181 |
| 450 | -35.3 | 16.9 | 2064 | 1986 |
| 500 | -47.2 | 21.3 | 1968 | 1805 |
In-Depth Look at the 300 RUM
Hunting and long-range shooting have both caused a rise in popularity for the 300 RUM, as it can deliver fantastic accuracy at distances beyond the norm. This type of performance means that big game hunters can confidently take down their quarry with no issue. The heavy hitting ability of this cartridge makes it a popular choice for those who are hunting big game such as moose or brown bear.
The 300 RUM is a fairly versatile cartridge because of its ability to shoot a wide array of bullet weights. So in theory you could use lighter loads fo game like elk and heavy loads for game such as brown bear without changing rifles.
Here is a ballistics chart of the 300 RUM with a 180-grain Nosler Accubond:
| range (YD) | drop (IN) | wind drift (IN) | velocity FPS | energy ft-lb |
| 0 | -1.5 | 0 | 3100 | 3841 |
| 50 | -0.3 | 0.1 | 3003 | 3604 |
| 100 | 0 | 0.5 | 2908 | 3379 |
| 150 | -0.8 | 1.2 | 2815 | 3167 |
| 200 | -2.6 | 2.3 | 2724 | 2966 |
| 250 | -5.7 | 3.6 | 2635 | 2775 |
| 300 | -10 | 5.3 | 2548 | 2594 |
| 350 | -15.6 | 7.3 | 2462 | 2422 |
| 400 | -22.6 | 9.6 | 2378 | 2259 |
| 450 | -31.2 | 12.4 | 2295 | 2105 |
| 500 | -41.5 | 15.7 | 2214 | 1960 |
In-Depth Comparison
When it comes to comparing the 338 RUM and 300 RUM, there are a few things you should consider. Heavier bullets give the 338 superior energy retention which makes it great for long-range shooting long big game where shot placement and stopping power are paramount.
The 338 RUM has a larger case capacity than the 300 RUM due to its bigger diameter cartridge casing, allowing it to store more powder and consequently reach greater velocities with heavier bullets when compared to its smaller equivalent. This also implies that the 338 will provides more recoil making it more difficult to shoot.
When it comes to cost and availability the 300 RUM is the better round. The 300 RUM is more popular due to its versatility. The 300 RUM also uses less powder and a more popular caliber making it easy to manufacture and therefor cheaper to buy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the .338 RUM and .300 RUM are excellent cartridges for long-range big-game hunting. The .338 RUM offers more power and knockdown capability at longer ranges, while the .300 RUM offers flatter trajectory and less recoil. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your hunting needs and preferences. Consider factors such as recoil, knockdown power, and ammunition availability when making your decision.
Ultimately, the choice between the .338 RUM and .300 RUM comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you’re looking for maximum knockdown power at longer ranges and are comfortable with the recoil, the .338 RUM may be the best choice for you. However, if you want a cartridge with a flatter trajectory and less recoil, the .300 RUM may be the way to go.
See more articles about caliber comparisons, archery, hunting, and survival here