The chart below is computed using the Long Range Science ballistic calculator for some common 338 Winchester Magnum factory loads. These are for comparison with preset environmental data.
338 Winchester Magnum Drop Chart
| Yd | Vel fps | Energy ft·lb | Drop MIL | Drop MOA | Wind MIL | Wind MOA | TOF s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 2810 | 4034 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.000 |
| 100 | 2664 | 3626 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.14 | 0.49 | 0.110 |
| 200 | 2522 | 3250 | 0.43 | 1.48 | 0.29 | 1.00 | 0.225 |
| 300 | 2384 | 2904 | 1.08 | 3.72 | 0.45 | 1.54 | 0.348 |
| 400 | 2250 | 2586 | 1.83 | 6.30 | 0.61 | 2.12 | 0.477 |
| 500 | 2120 | 2296 | 2.67 | 9.16 | 0.79 | 2.72 | 0.615 |
| 600 | 1994 | 2032 | 3.58 | 12.30 | 0.98 | 3.37 | 0.761 |
| 700 | 1873 | 1792 | 4.58 | 15.74 | 1.18 | 4.05 | 0.916 |
| 800 | 1755 | 1573 | 5.67 | 19.51 | 1.39 | 4.78 | 1.082 |
| 900 | 1641 | 1376 | 6.88 | 23.64 | 1.62 | 5.56 | 1.258 |
| 1000 | 1532 | 1198 | 8.20 | 28.18 | 1.86 | 6.39 | 1.448 |
| 1100 | 1425 | 1038 | 9.65 | 33.18 | 2.12 | 7.28 | 1.651 |
| 1200 | 1323 | 894 | 11.26 | 38.72 | 2.40 | 8.24 | 1.869 |
| 1300 | 1222 | 763 | 13.05 | 44.86 | 2.70 | 9.28 | 2.105 |
Drop and wind are come-up corrections (dial/hold up). Wind is a 10 mph full-value crosswind via lag-time approximation. Values assume a 100 yd zero and standard atmosphere.
These numbers are a factory-load reference, not verified DOPE. Differences in your actual muzzle velocity, barrel length, and local air density shift the solution. Confirm your true velocity with a chronograph and validate on target before trusting any chart downrange.
Key Takeaways
- Supersonic to ~1,425 yards: With the Hornady 230 gr ELD-X Precision Hunter, it enters the transonic zone there in standard atmosphere; cold or high-altitude air pushes it farther.
- Holds 1,000+ ft·lb to ~1,125 yards: With the Hornady 230 gr ELD-X Precision Hunter, a common energy threshold for larger game.
- ~2.7 MIL / 9.2 MOA at 500 yards, ~8.2 MIL / 28.2 MOA at 1,000.
- ~1.9 MIL of wind at 1,000 yards in a 10 mph full-value crosswind. Wind is your dominant error source at distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 338 Winchester Magnum drop at 1,000 yards?
With the Hornady 230 gr ELD-X Precision Hunter at 2,810 fps and a 100-yard zero, roughly 8.2 MIL (28.2 MOA), about 295 inches, under standard conditions. Your exact drop depends on your true muzzle velocity and air density, so true your data before relying on it at distance.
Is the 338 Winchester Magnum supersonic at 1,000 yards?
With the Hornady 230 gr ELD-X Precision Hunter at 2,810 fps it retains about 1532 fps at 1,000 yards and stays supersonic to roughly 1,425 yards. Colder, higher-altitude air extends that range further; hot low-elevation air shortens it.
Should I use G1 or G7 BC for the 338 Winchester Magnum?
Use G7 for modern boat-tail bullets like these when the manufacturer publishes it. The G7 standard projectile matches their shape, so the drag curve tracks reality better across the trajectory.
What zero does this 338 Winchester Magnum chart assume?
A 100-yard zero with 1.8 inches of sight height. A different zero shifts the whole table. Enter your own zero in the Ballistics Calculator to regenerate it for your setup.
You Might Also Need
- Ballistics Calculator: run any load with your own velocity, zero, and conditions.
- Bullet Stability Calculator: confirm your 1:10 twist stabilizes these bullets in your air.
- MOA ↔ MIL Converter: switch any correction above between units.
- Ranging Calculator: range your target before you dial.
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