Tyler Freel shares insights on hunting big game with the 338 Lapua Magnum in this podcast interview, focusing on terminal performance, favorite loads, and recoil management.

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In this episode of The Big Game Hunting Podcast, host John McAdams sits down with Tyler Freel to explore the 338 Lapua Magnum—a cartridge renowned for its power and extended range performance. Unlike past discussions with Tyler on smaller rounds, this interview dives into the mighty 338 Lapua Magnum’s big game hunting potential. Tyler recounts how he first got hooked on the 338 Lapua, drawn by its long-range ballistics and ability to anchor massive animals like moose. He details a few instances of taking moose with a 285gr Hornady ELD Match (SD: 0.356) performed on moose at ranges from 200-550 yards.

Tyler compares the 338 Lapua to the 338 Win Mag and 300 PRC, noting its edge in energy retention, but also in recoil. On reloading, Tyler favors slow-burning powders like Retumbo, H1000, and RL-26 to achieve ~2,700 fps of muzzle velocity with 285-grain Hornady ELD Match bullets that slip gracefully through the air, but still perform incredibly well on even the biggest moose.

Tyler’s takeaway? The 338 Lapua isn’t for everyone, but it's a solid performer for use on really big game at extended range. Plus, it's tough to beat the cool factor that comes with this round!

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Resources

Read Tyler's article on Outdoor Life about the 338 Lapua here.

Subscribe to Tyler's Tundra Talk Podcast here.

Follow Tyler on Instagram @thetylerfreel.

Ep 282: Grizzly Bear Hunting With A 6.5 Creedmoor?!? – Podcast referenced in episode

Ep 344: Moose Hunting With 22 ARC – Podcast referenced in episode

300 Win Mag vs 338 Lapua vs 338 Win Mag – Article related to episode

300 PRC vs 338 Lapua – Article related to episode