2 of 3 .338 RUM factory loads carry 1,500 ft·lb and expansion velocity for elk; the best reach 900 yd (Barnes VOR-TX LR 250 gr LRX BT). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barnes VOR-TX LR 250 gr LRX BT | 250 | 900 | 2,910 | 2,617 | yes |
| Nosler Trophy Grade 225 gr AccuBond | 225 | 750 | 2,975 | 2,334 | yes |
| Remington 250 gr Pointed Soft Point Core-Lokt | 250 | wrong bullet | 2,860 | 1,947 | behind the shoulder only |
1,500 ft·lb is the number most repeated (Guns & Ammo, Backfire); Hawks says 1,200, Boddington floats 2,000. Avoid quick-opening and match bullets. Legal: SD: ≥ .243 and 1,700 ft·lb at muzzle · CO: 1,000 ft·lb at 100 yd, ≥ 85 gr. Floor used: 1,500 ft·lb at impact plus the bullet's published expansion velocity. Orange = a target or varmint bullet (construction, not energy); red = never carries the energy. Sources: www.gunsandammo.com, www.chuckhawks.com, www.petersenshunting.com, regulations.justia.com.