338 Federal in long action 700?

[Veno]

I have a donated to me rem 700 long action. I'd like to build a 338 federal with a 16" barrel to take when I'm in the field (surveying) for alligators, Mtn lions and such. I also have a used B&C mountain lightweight stock (1lb 12 oz) for a 700 LA ADL that I'd like to use. Will the 338 Federal work out alright in the long action? Is there a better round out there for what I need (lightest weight, 16" barrel) using the long action? I am new to the rifle scene and need help with this.

Also have a donated Bushnell elite 2-7x32 I could mount if I ever decided to start hunting.

Thank you.

 

[Hoth206]

I don't think there'd be a problem...but it would seem like a .35 whelen would be a better "fit" for that action. If you're going to have the extra length...may as well have the extra "umph".

 

[matt 7mm]

338 federal seems like a good choice for what you want.you dont need a long action but there is no reason it wont work.you could us a 35 whelen or 338-06 as long as you have a long action but if you only want a 16 inch barrel the federal would probably be just as good

 

[Veno]

Thanks for the suggestions, they are much appreciated.

 

[GooseGestapo]

The ballistics are much better on the .338 than a .358 because the sectional density of the bullets is better. I've got a .358, .35Rem, a .338/06, and a .338MarlinExpress, so I do have considerable experience with the cartridges. Under 100yds, the difference in moot, at longer distances the .338/06 will win out every time.
I've got a .338/06 and I think you couldn't go wrong with it, except for a lack of factory loaded ammo. I've not ever seen a box of factory loaded ammo except online.

However, for what you are wanting to do, I'd suggest a .308 or .30/06. Ubiquitous ammo availability. Also, for much less money, a l/a .30/30 would be even better.

What caliber is the M700 action now? If a .30/06 or similar, I'd leave well enough alone. Get ammo and shoot!
A 2x-7x is plenty of scope unless you are shooting ground hogs or p-dogs at extended ranges.

For your intended use, a .223 or even a .22wrm will suffice. A lighter handier rifle will be appreciated as you will carry it much, and shoot little....

 

[rori]

I don't think much of the 16" barrel with any of these calibers!!!! Why not leave it at 20" and make it a 35 Whelen? OR if its already a 3006 leave it the way it is and shorten it to 20" if that makes you happy. It would be nice to know what caliber it is now. FRJ

 

[Veno]

It's just the action, no barrel yet. Just trying to get something that would be the least cumbersome to tote around with other equip and tripod I'm already dodging branches with. Seems like 16" would work out better than 20" for toting around. From what I've researched, the 338 federal seems to be the best 16" barrel option, the other calibers seem to be a waste out of a 16" barrel. I don't reload either, so I'd be buying factory ammo.

Thanks again

 

[kludge]

Ruger Redhawk .45 Colt 4".

Or if you really want to a tight package... Charter Arms Bulldog .44 SPL.

And use the action for some other purpose. JMO.

 

[sage5907]

Veno, on Gunbroker.com there are several used Model 700 Remington 22 inch 30-06 barrels for about $50. You're going to have to pay a gunsmith to headspace the barrel when its installed so you could have him cut the length back to 20 inches. That's a cheap way to get a rifle based on the parts that you have. Probably a more practical solution would be to buy a Ruger Hawkeye in 338 Federal caliber for around $400. The stainless steel receiver and barrel with its composite stock should be great for you. BW

 

[Veno]

Shooter 5907, thanks for he info. The Ruger looks like its going to be the route I'm going to take. Didn't realize how much putting a barrel onto an action costs. Maybe down the road, I'll use the 700 action for something else.

Thanks again to all!