We are happy (and proud) to announce that factory loaded .338 Spectre ammunition is now available from Reed's Ammunition and Research (
www.reedsammo.com) Ron has developed a number of loads using our 12.5/4.5 T&E upper that cycle the shorter barrel/gas system without an issue. Loads range from 160 gr up to 300 gr subsonics and Ron reports excellent accuracy and energy retention.
Having read an article casting doubt on the .300 Whisper's ability to tumble with subsonic loads, Ron did ballistic gel tests that unequivocally put the debate to rest. With the 250 gr loads, tumbling occurred after as little as 6 - 8" of penetration and the projectile penetrated a full 24" before lodging against the back stop. All this with SUBSONIC velocity.
I do not have pictures of the 300 gr load tests but Ron reported that they started tumbling IMMEDIATELY upon striking the target.
The "sales pitch" and pictures follow below
The cartridge has a wide array of applications Including small to medium game hunting, match target, and suppressed sniper shooting.
In November of 2005 Reed's Ammunition & Research got together with Mr. ter Weeme to expand the load data and look at commercial production of the ammunition.
After a bit of R&D we found that there are several powders that work very well, consisting of the slower magnum pistol powders and fast burning rifle powders. With it's ability to launch a wide array of bullet weights combined with it almost non-existent recoil and extreme accuracy, the .338 Spectre offers something for everyone.
Ballistic performance is comparable to the .357 Herrett, .35 Remington or even the 180-grain load for the .44 Magnum. In the 16" barrel carbine, the .338 Spectre will launch the 180-grain BT at 1,800 ft./sec., approaching 1,300 ft-lbs. of energy. By loading the 300-grain Sierra HPBT MatchKing bullet at subsonic velocities (1,040 ft/sec.) for suppressed applications, the muzzle energy measures 720 ft-lbs., surpassing both the high velocity 115-grain load for the 9mm Parabellum as well as the 240-grain .300 Whisper ® load.
For the sportsman, the .338 Spectre offers a user-friendly cartridge in terms of brass forming and reloading, with light recoil and excellent performance on small to medium size game.
For the law enforcement professional, it offers solid terminal ballistics from one of the most-widely used weapons platforms with minor modification. The wide range of available projectiles should appeal to both the recreational shooter as well as the professional. Reloading dies for the .338 Spectre can be obtained from CH Tool and Die (www.CH4D.com).
Loaded ammunition is available through Reed’s Ammunition & Research.(www.reedsammo.com)