Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL $9.60 Off Review

Breaking Down My First Experience with the Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL

My search for the Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL began with a specific need: to push the performance envelope of a newly acquired Weatherby rifle chambered in the .338 RPM. I was looking for ammunition that would maximize the cartridge’s potential for both velocity and terminal ballistics, something that could reliably take on larger game at extended ranges. My previous experience with Weatherby’s innovative designs had set a high bar, and I was eager to see if this factory offering lived up to the promise of the .338 RPM.

The initial impression of this ammunition was one of contained power. The brass casing felt substantial, and the weight of the 225-grain Hornady Interlock bullet was immediately apparent. It’s not often you encounter a factory load that feels so perfectly matched to its intended cartridge, especially one as specialized as the .338 RPM. I had considered handloading for this rifle, but the convenience and known quality of a factory load from a reputable manufacturer like Weatherby with a proven bullet like the Hornady Interlock were compelling.

My first reaction was a quiet confidence. This wasn’t just another box of bullets; it felt like a deliberate engineering solution for a performance-oriented cartridge.

Real-World Testing: Putting Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this ammunition were the familiar confines of my local outdoor shooting range, followed by a more demanding scenario in the rugged terrain of my favorite hunting grounds. I tested these rounds in a Weatherby Mark V rifle specifically built for the .338 RPM, ensuring the rifle’s unique characteristics were fully leveraged. The ammunition performed exceptionally well in varying conditions, from crisp autumn mornings to damp, cool afternoons, demonstrating consistent cycling and reliable ignition.

Ease of use is inherent with factory ammunition, and this load was no exception. It fed smoothly from the magazine and ejected cleanly without any hiccups, allowing me to focus solely on accuracy and shot placement. The only surprise, and it was a pleasant one, was the remarkably consistent point of impact across different temperatures, suggesting excellent quality control from Weatherby.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of rigorous testing, including numerous range sessions and a successful hunting trip, this Weatherby ammunition continues to impress. It has held up remarkably well under repeated use, showing no signs of degradation or performance drop-off. The brass casings still look pristine, and the bullets remain seated firmly.

Durability is a given with quality ammunition, and these rounds exhibit excellent resilience. I’ve experienced no issues with cracks, stiffness, or compromised performance, even after being stored and handled extensively. Maintenance is straightforward; keeping the ammunition in its original packaging in a cool, dry environment is all that’s required.

Compared to my previous experiences with budget-tier ammunition, this load from Weatherby offers a significantly higher level of consistency and reliability. It performs on par with premium handloads, offering peace of mind for critical situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL

Specifications

This ammunition features a 225-grain Hornady Interlock bullet, a design known for its controlled expansion and deep penetration, making it ideal for larger game. The cartridge utilizes a rebated rim to fit within the Weatherby 6-lug action, a smart design choice that maximizes case capacity within a standard-length action. The brass cased construction ensures reliable feeding and extraction, a standard but crucial element for any centerfire rifle round.

The .338 Weatherby Rebated Precision Magnum caliber is designed for high performance, and the stated muzzle velocity of 2800 ft/s with this specific load translates to impressive downrange energy. This velocity, combined with the bullet’s weight and ballistic coefficient of 0.397, delivers 3917 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, signifying substantial power for tackling formidable game. The package contains 20 rounds per box, a standard count for premium hunting ammunition.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this ammunition is to deliver accurate, potent, and reliable terminal performance, and it excels in every regard. The Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock performs exceptionally well, providing consistent accuracy that allowed for precise shot placement at various distances. The Hornady Interlock bullet consistently demonstrated controlled expansion and sufficient weight retention, translating into effective wound channels on game.

The strengths of this ammunition lie in its superb accuracy, the predictable terminal ballistics of the 225-grain Interlock bullet, and its exceptional consistency. A minor point for consideration, though not a significant weakness, is that the .338 RPM is a specialized cartridge, meaning ammunition availability might be less widespread than more common calibers. However, for its intended purpose, it more than meets, and in many aspects exceeds, expectations for a factory load.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this ammunition is fundamentally about maximizing ballistic potential within the constraints of the .338 RPM cartridge. The brass casing offers a smooth, reliable surface for feeding and extraction, crucial for rapid follow-up shots if necessary. The Hornady Interlock bullet, with its interlock ring, is designed to prevent core-jacket separation, ensuring deep penetration and reliable expansion even on tougher targets.

The rebated rim design is a clever engineering solution that allows for greater powder capacity compared to traditional cartridges of similar overall length. This contributes directly to the high velocities and energy figures. While ergonomics aren’t typically a term applied to ammunition in the same way as a firearm, the consistency in bullet seating and overall case construction instills confidence.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability for ammunition, we are primarily concerned with its shelf life and ability to withstand normal handling and storage. This Weatherby ammunition is built to last, and I expect it to perform reliably for many years under proper storage conditions. The brass casings are corrosion-resistant, and the sealant used at the case mouth and primer pocket further enhances its longevity.

Maintenance for ammunition is minimal; proper storage in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight is paramount. I have not encountered any specific failure points with this particular load. Its robust construction suggests it is built for demanding hunting conditions and will hold up well in a rifle magazine.

Accessories and Customization Options

As ammunition, this product comes as a self-contained unit, and there are no direct “accessories” in the traditional sense. However, the 20-round box it comes in is a practical package for transport and storage, keeping the rounds organized and protected. The Hornady Interlock bullet itself is a highly regarded component, and while this is a factory load, it represents a specific, well-chosen bullet construction for the cartridge.

The primary “customization” for this ammunition is selecting the right rifle and scope combination to maximize its potential. The .338 RPM cartridge is designed to work optimally within rifles built around Weatherby’s 6-lug action, leveraging its case capacity and ballistic capabilities. For those seeking to further tailor performance, handloading would be the avenue, but this factory load offers a superb starting point.

Pros and Cons of Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL

Who Should Buy Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL?

This ammunition is ideal for hunters who own a rifle chambered in .338 RPM and are targeting large, dangerous game such as elk, moose, or bear, where deep penetration and significant energy transfer are critical. It’s also an excellent choice for shooters who prioritize accuracy and reliability in their hunting or long-range shooting endeavors and appreciate the advantages of factory-loaded ammunition from a reputable manufacturer. Anyone looking to maximize the performance of their Weatherby .338 RPM rifle without delving into handloading will find this load to be a superb option.

Those who should likely skip this product are individuals who do not own a rifle chambered in .338 RPM or those who are looking for budget-friendly ammunition for varmint hunting or casual plinking, where its power and price point would be excessive. For those new to the .338 RPM cartridge, starting with this factory load is a wise decision to understand its capabilities before considering any custom loads. A quality rifle scope is a must-have accessory to pair with this ammunition to fully exploit its accuracy potential.

Conclusion on Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL

Overall, the Weatherby Select Plus .338 RPM 225 Grain Hornady Interlock Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition H338225IL is an outstanding factory load that perfectly complements the innovative .338 RPM cartridge. It delivers on its promise of high velocity, impressive energy, and exceptional accuracy, all wrapped in a package designed for reliable terminal performance on large game. The build quality and consistency are evident from the first shot, making it a confidence-inspiring choice for serious hunters.

Considering its specialized nature and premium performance, the price is justified by the quality of components and the meticulous manufacturing process employed by Weatherby. I would unequivocally recommend this ammunition to anyone who owns a .338 RPM rifle and demands the best from their firearm and ammunition. If you’re looking for a factory-loaded solution that truly unlocks the potential of the .338 RPM, this is undoubtedly it.