.348 Win. Load Data

Introduced by Winchester in 1936, the .348 Winchester cartridge was specifically designed for the iconic Winchester Model 71 lever-action rifle. Its development came at a time when hunters demanded more power and range from lever-action rifles, which traditionally used cartridges considered underpowered for large game. The.348 Win. was one of the most powerful rimmed cartridges ever developed for a lever-action platform, filling the gap between older black powder-based rounds and the emerging high-velocity, flat-shooting bolt-action cartridges. Its innovative design allowed lever-action enthusiasts access to performance previously reserved for bolt-action rifles, ensuring its place in American firearms traditions throughout the mid-20th century.

Even though production of the Model 71 ceased in 1958, the .348 Winchester has maintained a solid following among reloaders and vintage firearm collectors. Its reputation for reliable feeding and hard-hitting performance has cemented it as a favorite for those who pursue big game with classic rifles. While commercial ammunition is less common today, the cartridge enjoys a resurgence among reloaders who appreciate the blend of nostalgia, ballistic performance, and the unique challenges presented by sourcing and loading for discontinued calibers. In the modern context, handloading not only lets shooters tailor loads to their specific rifles, but also ensures a continuing supply of ammunition for these storied lever-actions.

As for field applications, the .348 Winchester is best known as a big game cartridge, excelling in North American hunting scenarios including deer, black bear, elk, and even moose at moderate ranges. Its authoritative energy makes it well-suited for brush country where shots are often taken at closer distances and quick second shots via a lever-action can be vital. The relatively heavy bullet weights and the rapid cycling action of the Model 71 combine to create a formidable package for thick woods hunts or tracking large, tough animals. Some adventurous hunters have even relied on the .348 Winchester for Canadian bear hunts and in Alaska, where both penetration and stopping power are paramount.

Target species for the .348 Win. notably include larger deer (such as mule deer and whitetails), black bear, elk, and moose. It is especially appreciated by hunters operating in dense forests, steep terrain, or areas with the possibility of encountering game at less than 200 yards. The cartridge’s stopping power, along with the reliability of the lever-action rifles that chamber it, makes it a confidence-inspiring choice in challenging hunting environments. Its effectiveness, however, is typically limited by its moderate trajectory compared to modern magnums, so most hunters and reloaders consider it ideal for medium-range work rather than long-distance shooting.

The typical bullet weights for the .348 Winchester are 150, 200, and 250 grains, with the 200-grain load being the most favored and widely available, at least when factory ammunition was in regular production. This range gives reloaders versatility in tailoring loads for specific game or shooting preferences. The cartridge itself boasts a rimmed, bottleneck design ideal for reliable feeding in tubular magazines, and its case capacity supports substantial powder charges for impressive velocity and energy by lever-action standards. With a nominal bullet diameter of .348 inches and a reputation for deep penetration and controlled expansion, the .348 Winchester remains a classic choice—especially for reloaders who enjoy extracting maximum performance from legendary lever-action rifles.