Thread: .270WSM Experiences?

EDepends entirely on what bullet you're using. 1800fps won't work for a monolithic, a fully bonded bullet with no cavity and a thick jacket, or some of the mechanically locked bullet designs.

You won't get any argument from me on using numbers to set practical limits - very good idea - but the numbers mustn't be arbitrary, they must be considered relative to the bullet design and the target animal.

In the .270WSM, if you're intending to use it as a longer range cartridge, choose a bullet specific to the application and work on a minimum expansion threshold specified by the manufacturer. A simple question to the manufacturer will usually give you the number you need. The only proper long range bullet I would consider for the .270WSM is 150gr Accubond LR. They list 1300fps as a minimum expansion velocity and I know from experience that they sure as hell work in the 1500-1550fps window having shot long range goats with this bullet. Poleaxer of note. I'd be happy with the ELD-X as long as I wasn't dropping below about 1800fps.

An interesting test for all you Berger fans...

https://www.fieldandstream.com/long-range-shootout/

The problem with the .270 calibre and particularly for the WSM as a long-range option, is the relative lack of high BC but soft bullet options. No TMK, no ELD-M. That's a problem.

After years of mulling over the energy debate I concluded that minimum expansion velocity is the primary consideration. I've killed a few animals with a broadhead arrow, and stabbed a fair few pigs with a knife, and they were all very dead without a great deal of energy involved... for me it's about adequate penetration but more importantly ensuring that the bullet opens and ideally partially fragments.