.270 WSM

The .270 Winchester Short Magnum, often abbreviated as .270 WSM, is a high-performance centerfire rifle cartridge introduced in 2002 by Winchester Ammunition as part of the Winchester Short Magnum family. Designed to deliver the ballistic performance of the .270 Winchester in a more compact and efficient package, the .270 WSM has gained popularity among hunters and long-range shooters seeking a powerful and accurate cartridge with a shorter action and reduced overall rifle weight.


The .270 WSM features a short, fat, and rebated rim bottlenecked case that is specifically designed to optimize powder combustion and provide consistent velocities. This cartridge is based on the .300 WSM case, necked down to accept a .277-inch (7mm) diameter bullet. The .270 WSM typically utilizes bullet weights ranging from 110 to 165 grains, with muzzle velocities between 3,000 and 3,300 feet per second, depending on the specific load and bullet weight.

One of the key advantages of the .270 WSM is its high ballistic coefficient and sectional density, which result in a flat trajectory, excellent wind resistance, and deep penetration capabilities. These characteristics make the cartridge well-suited for taking down medium to large-sized game, such as deer, antelope, elk, and moose, at extended ranges, while offering slightly reduced recoil compared to magnum cartridges with similar performance.

While primarily a hunting cartridge, the .270 WSM has also found a niche among long-range target shooters and competitors due to its inherent accuracy and consistency. The cartridge’s performance can be further enhanced with the use of modern bullet designs and propellants.

Factory-loaded ammunition for the .270 WSM is available from several manufacturers, providing a variety of bullet types and weights to suit different hunting and shooting applications. Handloaders can also find a wide selection of .277 caliber bullets, brass, and reloading data to customize their ammunition to their specific needs and preferences.

In conclusion, the .270 Winchester Short Magnum is a powerful, accurate, and efficient cartridge that offers hunters and long-range shooters a compact alternative to the traditional .270 Winchester without sacrificing performance. Its flat trajectory, reduced recoil, and impressive terminal performance make it a viable choice for a variety of applications, from hunting to precision shooting.

Showing all 8 results