Product Overview: 270 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM)

The .270 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) is a rifle cartridge introduced in 2002 by Winchester. It was developed as part of the “short magnum” family of cartridges, which aim to provide magnum-level performance in a shorter, more compact case design. The .270 WSM is based on the .300 WSM case, necked down to accept a .277-inch (7mm) bullet, maintaining the short, fat profile that is characteristic of short magnum cartridges.

Specifications

• Parent Case: .300 Winchester Short Magnum
• Bullet Diameter: 0.277 inches (7.04 mm)
• Neck Diameter: 0.315 inches (8.00 mm)
• Shoulder Diameter: 0.538 inches (13.67 mm)
• Base Diameter: 0.555 inches (14.10 mm)
• Rim Diameter: 0.535 inches (13.59 mm)
• Case Length: 2.10 inches (53.34 mm)
• Overall Length: 2.86 inches (72.64 mm)
• Case Capacity: 81 grains of H2O (approx)
• Maximum Pressure: 65,000 psi (450 MPa)

Performance

• Muzzle Velocity: Depending on the load, typical muzzle velocities range from 3,150 to 3,300 feet per second (960 to 1,010 meters per second) with 130-grain bullets.
• Muzzle Energy: Approximately 3,200 to 3,400 foot-pounds (4,300 to 4,600 Joules).

Usage

The .270 WSM is popular among hunters and shooters for its flat trajectory and powerful performance. It is particularly favored for hunting medium to large game such as deer, elk, and antelope. The cartridge’s high velocity and energy make it suitable for long-range shooting, delivering excellent accuracy and terminal ballistics.

Advantages

• High Velocity: The .270 WSM achieves higher velocities compared to the traditional .270 Winchester, resulting in a flatter trajectory.
• Shorter Action: The short, fat case design allows for a shorter action in rifles, which can result in a lighter and more compact firearm.
• Efficient Powder Burn: The cartridge design promotes efficient powder burn, which can enhance accuracy and consistency.

Disadvantages

• Barrel Wear: The high velocity and pressure can result in increased barrel wear compared to standard cartridges.
• Recoil: The .270 WSM generates more recoil than the .270 Winchester, which may be a consideration for some shooters.
• Availability: Ammunition and reloading components can be less widely available than more established calibers.

• .270 Winchester Short Magnum
• .270 WSM
• Short Magnum Cartridges
• High Velocity
• Long-Range Hunting
• Flat Trajectory
• Medium to Large Game Hunting
• Short Action Rifle
• Magnum Performance
• Rifle Cartridge

This overview provides a comprehensive look at the .270 Winchester Short Magnum, highlighting its design, specifications, performance, and typical usage scenarios. The .270 WSM is a versatile and powerful cartridge that has earned its place among modern hunting and shooting enthusiasts.