Quick Answer
Taking a long shot with a .270 on elk poses risks of bullet drop, wind deflection, and reduced kinetic energy, increasing the likelihood of a missed shot or poor bullet placement.
Ballistic Considerations
When shooting a .270 rifle at long distances, it’s essential to consider the drop of the bullet. A .270 Winchester, with a 130-grain bullet, drops approximately 15 inches at 300 yards and 35 inches at 400 yards. This drop can be mitigated with a high-quality scope and a ballistic calculator, but it’s crucial to accurately compensate for the bullet’s trajectory. A 1-inch elevation adjustment is equivalent to approximately 10 yards of range.
Wind Resistance
Wind is another critical factor to consider when taking a long shot with a .270. At 400 yards, a 10-mph wind can deflect the bullet by approximately 3 inches, while a 20-mph wind can deflect it by 6 inches. To compensate for wind deflection, use a wind deflection chart or a ballistic calculator to determine the necessary elevation adjustment.
Kinetic Energy
The kinetic energy of the bullet also decreases significantly at long distances. At 300 yards, the .270 Winchester’s kinetic energy is approximately 1,300 ft-lbs, while at 400 yards, it’s around 900 ft-lbs. This reduced energy can result in a less effective shot placement, increasing the risk of a missed shot or poor bullet placement. To mitigate this, choose a high-quality bullet designed for long-range shooting, and aim for a spot that allows for a deeper penetration.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.