.270 Caliber vs. .308 Caliber

Attribute	.270 Caliber	.308 Caliber
Caliber Size	.270	.308
Bullet Weight Range	90-150 grains	150-180 grains
Velocity	High	Medium
Recoil	Less	More
Accuracy	High	High

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a rifle caliber for hunting or target shooting, two popular options that often come up are the .270 caliber and the .308 caliber. Both of these calibers have their own unique attributes that make them suitable for different purposes. In this article, we will compare the characteristics of the .270 caliber and the .308 caliber to help you make an informed decision on which one is right for you.

Ballistics

One of the key differences between the .270 caliber and the .308 caliber is their ballistics. The .270 caliber typically has a flatter trajectory and higher velocity compared to the .308 caliber. This means that the .270 caliber is better suited for long-range shooting and is less affected by wind drift. On the other hand, the .308 caliber has a heavier bullet with more energy, making it better for taking down larger game at shorter distances.

Recoil

Another important factor to consider when choosing between the .270 caliber and the .308 caliber is recoil. The .270 caliber generally has less recoil compared to the .308 caliber due to its lighter bullet weight. This makes the .270 caliber more comfortable to shoot for extended periods of time, especially for those who are sensitive to recoil. On the other hand, the .308 caliber has more recoil, which may be a consideration for some shooters, particularly those with smaller frames.

Ammunition Availability

When it comes to ammunition availability, the .308 caliber has a slight edge over the .270 caliber. The .308 caliber is a more popular and widely used round, which means that it is easier to find in stores and has a wider variety of bullet options available. On the other hand, the .270 caliber may be a bit more challenging to find in some locations, especially in rural areas or smaller gun shops. However, with the rise in popularity of the .270 caliber in recent years, this gap is narrowing.

Accuracy

Both the .270 caliber and the .308 caliber are known for their accuracy, but they excel in different ways. The .270 caliber is often praised for its long-range accuracy and flat trajectory, making it a favorite among long-range shooters and hunters. On the other hand, the .308 caliber is known for its consistency and reliability at shorter distances, making it a popular choice for tactical shooters and hunters who prefer to stalk their prey at closer ranges.

Stopping Power

When it comes to stopping power, the .308 caliber has the edge over the .270 caliber. The .308 caliber typically has a heavier bullet with more energy, which translates to better penetration and knockdown power. This makes the .308 caliber a better choice for hunting larger game such as deer, elk, or bear. On the other hand, the .270 caliber is still a capable round for hunting medium-sized game, but may not have the same stopping power as the .308 caliber.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the .270 caliber and the .308 caliber have their own unique attributes that make them suitable for different shooting purposes. The .270 caliber is known for its flat trajectory and long-range accuracy, while the .308 caliber is praised for its stopping power and versatility. When choosing between the two calibers, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific shooting needs of the individual. Whether you are a long-range shooter, a hunter, or a tactical shooter, both the .270 caliber and the .308 caliber have something to offer.