What load/bullet combo for using .270 as a varmit rifle?

ThreeThumbs · 12-31-2003, 10:35 AM

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I have a Winchester Mod. 70 in 270 cal. and have been extremely pleased with it over the years for everything I've ever used it for. Now, I'd like to do some plinking at local fox, jacks, etc. and can't see going out to buy a new rifle when I already own a great one. So, kind experts, can comeone tell me what would be a good load/bullet combo for varmits with the 270??? Something with a flat trajectory, yet packing enuf whallop to down 'em at 150 to 250 yds.

ThreeThumbs ( don't ask )

Superpig · 12-31-2003, 11:56 AM

When I was growing up my Dad had the same thinking as you. I do not know the powder he used but he used the Speer 90 gr. TNT HP exclusively for predator hunting. Mostly coyotes on the ranch he worked on. One word of caution is you are hunting for pelts damage will be extreme with this bullet. Also he had a Win. Mod. 70 Featherweight in 270 and used it exclusively for years the 90 gr. for varmints and the 130 gr. SBT for deer. Unfortunately he lost the rifle in a cabin fire a few years back and replaced it with a 25-06. Good Hunting!

eldeguello · 01-08-2004, 06:06 AM

I used to use the 110 Sierra in mine with 58 grains of IMR 4350. Never chronographed this load, but it was so fast I could see a big hole pop through a porcupine at 200 yards before the recoil pushed the scope off the target!!

akbound · 01-09-2004, 07:56 AM

Hi ThreeThumbs,

It's been years since I've used a .270 Winchester for varminting. The last time I did I handloaded some 90 grain Hollow Points from Sierra, (don't even know offhand if they still offer that bullet). They shot plenty accurate for me out of a Voere that 300 yards and more on woodchucks were within easy range. But as was stated about the Speer TNT's.....don't expect to save many pelts! (Actually what you have left looks like it has been dressed, butchered, and skinned......but nearly so neatly!)

Good luck with your search!

MOTurkeyTamer · 01-09-2004, 07:07 PM

I have used the Sierra 110 grs. out of my .270 before. They will work great, but like akbound said, you don't want to use the .270 if you're out for the fur!