Well maybe the .270 WSM isnot a whole lot more, butthen again it justmight be.From what Ihavefound, from different loads actualy shot through a crony, by myself and others who post the info online.The average is around 300 f/s faster accross the range of bullet weights for the WSM. That is with both .270's having equal 24" barrels.The problem ismost .270 win barrels are22" long compared to 23" orthe standard 24" for the WSM. So that might make the spread closer to 400 f/s withthe same bullets.Now consider this a regular 30-06 shoots a .180 grain bullet between 2700 to 2800 f/s.On the other hand a .300 Win Mag shoots the same 180 grain bullet between3000 and 3100 f/s. Again the spred is only 300 f/s between these two! But yet ask anyone off the street/gun shop, at the range or evenonline,what the difference between these two cartridges are?More than likley people will tell you that it is a huge difference and the .300 Win Mag has way morerange and power. So that is why I say the .270 WSM ismorepower and range over the regular .270 win. In actuality it might not kill an elk any more dead, but I do believe it will extend a hunters range. With a accurate .270 (regular) and a competant shooter I believethat combo will kill elk all day longat a maxrange of up to 400-450 yards. Beyond thatand I believe the .270 lacks the KE needed to bring down a elk. Sure it can be done as I proved as ateenagehunter, but man did I feel like I was shooting a BB gun when Ifound out I hit the young bull five times. Thoses 5 shots were all good chest vital hits I mightadd! Like I said I knowing what I know now Iwound not take that shot again with a regular .270.Nowon the other hand I believe theWSM 270with its 300 f/s faster bullets can and will get the job done on a elkout to 500-550 maxyards if needs be. IMO thats a whole lot more if you were to ask me.