Description
Federal Premium Terminal Ascent .270 WSM ammunition combines two things that have historically been tough to merge into one round: the precision of a match-style bullet with the reliable, hard-hitting performance of a bonded hunting bullet. That balance is exactly what you need when hunting situations can vary wildly from a close-quarters encounter to extended-range opportunities.
Terminal Ascent Construction and Bonding Technology
What sets this round apart starts with the bullet itself. The lead core is chemically bonded directly to a solid copper shank that runs the length of the projectile. This bonded construction means the bullet won't separate under impact stress, whether that impact happens at close range or after a long-distance flight. You're getting deep, consistent penetration paired with excellent weight retention. That matters because premium hunting ammunition has to perform whether your quarry is 30 yards or 300 yards away.
Slipstream Polymer Tip and Long-Range Expansion
Federal engineered the Slipstream tip to initiate expansion at velocities roughly 200 fps lower than comparable designs. Inside the polymer is a hollow cavity that, upon impact, allows fluid to enter and build pressure for controlled expansion even at reduced velocities. This design philosophy means you won't get blown-up bullets at close range or failed expansion at distance. The tip itself uses a small, flat meplat design that minimizes drag during flight without sacrificing the structural integrity needed for reliable performance.
AccuChannel Grooves and Ballistic Performance
AccuChannel grooves cut into the bullet shank serve a dual purpose. Traditional grooves improve accuracy and reduce barrel fouling, but they also increase drag and hurt ballistic coefficient. Federal's engineers discovered that with fewer grooves and a gentler slope rather than the typical 90-degree cut, they could retain the accuracy benefits without compromising long-range performance. Combined with the bullet's sleek profile and optimized boat-tail angle, this round delivers the flat trajectory and wind-bucking performance the .270 WSM is known for.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .270 Winchester Short Magnum
- Bullet Weight: 136 grains
- Muzzle Velocity: 3240 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 3170 lb-ft
- Ballistic Coefficient: 0.508
- Bullet Type: Terminal Ascent Bonded
- Case Material: Nickel-Plated Brass
- Primer: Boxer
- Rounds Per Box: 20
- Bullet Length: 1.354 inches
- Manufacturer: Federal Premium Ammunition
- Model Number: P270WSMTA1
- UPC: 604544659375
- Intended Use: Big Game Hunting
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of Federal Terminal Ascent .270 WSM 136gr ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Slipstream polymer tip different from other polymer-tipped hunting rounds?
The Slipstream tip features a hollow core inside the polymer that allows fluid to enter upon impact and build pressure for controlled expansion, even at lower velocities. This unique hollow-cavity design initiates expansion around 200 fps slower than comparable bullets, making the Terminal Ascent effective whether you're shooting at close range or pushing 600+ yards. The polymer itself is heat-resistant and won't deform during flight, breaking free only on impact.
Will this ammunition work well for both short-range and long-range hunting situations?
Yes. The bonded lead core and solid copper shank provide deep penetration and 90 percent weight retention even at close-range, high-velocity impacts. At the same time, the Slipstream tip and optimized ballistic coefficient mean reliable expansion at lower impact velocities downrange. This combination lets you confidently take shots from 30 yards to 600+ yards without worrying about the bullet either failing to expand or over-expanding.
What is AccuChannel groove technology, and why does it matter?
AccuChannel grooves are cut into the bullet shank with a sloped design rather than the traditional 90-degree cut. This reduces barrel wear, improves accuracy across a range of rifles, and minimizes wind drag during flight without sacrificing ballistic coefficient like conventional grooves do. It's a refinement that gives you the accuracy benefits of grooved bullets while maintaining the flat trajectory and extended-range capability you expect from Terminal Ascent ammunition.
Is the .270 WSM suitable for elk hunting at longer ranges?
The .270 WSM performs well for deer hunting out to 600 yards and elk hunting out to about 500 yards under most conditions. With a quality bonded bullet like Terminal Ascent, which maintains energy and penetration across varying ranges, your success depends more on shot placement, rifle accuracy, and your ability as a hunter. The 136-grain load provides solid velocity and energy for these hunting scenarios when matched with proper shot execution.





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