Description
Federal's Fusion line was designed from the ground up for hunters who want premium bullet performance without the premium price tag. This 180-grain load is built on that proven formula, using a bonded soft point that prevents jacket-core separation even under hard impacts. The construction starts with a pressure-formed lead core that gets plated with copper through an electrochemical process, bonding the two materials at a molecular level instead of just pressing them together.
The 180gr Fusion's Terminal Performance
The heavier bullet weight trades some velocity for penetration depth, making this load a solid choice when you need to punch through thicker cover or bone. You're looking at 2600 fps muzzle velocity and approximately 2700 foot-pounds of energy. The skived, pre-programmed nose initiates expansion reliably while the bonded construction keeps the bullet from fragmenting. Real-world testing shows these retain around 85-95 percent of their original weight on impact, which means deep penetration and consistent wound channels. With a 0.503 ballistic coefficient and boat tail design, the round tracks flat and accurately across typical hunting distances.
Why Bonded Bullets Matter
Traditional soft points can separate under the stress of hitting hard materials or angled shots. A bonded bullet solves that by keeping the jacket and core together, so you get the expansion you need from the soft point design without losing material in the process. That weight retention translates directly to better penetration on larger animals or when you need the bullet to drive deep. This load works well for deer and similar-sized game where penetration and reliable performance matter more than extended range.
Practical Details
You get 20 rounds per box in new brass cases with Federal's standard quality control. The round is compact at 1.21 inches and feeds reliably through most .308 Winchester rifles. If you reload, the brass is well-made and can handle multiple reloading cycles.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .308 Winchester / 7.62 NATO
- Bullet Weight: 180 grains
- Bullet Type: Fusion Soft Point (Bonded)
- Muzzle Velocity: 2600 feet per second
- Muzzle Energy: 2702 foot-pounds
- Ballistic Coefficient: 0.503
- Rounds per Box: 20
- Case Type: Brass
- Cartridge Length: 1.21 inches
- Manufacturer Part Number: F308FS3
- UPC: 029465097967
- Profile: Boat Tail
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of .308 Winchester 180 grain Federal Fusion ammunition
- Brass cases with sealed primers
- Loose packed in cardboard box
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Federal Fusion and standard soft point ammo?
Fusion uses an electrochemical bonding process that fuses the copper jacket to the lead core at a molecular level, preventing separation during impact. Standard soft points just press the lead into the copper jacket with no bond, so the core and jacket can separate and lose weight. Fusion bullets retain 85-95 percent of their weight, while unbonded soft points typically drop to 50-70 percent. That extra weight retention means deeper penetration and more reliable performance.
Is the 180 grain Fusion good for deer hunting?
The 180 grain load is effective for deer-sized game, though Federal's 150 grain Fusion is their most popular deer load because it shoots faster and flatter. The 180 will work great on deer, especially if you're taking longer-range shots or hunting areas with thick brush where extra penetration helps. It's a versatile weight that handles most medium game well.
Can I use this in an AR-10?
Yes, the .308 Winchester Fusion round will feed in most AR-10 magazines, though some AR-10 platforms are pickier with ammunition than others. If you have an AR-10, it's worth running a few rounds through to confirm reliable feeding before hunting season. The ammunition itself is standard .308 Winchester, so compatibility is usually not an issue.
How does Federal's bonding process work compared to other bonded bullets?
Federal's process electroplates the copper jacket directly onto the compressed lead core, building it molecule by molecule instead of using heat or adhesive to stick them together. This creates a more uniform jacket and a stronger bond than mechanical methods. It's not the only bonded bullet out there, but this specific electrochemical process is what makes Fusion bullets work the way they do, and it's been proven since 2005.





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