Description
The .270 WSM is one of those sweet-spot cartridges that delivers magnum-level power without requiring a magnum-length action. With the right load, you get flat trajectories and enough energy for elk-sized game without the extra recoil or bulk that come with longer actions. Hornady's Outfitter ammunition taps into that advantage with the 130-grain CX bullet, which is built to handle what backcountry hunting actually throws at you.
CX Bullet Design for Real Conditions
The CX (Copper alloy eXpanding) bullet is Hornady's upgraded take on monolithic copper hunting projectiles. Unlike traditional bullets that can separate or lose weight on impact, the one-piece copper alloy construction retains about 95% of its original mass. That weight retention matters when you're taking longer shots or pushing through heavy bone and muscle. The bullet expands reliably while penetrating deep, which translates to more ethical, faster kills. The Heat Shield tip helps maintain ballistic coefficient throughout the flight path, so your trajectory stays predictable whether you're shooting at 100 yards or stretching it to 400.
Sealed Cases Built for Storage and Weather
The cases on these rounds are nickel-plated, which isn't just for looks. Nickel resists corrosion way better than bare brass, so ammunition stored in a pack through wet seasons or left in a vehicle won't develop the green verdigris that traditional cases pick up. The primer and case mouth are sealed watertight, adding another layer of insurance that your ammo functions when you need it. If you're reloading, these nickel-plated cases will feed smoother through your dies and chamber more reliably than standard brass.
The 130-Grain Sweet Spot
For .270 WSM, the 130-grain weight is the classic choice. It's accurate, shoots reasonably flat, and carries enough energy to take deer and smaller elk out to practical hunting distances. This grain weight stays within the length constraints of short-action rifles without magazine compromises, which was the whole point of the WSM platform. At modern velocities, you're looking at genuine magnum ballistics without needing a longer barrel or heavier rifle.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .270 Winchester Short Magnum (.270 WSM)
- Bullet Weight: 130 grains
- Bullet Type: CX (Copper alloy eXpanding) monolithic
- Case Material: Nickel-plated brass
- Rounds per Box: 20
- Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing
- Manufacturer Part Number: 805574
- UPC: 090255719802
- Case Finish: Sealed primer and case mouth for waterproofing
- Weight Retention: 95%+
- Suitable For: Hunting deer, elk, and medium to large game
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of .270 WSM ammunition
- 130 grain CX bullets
- Nickel-plated brass cases with sealed primers and case mouths
Frequently Asked Questions
What game can I hunt with 130-grain .270 WSM?
The 130-grain weight in .270 WSM is well-suited for deer and similar-sized game out to 300 yards with ease. With careful shot placement and modern bullets like the CX, it'll handle elk-sized game at reasonable hunting distances, though many hunters bump up to 140 or 150-grain loads for larger animals at extended range. It's really about knowing your rifle, your load, and your own shooting ability.
Are nickel-plated cases reloadable?
Yes, nickel-plated cases are fully reloadable, and many handloaders actually prefer them. They feed smoother through your dies than standard brass and resist corrosion much better over multiple loadings. One thing to keep in mind: because nickel is slightly harder than brass, inspect your dies periodically and don't expect quite as many reloads as you'd get from standard brass, but the durability advantage often makes up for that.
What's the advantage of a monolithic CX bullet?
The CX bullet won't separate like some bonded bullets can, so you retain nearly all its weight on impact. That means deeper penetration and more reliable expansion, even if your shot isn't perfect. The one-piece design also means less fouling in your barrel compared to solid copper, and it shoots accurately at long range thanks to the Heat Shield tip that resists deformation from aerodynamic heating.
Is this ammunition California-compliant?
Yes. The CX bullet is a non-lead projectile, which makes this ammunition appropriate for areas with non-traditional bullet requirements. Hornady specifically markets the Outfitter line for hunters who need to comply with those regulations, so you can use this across different regions without worrying about legality.





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