.270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor
Examining the .270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor reveals two popular hunting cartridges representing different generations of rifle cartridge design. The .270 Winchester (130gr Extreme Point at 3060 fps) delivers substantially higher energy, maintaining 2516 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the 6.5mm Creedmoor's (125gr Extreme Point at 2850 fps) 2121 ft-lbs. Both cartridges demonstrate substantial penetration for hunting applications, with the .270 Winchester reaching 45.8-46.2 inches and the 6.5mm Creedmoor achieving 36.1-36.4 inches, both well beyond defensive requirements. The recoil comparison significantly favors the 6.5mm Creedmoor, generating 16.95 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the .270's 25.01 ft-lbs. While the .270 Winchester provides higher velocity and energy, the 6.5mm Creedmoor's superior ballistic coefficient and reduced recoil make it increasingly attractive for precision shooting and hunters seeking excellent long-range performance with less punishment. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical hunting loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.270 Winchester Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
6.5mm Creedmoor Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .270 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
Try Our Ballistics Calculators
Want to calculate exact trajectories for these calibers with your specific loads?
.270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .270 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .270 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
Notes:
- FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
- Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
- Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors
.270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .270 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.270 Winchester Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
Notes:
- Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
- Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
- Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
- Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design
.270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .270 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.270 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .270 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.