Winchester loads the 170-grain Power-Point at 2200 feet per second, generating 1827 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. This heavier bullet weight represents the traditional choice for .30-30 hunters who prioritize penetration over trajectory. The Power-Point's exposed lead tip with notched jacket initiates controlled expansion on impact, while the flat-nose profile remains safe for tubular magazines found on lever-action rifles.

The 170-grain load distinguishes itself through momentum. Heavier bullets carry their energy more efficiently through tissue, and this extra mass proves valuable when shots present at less-than-ideal angles. Quartering shots that might challenge lighter bullets become manageable, as the additional weight helps the Power-Point hold its path through muscle and bone. The 0.241 ballistic coefficient, while modest, actually outperforms many flat-nose designs in this caliber.

Whitetail hunters in timber country will find this load well-matched to their conditions. The .30-30's effective range rarely exceeds 150 yards in thick cover, and at those distances the 170-grain's trajectory disadvantage compared to 150-grain loads amounts to an inch or two—easily compensated for with a proper zero. Black bear hunters working dense timber also favor this weight, as the combination of controlled expansion and deep penetration handles tough hide and heavy muscle effectively.