Federal's Power-Shok 180-grain jacketed soft point is the heavy hitter of the .308 Winchester hunting lineup. At 2,570 fps it runs slower than the 150- and 165-grain options, but the extra 15-30 grains of bullet weight add momentum that pays off on large, tough-bodied animals. Muzzle energy is 2,640 ft-lbs, and the heavier bullet holds its energy better at distance than lighter projectiles despite the lower starting speed. This is the load to reach for when the target is elk, moose, or large black bear.

The 180-grain JSP penetrates deep. On broadside shots through an elk's rib cage, the jacketed soft point expands to roughly 1.5 times its original diameter and keeps driving forward. On quartering shots through a heavy shoulder, the extra sectional density pushes the bullet through muscle and bone that would stop lighter, faster projectiles. Weight retention is around 65-75%, which is adequate for the straight-through penetration this bullet was designed to deliver. Expect exit wounds on deer-sized game at every reasonable angle.

The trade-off is a more arched trajectory. Zeroed at 200 yards, this load drops roughly 10 inches at 300. That means you need to know your range or limit yourself to distances where holdover stays simple. Recoil is also stiffer than lighter .308 loads, so this is not the round for all-day practice sessions. Use it for confirmation shots before the season and save the volume shooting for lighter loads. For hunters in heavy timber and thick brush where shots are under 200 yards and the game is big, this round punches above the .308's usual weight class.