Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Federal Premium 270 Winchester 145 grain Hornady ELD-X ammo pairs match-grade accuracy with controlled expansion across a wide velocity window. The 270 Winchester cartridge, introduced in 1925 by Winchester Repeating Arms, remains one of the most versatile hunting rounds for medium to large game at ranges where ballistic coefficient and retained energy matter. This Federal Premium load pushes a 145-grain Hornady ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag-eXpanding) polymer-tip projectile to 2890 feet per second, delivering 2689 foot-pounds of muzzle energy and a flat trajectory out to 400 yards. Federal Premium manufactures ammunition in Anoka, Minnesota, holding both ISO 9001 certification and military contract pedigree.
Load Profile
The Hornady ELD-X bullet features a secant ogive profile, a heat-resistant polymer tip that resists deformation in the magazine and initiates expansion on impact, and a concentric copper jacket over a bonded lead core. The 0.536 G1 ballistic coefficient keeps the bullet supersonic past 800 yards in standard atmospheric conditions, and the 0.27 sectional density ensures deep penetration on elk, mule deer, and caribou. Federal loads this round with temperature-stable propellant in nickel-plated brass cases — Boxer-primed, non-corrosive, reloadable. Each case is visually inspected during manufacture. Nickel plating reduces friction during feeding and resists tarnish in humid climates.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 270 Winchester |
| Bullet weight | 145 grains |
| Bullet type | Hornady ELD-X polymer tip |
| Muzzle velocity | 2890 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 2689 ft-lbs |
| G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.536 |
| Sectional density | 0.27 |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
This load sits in the middle of the 270 Winchester weight range — light enough for flat trajectory on pronghorn across prairie draws, heavy enough to anchor bull elk in dark timber at 300 yards. Shop our full selection of 270 ammo for additional grain weights and bullet profiles.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Follow the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as if loaded, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, finger off the trigger until ready to fire, be certain of your target and what is beyond it.
- Verify current state and local ammunition laws before ordering — some jurisdictions restrict lead projectiles, limit purchase quantities, or require background checks for ammunition sales.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands thoroughly after handling ammunition or spent casings. Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling ammunition.
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