Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Federal Premium 300 WSM Barnes TSX load delivers the short-magnum ballistics hunters expect from 300 Winchester Short Magnum — 2980 fps and 3549 ft-lbs at the muzzle — in a lead-free projectile that meets hunt-area restrictions without sacrificing terminal performance. The 180-grain Barnes Triple-Shock X bullet is machined from a single copper billet, eliminating core separation and ensuring the projectile holds together through heavy bone and dense muscle. On impact, the deep hollow point opens into four cutting petals that channel tissue while the shank drives forward. Weight retention averages 99-100%, and penetration depths routinely exceed lead-core equivalents in the same weight class. Federal Premium pairs the Barnes projectile with temperature-stable powder metered for consistency across production lots, nickel-plated brass that feeds reliably in short-action magazines, and non-corrosive Boxer primers. Each case is reloadable, and the brass accepts standard large-rifle primers. Twenty rounds ship per box.
Performance at a Glance
The Barnes Triple-Shock X belongs to the original TSX family — the predecessor to the TTSX that added a polymer tip. The hollow-point cavity in this 180-grain projectile initiates expansion at impact velocities above 1800 fps, and the four grooves machined into the bearing surface reduce copper fouling while improving accuracy. Federal Premium manufactures this ammunition in Anoka, Minnesota. The G1 ballistic coefficient of 0.453 keeps the 180-grain slug supersonic past 800 yards in standard atmospheric conditions, and the flat trajectory of the 300 WSM chambering extends practical hunting range on medium to large game.
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 300 Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) |
| Bullet weight | 180 grains |
| Bullet type | Solid Hollow Point (Barnes Triple-Shock X) |
| Muzzle velocity | 2980 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 3549 ft-lbs |
| G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.453 |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer, non-corrosive |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead-free | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Federal Premium |
This load suits elk, moose, and large-bodied deer at ranges where the 300 WSM maintains velocity advantage over standard .30-06 Springfield. The monolithic copper construction and near-total weight retention make the 180-grain TSX effective on shoulder shots and quartering-away angles where bone penetration determines recovery. For more 300 WSM ammo options across bullet weights and styles, review the full lineup.
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.
- Observe the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, keep muzzle pointed in a safe direction, finger off trigger until ready to fire, know your target and what lies beyond.
- Verify current state and local ammunition laws before purchase — some jurisdictions restrict lead-free or hollow-point ammunition types.
- Store ammunition separately from firearms in a locked container — lead-free copper projectiles do not eliminate all Proposition 65 exposure risks during handling and firing.
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