.260 Remington: Another Dead Caliber or a Viable Option for Mid-Sized Game Hunting?

The .260 Remington, introduced in 1997, has often been overshadowed by its more popular relatives, such as the .308 Winchester and the 6.5 Creedmoor. But is it fair to label this caliber as another dead round, or does it hold its own as a viable option for mid-sized game hunting? In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of the .260 Remington, explore specific products, and determine whether it deserves a spot in your hunting arsenal.

1. Understanding the .260 Remington: What Makes It Unique?

The .260 Remington, also known as the 6.5-08 A-Square, is a member of the 6.5mm family. It was designed by necking down a .308 Winchester case to accept a 6.5mm bullet. This creates a cartridge with an excellent balance of speed, accuracy, and recoil, making it suitable for mid-sized game hunting.

Key Specifications:

• Bullet Diameter: .264 inches (6.5mm)
• Case Length: 2.035 inches
• Overall Length: 2.8 inches
• Maximum Pressure: 60,000 psi

What sets the .260 Remington apart is its high ballistic coefficient (BC) and sectional density. These factors contribute to its ability to maintain energy over long distances, making it effective for hunting in varied terrain and conditions.

2. Ballistic Performance: How Does the .260 Remington Stack Up?

One of the major selling points of the .260 Remington is its ballistic performance. It offers a flat trajectory and retains energy well, making it a solid choice for hunters targeting mid-sized game like deer, antelope, and wild boar.

Comparison with Other Calibers:

• .260 Remington vs. .308 Winchester: The .308 Winchester is known for its stopping power and versatility, but it comes with more recoil. The .260 Remington offers similar ballistics with less recoil, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
• .260 Remington vs. 6.5 Creedmoor: The 6.5 Creedmoor has gained massive popularity for its long-range capabilities. However, the .260 Remington is similar in performance and often more available in certain regions, especially for handloaders.

Specific Ammunition Options:

• Hornady Precision Hunter 143gr ELD-X: Known for its excellent terminal performance, this ammo is ideal for mid-sized game hunting, providing deep penetration and controlled expansion.
• Nosler AccuBond 140gr: This round offers a high BC and reliable expansion, making it a favorite among hunters who prioritize accuracy at extended ranges.

3. Recoil and Comfort: Why the .260 Remington Is a Shooter's Favorite

One of the key advantages of the .260 Remington is its mild recoil, which makes it an excellent choice for hunters who want to stay accurate over extended shooting sessions. The reduced recoil compared to larger calibers like the .308 Winchester means less shooter fatigue and better shot placement, especially for those less accustomed to high-recoil firearms.

Popular Rifles Chambered in .260 Remington:

• Remington Model 700: A classic bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy and reliability. The Model 700 in .260 Remington is a solid choice for hunters looking for a proven platform.
• Savage 110 Tactical: This rifle offers a more modern take, with features like an adjustable stock and a threaded barrel for attachments. It’s perfect for those who want to customize their setup.
• Tikka T3x: Renowned for its smooth action and precision, the Tikka T3x in .260 Remington is a favorite among hunters who demand accuracy and ease of use.

4. Ammo Availability: Is .260 Remington Hard to Find?

A common concern among hunters is the availability of ammunition. While the .260 Remington isn’t as widely stocked as the .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor, it’s far from extinct. Many major ammunition manufacturers still produce .260 Remington rounds, and handloaders will find plenty of options for creating their custom loads.

Notable Manufacturers:

• Federal Premium: Known for their quality and consistency, Federal offers a variety of .260 Remington loads that cater to different hunting needs.
• Winchester: Winchester’s Deer Season XP in .260 Remington is designed specifically for hunting, with optimized terminal performance.
• Barnes VOR-TX: Barnes is famous for their copper bullets, and their .260 Remington offerings are no exception, providing excellent weight retention and penetration.

For those who handload, the .260 Remington offers versatility and customization potential, making it a favorite among reloaders who want to fine-tune their hunting loads.

5. Accuracy and Range: How Far Can You Take the .260 Remington?

The .260 Remington is renowned for its accuracy, especially at medium ranges. It excels in scenarios where precision and consistent shot placement are crucial, such as hunting in open fields or mountainous terrain.

Effective Range:

The .260 Remington is effective out to about 500-600 yards for most hunters, though some skilled marksmen can push it even further. This makes it an ideal choice for mid-sized game in a variety of environments.

Specific Optics Pairings:

• Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x50mm: This scope offers a great balance between magnification and field of view, perfect for the effective range of the .260 Remington.
• Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44: Known for its clear optics and reliable performance, this scope is a great choice for hunters looking to make the most out of their .260 Remington rifle.

6. Hunting Applications: What Game Is the .260 Remington Best Suited For?

The .260 Remington shines as a versatile caliber for mid-sized game. Its combination of mild recoil, flat trajectory, and retained energy make it suitable for a wide range of hunting scenarios.

Ideal Game:

• Deer: The .260 Remington provides more than enough power for whitetail and mule deer, offering quick and humane kills with proper shot placement.
• Antelope: With its flat shooting capabilities, the .260 Remington is perfect for the open plains where antelope are often hunted.
• Wild Boar: The penetration and stopping power of the .260 Remington make it effective against the tough hides and muscle of wild boar.

Gear Recommendations:

• Sitka Gear Mountain Hauler 4000 Pack: Ideal for carrying your gear on extended hunts, this pack is designed to handle the rugged demands of backcountry hunting.
• First Lite Obsidian Merino Pants: These pants offer a blend of comfort and durability, perfect for long days in the field.

7. Is the .260 Remington Dead?

Despite being overshadowed by newer calibers, the .260 Remington remains a viable option for mid-sized game hunting. Its combination of mild recoil, flat trajectory, and versatility make it a strong contender for hunters who prioritize accuracy and comfort.

While it may not be the first choice for every hunter, those who appreciate the .260 Remington’s unique characteristics continue to find success in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking for a new challenge or a beginner who values reduced recoil, the .260 Remington is worth considering.

8. Where to Buy:

As always, it's essential to purchase your firearms and ammunition from reputable sources. SCHEELS offers a wide selection of .260 Remington rifles and ammunition to suit every hunter's needs.

In conclusion, while the .260 Remington may not be the most talked-about caliber in today’s hunting community, it still has plenty to offer. Whether you’re drawn to its mild recoil, impressive accuracy, or versatility in the field, the .260 Remington is far from dead. It remains a viable and valuable option for hunters targeting mid-sized game.