A QUICK "PRIMER" ON 260 REMINGTON AMMO
Introduced in 1997, the .260 Remington was designed to offer a flat-shooting, low-recoil cartridge built for both hunting and precision shooting. Formed by necking down the .308 Winchester case to accept 6.5mm (.264 caliber) bullets, the 260 Remington benefits from a wide selection of high-ballistic-coefficient projectiles, making it exceptionally accurate at extended ranges. It has earned a reputation for long-range consistency, whether on the hunt or in the precision rifle world.
Most 260 Remington ammo is loaded with bullet weights between 120 and 140 grains, offering shooters flexibility across various use cases. Lighter 120-grain bullets provide faster muzzle velocities and flatter trajectories, while heavier 140-grain bullets maintain energy and resist wind drift, making them a favorite among long-range competitors and backcountry hunters.
A common comparison is between the .260 Remington and 6.5 Creedmoor, as both share similar ballistic characteristics. While the 260 Rem can offer slightly higher velocities due to its larger case capacity, the 6.5 Creedmoor is often preferred for its shorter case length, which allows it to accommodate longer, high-BC bullets in standard-length magazines. Still, many shooters appreciate the traditional design and proven performance of the 260 Remington, especially when reloading or hunting in rugged terrain.
For factory ammunition, Hornady Precision Hunter, loaded with ELD-X bullets, is a top-tier option for hunters targeting deer, antelope, and other medium-sized game. These bullets offer excellent ballistic performance and reliable terminal expansion. On the competition side, Federal Premium loads featuring Sierra MatchKing bullets are prized for their accuracy, making them a go-to for shooters demanding consistency shot after shot.
Whether you're working with a custom 260 Remington rifle or stocking up for your next long-range session, .260 Remington ammo offers a powerful blend of accuracy, versatility, and shootability.
TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 260 REMINGTON AMMO
Choosing the right 260 Remington ammo depends on your shooting discipline, whether you're hunting, target shooting, or dialing in for long-range competitions. Understanding how bullet types, weights, and rifle specs influence performance will help you get the most from your .260 Remington rifle.
Purpose: Match your load to your mission. For hunting, select bullets that deliver controlled expansion and deep penetration, such as polymer-tipped or soft-point designs. These are ideal for medium-sized game like deer, antelope, and hogs. If you're shooting competitively or at extended ranges, opt for match-grade bullets like Hollow Point Boat Tail (HPBT) or Open Tip Match (OTM), engineered for superior stability, accuracy, and ballistic consistency.
Bullet Weight: Most .260 ammo falls between 120 and 140 grains. Lighter bullets (~120 grains) offer higher muzzle velocity and flatter trajectories, making them great for small game or long-distance shots in mild wind. Heavier bullets (139-142 grains) retain energy better at distance and resist wind drift, ideal for larger game or windy, open-country conditions.
Choosing a Manufacturer: Stick with industry leaders known for producing consistent, high-quality 260 Remington ammunition. Hornady is a top choice with its Precision Hunter line (ELD-X bullets) offering excellent hunting ballistics. Federal Premium provides precision loads like Sierra MatchKing HPBT, trusted by long-range competitors. Nosler offers a balance of hunting and match-ready cartridges with premium bonded and solid-base options.
Consider Barrel Twist Rate: Your rifle's barrel twist rate plays a key role in stabilizing different bullet weights. A faster twist rate (e.g., 1:8") is optimal for heavier bullets (140+ grains), while a slower twist (e.g., 1:9") may perform better with lighter loads. Most 260 Remington rifles are designed with versatile twist rates, but knowing your specific rifle's specs helps you choose ammo that maximizes accuracy and stability.
THE 260 REMINGTON AMMO "ROUND UP"
Whether you're dialing in at a long-range competition or heading out on a backcountry hunt, our selection of 260 Remington ammo is built to perform. Renowned for its flat trajectory, mild recoil, and impressive downrange accuracy, the .260 Remington remains a trusted choice for hunters, precision shooters, and reloaders alike. At Target Sports USA, we stock top-performing .260 Remington ammunition from brands like Hornady, Federal, and Nosler, with options tailored for both the field and the firing line. Whether you're shooting a custom rig or a factory 260 Remington rifle, you'll find the rounds you need to hit your mark with confidence. Explore our full lineup, including bulk .260 ammo and precision match loads, and gear up with ammunition engineered to exceed expectations.