Winchester and Browning just teamed up, as they often do, to bring shooters a brand new long-range cartridge. The Winchester 6.8 Western markets to long-range hunting and competition shooters. To mark the launch, a number of Winchester and Browning rifles already chamber the new cartridge.

Winchester 6.8 Western Cartridge Details

The interest in all things long-range continues to rise. So Winchester and Browning sought to develop a modern, high-BC projectile. It needed to chamber in a short-action rifle. Also, engineers wanted a shorter bolt throw and lighter weight. The result is the 6.8 Western, which brings all of that to several different cartridge offerings.

The Western 6.8 boats heavier bullet weights than 6.5 CM, 6.5 PRC and .270 WSM. It also delivers more energy than 6.5 CM, 6.5 PRC and 7mm Rem. Mag. Conversely, it exhibits less recoil than .300 WSM, .300 Win. Mag. or .300 PRC. The cartridge utilizes long, heavy bullets, all in a short-action rifle platform.

“The cartridge development defines collaborative innovation,” said Matt Campbell, vice president of sales and marketing for Winchester Ammo. “We have designed a cartridge for the growing segment of long-range shooters and hunters that offers serious features and benefits. We strive to introduce new products that add value to our customers, and we believe the 6.8 Western will do just that.”

“The 6.8 Western cartridge brings a new perspective to long-range hunting and shooting,” said Ryan Godderidge, senior vice president of sales, marketing and firearms for Browning. “It provides magnum level performance in our short action rifles, giving the shooter highly effective down-range energy, even at longer ranges, while allowing for a lighter-weight platform. We’re excited about bringing this into the market place.”

Both Winchester and Browning already offer different platforms in the new cartridge. Most Winchester XPR and Model 70 rifles chamber the new 6.8, while most Browning X-Bolt variants also carry the cartridge.

Winchester 6.8 Western comes in Ballistic Silvertip, Match and Expedition Long Range lines. Muzzle velocities approach range 2,910-2,970 fps. For even more info, please visit winchester.com.