The .277 Fury is a relatively new cartridge, but its performance has quickly garnered attention among hunters. This in-depth guide explores the .277 Fury's ballistics, applications, advantages, and disadvantages to help you determine if it's the right choice for your hunting needs. We'll examine the 277 Fury's capabilities, comparing it to similar calibers and addressing common questions hunters have about this exciting new round.
Understanding the .277 Fury Cartridge
The .277 Fury is a high-velocity, short-action cartridge designed for hunting medium to large game. Developed by Hornady, it utilizes a unique, high-performance bullet design to achieve exceptional accuracy and downrange energy. Key features of the .277 Fury include:
- High Velocity: The .277 Fury pushes bullets to significantly higher velocities than many traditional cartridges, leading to flatter trajectories and increased energy at longer ranges.
- Improved Ballistics: The cartridge's design optimizes for both accuracy and penetration. This allows for a more consistent and reliable shot placement on game.
- Reduced Recoil: Despite its power, the .277 Fury boasts relatively manageable recoil, making it comfortable for extended hunting sessions.
- Short Action: The cartridge fits into short-action rifles, making it versatile and adaptable for various hunting situations.
.277 Fury Ballistics: A Closer Look
The impressive performance of the .277 Fury stems from its high velocity and aerodynamic bullet design. Here's a comparison of its ballistics to other popular hunting cartridges (data may vary depending on bullet weight and manufacturer):
| Cartridge | Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| .277 Fury | 140 | 3200 | ~2800 |
| .270 Winchester | 130 | 3000 | ~2500 |
| 7mm-08 Remington | 140 | 2800 | ~2300 |
| .308 Winchester | 150 | 2800 | ~2600 |
Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on ammunition manufacturer, barrel length, and other factors.
Applications of the .277 Fury in Hunting
The .277 Fury's versatility makes it suitable for various hunting situations and game animals:
- Deer Hunting: The .277 Fury is exceptionally effective for deer hunting, offering the power and accuracy to cleanly dispatch even larger bucks at extended ranges.
- Antelope Hunting: Its flat trajectory and high energy make it ideal for hunting antelope, which are often found in open country.
- Predator Hunting: The .277 Fury’s versatility extends to predator hunting, where its accuracy and stopping power are highly advantageous.
- Medium to Large Game: While not ideal for extremely large game like elk or moose in all situations, the .277 Fury can effectively harvest medium-sized game such as mule deer and black bear, especially at closer ranges with proper shot placement.
Advantages of Choosing the .277 Fury
- High Velocity and Flat Trajectory: Enables accurate shots at extended ranges.
- Superior Accuracy: The cartridge is known for its exceptional accuracy, contributing to clean kills.
- Manageable Recoil: Easier to shoot and control, particularly for less experienced hunters.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of hunting applications.
Disadvantages of the .277 Fury
- Relatively New Cartridge: Ammunition availability might still be limited in some areas compared to more established cartridges.
- Cost: The ammunition can be slightly more expensive than some older, more widely used calibers.
- Potential for Overpenetration: At longer ranges or with specific bullet weights, overpenetration could be a concern, necessitating careful shot placement.
Choosing the Right Rifle for Your .277 Fury Hunting
Selecting the right rifle is crucial to maximize the .277 Fury's potential. Look for rifles with:
- High-Quality Barrel: A precisely manufactured barrel is essential for accuracy.
- Suitable Stock: A comfortable and well-designed stock improves shooting stability.
- Reliable Action: Smooth, reliable operation is critical for quick follow-up shots if needed.
Conclusion: Is the .277 Fury Right for You?
The .277 Fury offers a compelling combination of high velocity, accuracy, and manageable recoil. Its suitability depends on your specific hunting style, the type of game you hunt, and your budget. If you're looking for a high-performance cartridge for medium to large game hunting, the .277 Fury deserves serious consideration. However, remember to weigh the advantages against the potential limitations and ensure proper training and safe handling before using this potent round.