Winchester, Browning Introduce 6.8 Western Cartridge

by
posted on January 15, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
new6_8western-1.jpg

Industry titans Browning and Winchester have teamed up to introduce the 6.8 Western cartridge, which they bill as “the ultimate all-around long-range hunting and shooting cartridge.”

6.8 Western cartridge
The new 6.8 Western cartridge from Browning and Winchester.


With long-range shooting and hunting both fast-growing segments of the market, Winchester and Browning engineers sought a solution that could offer magnum performance with a modern high-BC projectile, yet chamber in a short-action rifle for shorter bolt-throw and less weight. As such, the 6.8 Western cartridge was designed from the get-go as a high-performance cartridge ideal for long-range target shooting, as well as big-game hunting.

To start, Winchester has two 6.8 Western offerings—Expedition Big Game Long Range, with a 165-grain bullet and 2,970 f.p.s. velocity, and Ballistic Silvertip with a 170-grain bullet and 2,920 f.p.s. velocity. And on the Browning side, Long Range Pro Hunter is the initial load with a 175-grain bullet and 2,835 f.p.s.

6.8 Western
The 6.8 Western cartridge coffers impressive long-range accuracy with low recoil and knockdown power for hunting big game.


As for firearms, Winchester says that most of its XPR and Model 70 rifles will have 6.8 Western models. Browning X-Bolt rifles will also have 6.8 Western models.

Says Matt Campbell, vice president of sales and marketing for Winchester Ammunition:

“The 6.8 Western cartridge development defines collaborative innovation. We have designed a cartridge for the growing segment of long-range shooters and hunters that offers significant 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.”
6.8 Western design
Intended to perform far beyond its size, the 6.8 Western cartridge includes a higher energy and lower recoil design.


Ryan Godderidge, senior vice president of sales, marketing and firearms for Browning, also chimed in. 

“The 6.8 Western cartridge brings a new perspective to long-range hunting and shooting. 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 marketplace.”

Learn more about Winchester Ammunition.
Learn more about Browning.


Read more: Review: Browning Buck Mark Plus Vision

Latest

Aylwardlegends 1
Aylwardlegends 1

Legends: Robert Aylward 1951-2025

The shooting sports community mourns the loss of Robert Aylward, who sadly passed away on September 14, 2025.

New: MFT Storage Cube

Mission First Tactical unveils a compact, lightweight storage cube designed for easy transport of gear, ammo and accessories

Hillsdale College Hosts First Men’s Training for Liberty Firearms Retreat at Halter Center

Hillsdale College held its inaugural men’s firearms retreat in August, offering training, catered meals and lectures at its John Anthony Halter Shooting Sports Education Center

Smith & Wesson Opens New Training Academy

Smith & Wesson opens a cutting-edge training academy in Tennessee, offering expert-led firearm courses

New: Trijicon RMR With 3.25-MOA Green Dot

Trijicon launches green-dot RMR Type 2 with 3.25-MOA aiming point and improved daylight performance

The Iconic NRA Smallbore Rifle Trophies You Need to Know

A closer look at four standout NRA Smallbore Rifle trophies—each steeped in history and awarded to champions who master this demanding shooting discipline

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.