Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 Grain Ammunition: Unrivaled Performance for Discerning Hunters
For generations, serious hunters have relied on Winchester ammunition for its unwavering quality and legendary performance in the field. The Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Winchester Magnum 140 grain (gr) cartridge, identified by its SKU X2642, continues this proud tradition, offering an exceptional blend of speed, energy, and bullet design meticulously engineered for devastating effectiveness on medium game.
This specific ammunition is an ideal choice for hunters who demand precision, reliability, and consistent terminal performance, especially when pursuing animals like deer, antelope, or even smaller elk in varied terrains, from open plains to dense woodlands. If you’re a hunter looking to optimize your success and achieve clean, ethical harvests, understanding the nuances of the .264 Winchester Magnum caliber and Winchester’s Power-Point bullet technology is essential.
The .264 Winchester Magnum: A Legacy of Speed and Precision for Open Country
The .264 Winchester Magnum, introduced by Winchester in 1959, carved out a niche as a high-velocity, flat-shooting cartridge designed primarily for long-range hunting. It quickly gained a reputation among hunters for its impressive ballistics, making it a favorite for open country pursuits where extended shot distances are common.
What makes the .264 Win Mag a preferred caliber?
- Exceptional Velocity: The cartridge is known for driving bullets at very high muzzle velocities, which translates to a flatter trajectory over long distances. This characteristic significantly reduces the need for extensive holdover adjustments, making precise shot placement easier at varying ranges.
- Potent Energy Delivery: Despite its relatively lighter bullet weights compared to some larger magnum calibers, the .264 Win Mag generates substantial muzzle energy, ensuring profound energy transfer upon impact, which is crucial for quick, humane kills.
- Versatility for Medium Game: While it shines in open country for game like pronghorn and mule deer, its capabilities extend to a wide array of medium-sized animals. For hunters targeting whitetail deer, blacktail deer, sheep, or even goat species, the .264 Win Mag offers a compelling blend of power and accuracy.
- Reduced Recoil Compared to Larger Magnums: While still a magnum cartridge, the .264 Win Mag often provides a more manageable recoil impulse compared to more powerful big-game magnums. This allows for quicker follow-up shots and can contribute to better shooting accuracy for many hunters.
The development of the .264 Win Mag was a direct response to the demand for a cartridge that could bridge the gap between traditional deer cartridges and larger elk/moose cartridges, offering superior long-range performance without excessive recoil. It truly excels in situations where a flatter trajectory is a distinct advantage, helping hunters make confident shots when the trophy animal appears at unexpected distances.
Winchester Super-X Power-Point: The Bullet that Delivers Devastating Terminal Performance
At the heart of the Winchester Super-X .264 Win Mag 140 gr X2642 cartridge is the renowned Power-Point bullet. This specific bullet design is a cornerstone of Winchester's Super-X line, celebrated for its time-proven dependability and effectiveness in the field.
Key Design Elements and How They Benefit Hunters:
- Exposed Lead Tip: The most distinctive feature of the Power-Point bullet is its exposed lead tip. This design is not merely aesthetic; it's a critical component for reliable and rapid expansion upon impact. When the bullet strikes game, the soft lead tip initiates immediate mushrooming, ensuring a wide wound channel.
- Notched Jacket: The copper alloy jacket of the Power-Point bullet features strategically placed notches. These notches are engineered to control the expansion process. Instead of fragmenting excessively or failing to expand, the notched jacket promotes consistent, controlled expansion, allowing the bullet to achieve significant diameter while retaining enough mass for deep penetration. This balance between expansion and penetration is vital for reaching vital organs and ensuring a clean harvest.
- Deep Penetration: While expanding effectively, the Power-Point bullet is also designed to penetrate deeply through tissue and bone. This is essential for reaching the vitals of larger medium game animals, even when presented with less-than-ideal shot angles. The bullet’s ability to drive through muscle and bone ensures that the expanded portion does its work where it matters most.
- Consistent Performance: Hunters need ammunition they can trust shot after shot. The Power-Point bullet is manufactured with high-quality components and stringent quality control, leading to uniform ballistic performance. This consistency means you can rely on your ammunition to perform the same way every time you pull the trigger, building confidence in your gear.
- 140 Grain Weight: The 140 grain bullet weight is often considered an optimal balance for the .264 Winchester Magnum. It’s heavy enough to provide excellent sectional density for penetration and stability in flight, yet light enough to be driven at very high velocities, maximizing the flat trajectory advantage of the caliber. This combination makes it highly effective for medium game where both speed and controlled expansion are paramount.
The combination of the exposed lead tip and notched jacket ensures that the Power-Point bullet delivers a powerful, devastating blow to game, maximizing energy transfer and creating a wide, destructive wound cavity. This reliable terminal performance contributes directly to achieving quick, humane, and ethical kills, a primary concern for any responsible hunter.
Understanding the Ballistics: What the Numbers Mean for Hunters
The specifications of the Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 gr ammunition provide critical insights into its performance capabilities.
- Muzzle Velocity: 3030 fps (feet per second)
- This is the speed at which the bullet leaves the barrel. A muzzle velocity of 3030 fps for a 140 gr bullet is exceptionally fast, characteristic of magnum cartridges like the .264 Win Mag.
- Implication for Hunters: High muzzle velocity is the primary driver of the cartridge's flat trajectory. This means less bullet drop over distance, simplifying aiming for shots across open fields or canyons. It also contributes to less wind drift, improving accuracy in challenging conditions. The speed also translates to less lead time on moving targets.
- Muzzle Energy: 2854 ft lbs (foot-pounds)
- Muzzle energy is a measure of the kinetic energy the bullet possesses as it exits the barrel. It’s a key indicator of the bullet's potential "knockdown power" or its ability to deliver a decisive blow to game.
- Implication for Hunters: An energy figure of 2854 ft lbs is substantial for a 140 gr bullet and is more than sufficient for ethical and effective harvesting of medium game. This energy ensures that the bullet not only penetrates but also creates significant hydrostatic shock and tissue damage, leading to rapid incapacitation.
- Bullet Weight: 140 gr
- As discussed, the 140 grain weight is a well-balanced choice for the .264 Win Mag, offering a good compromise between velocity and momentum for effective terminal performance on medium game.
- Casing Material: Brass
- Brass casings are the industry standard for high-quality rifle ammunition. They offer excellent durability, consistent chambering and extraction, and reliable pressure containment. For those who reload, brass casings are also highly sought after for their reusability, further adding to the value of Winchester ammunition.
These ballistic figures confirm that the Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 gr is not just fast, but also powerfully effective, delivering the necessary energy and penetration to ensure successful hunting outcomes.
Ideal Applications: Who Benefits Most from This Ammunition?
This ammunition is specifically engineered to meet the demands of various hunting scenarios and types of game.
Primary Game Type: Medium Game
The Winchester Power-Point 140 gr in .264 Win Mag is categorized as excellent for medium game. This encompasses a broad range of animals typically targeted by hunters across North America and beyond.
Specific Use Cases and Hunter Profiles:
- Deer Hunters (Whitetail, Mule Deer, Blacktail): This is where the .264 Win Mag truly shines. Its flat trajectory is a significant advantage in open country where deer may be spotted at considerable distances. The Power-Point bullet ensures rapid, humane kills on deer-sized animals.
- Antelope Hunters: Pronghorn antelope are known for inhabiting vast, open plains, making long-range shots a common occurrence. The speed and flat trajectory of the 264 Win Mag 140 gr Power-Point make it an outstanding choice for these swift and elusive animals.
- Sheep and Goat Hunters: For hunters pursuing Bighorn Sheep, Dall Sheep, Aoudad, or various mountain goats, the combination of relatively light rifle weight (often chambered in .264 Win Mag), manageable recoil, and highly effective ammunition is crucial for success in rugged, high-altitude terrain.
- Smaller Elk/Larger Medium Game: While not typically considered a primary elk cartridge, the .264 Win Mag with the 140 gr Power-Point can be effective for smaller elk, cow elk, or spike elk at moderate ranges, provided the hunter exercises excellent shot placement. Its deep penetration capabilities with the Power-Point bullet are advantageous.
- Hunters Seeking Versatility: For a hunter who primarily targets deer and antelope but occasionally ventures after larger medium game, the .264 Win Mag 140 gr offers a versatile solution without needing to switch to a heavier, more recoiling caliber.
- Experienced Marksmen: Hunters who are proficient in shooting at varying ranges and understand ballistic principles will particularly appreciate the flat-shooting nature of this cartridge, enabling them to maximize its long-range potential.
This ammunition is designed to instill confidence in the hunter, knowing that their chosen cartridge and bullet will perform consistently and effectively when that critical shot opportunity arises.
Maximizing Your Success in the Field: Tips for Using .264 Win Mag 140 gr Power-Point
While the Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 gr ammunition is inherently reliable, incorporating a few best practices can further enhance your hunting success and ensure the most ethical outcomes.
- Know Your Rifle's Performance: Every rifle-ammunition combination is unique. It's crucial to extensively practice with your specific rifle and this ammunition. Shoot at various distances (100, 200, 300+ yards) to understand your rifle’s point of impact, velocity variations, and drop at different ranges. A quality scope zeroed correctly is paramount.
- Understand Ballistic Trajectory: Utilize a ballistic calculator with the specific data for the 140 gr Power-Point (muzzle velocity, bullet coefficient if available, and your local environmental conditions) to generate accurate drop tables. This knowledge is invaluable for making precise shots at extended distances.
- Practice Ethical Shot Placement: Regardless of the cartridge's power, ethical shot placement is the cornerstone of responsible hunting. Aim for the vital organs (heart/lungs) to ensure a quick and humane harvest. The Power-Point bullet’s controlled expansion is designed to maximize damage within this vital zone.
- Consider Environmental Factors: Wind drift can significantly affect bullet trajectory, especially with high-velocity, lighter bullets like those in the .264 Win Mag. Practice shooting in windy conditions and learn to read the wind effectively. Temperature and altitude also subtly influence ballistics; being aware of these factors can help fine-tune your shot.
- Ammunition Storage and Handling: To maintain the integrity and performance of your ammunition, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Proper storage prevents degradation of propellants and primers, ensuring consistent performance when you need it most. Avoid exposing ammunition to excessive moisture.
- Safety First, Always: Adhere to all firearm safety rules. Treat every firearm as if it's loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it. Store ammunition securely and separately from firearms.
By following these guidelines, hunters can fully leverage the capabilities of Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 gr ammunition, leading to more successful and satisfying hunting experiences.
Why Winchester Super-X Continues to Be a Hunter's Choice
Winchester's Super-X line of ammunition has been a staple for hunters for decades, building a reputation for reliability that few other brands can match. The X2642 .264 Win Mag 140 gr Power-Point exemplifies this legacy.
- Time-Proven Dependability: The "time-proven dependability" isn't just a marketing slogan; it reflects generations of hunters who have put their trust in Super-X ammunition in the most critical moments. This heritage means you're investing in a product with a verifiable track record of performance in diverse hunting environments.
- Legendary Excellence: Winchester’s commitment to excellence in manufacturing ammunition is well-documented. From the selection of premium components—like the high-quality brass casing and meticulously designed Power-Point bullet—to rigorous quality control processes, every cartridge is crafted to deliver consistent, reliable performance.
- Precision Manufacturing: The consistent muzzle velocity of 3030 fps and muzzle energy of 2854 ft lbs are not accidental. They are the result of precise powder charges, consistent bullet seating, and reliable primers, all contributing to superior accuracy and predictable terminal effects.
- Broad Availability: As a widely respected brand, Winchester ammunition, including the Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 gr, is readily available through reputable retailers such as DEGuns.com. This ensures that hunters can consistently acquire the ammunition they trust, year after year.
Choosing Winchester Super-X Power-Point means selecting ammunition that has earned its place among the best through consistent results and a commitment to helping hunters achieve their goals with confidence.
Common Questions from Hunters About .264 Win Mag and Power-Point Ammunition
Hunters often have specific questions when selecting ammunition. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the .264 Winchester Magnum and the Power-Point bullet:
- Is the .264 Win Mag 140 gr suitable for long-range hunting?
Yes, absolutely. With its high muzzle velocity (3030 fps), the .264 Win Mag is inherently a flat-shooting cartridge. The 140 gr Power-Point bullet retains energy well downrange, making it an excellent choice for hunting medium game at extended distances, often out to 300-400 yards and beyond with proper marksmanship and ballistic knowledge. - What kind of expansion can I expect from the Power-Point bullet?
The Winchester Power-Point bullet is designed for reliable, controlled expansion. Its exposed lead tip initiates immediate mushrooming upon impact, and the notched jacket ensures that the bullet expands significantly (often doubling its original diameter) while retaining sufficient weight and integrity for deep penetration. This balance leads to a wide wound channel and effective energy transfer. - How does the 140 gr bullet perform on bone?
The Power-Point bullet, with its robust jacket and controlled expansion design, is capable of penetrating light to moderate bone structures (like ribs or shoulder blades on deer-sized animals) while maintaining its integrity to reach vital organs. Its combination of weight and velocity allows it to drive through obstacles. - Why choose 140 grain over lighter or heavier bullet weights for the .264 Win Mag?
The 140 grain bullet for the .264 Win Mag is often considered the sweet spot for a balance of velocity, ballistic coefficient, and sectional density. Lighter bullets might offer slightly higher initial velocity but can shed energy faster and be more susceptible to wind drift. Heavier bullets might offer more penetration but could reduce the flat trajectory advantage of the .264 Win Mag. The 140 gr provides an excellent all-around performance for medium game. - Can I use this ammunition for self-defense or target shooting?
While technically capable, this ammunition is purpose-built for hunting applications. Its design prioritizes terminal performance on game animals. For dedicated target shooting, specific match-grade ammunition might offer tighter groups, and for self-defense, different calibers and bullet types are typically recommended for civilian or law enforcement applications. - How does the .264 Win Mag compare to other popular hunting calibers?
The .264 Win Mag stands out from non-magnum cartridges like the .30-06 or .270 Winchester with its higher velocity and flatter trajectory, particularly at longer ranges. Compared to larger magnums like the .300 Win Mag, the .264 generally offers less recoil while still providing ample power for medium game. It fills a niche for hunters who prioritize long-range precision and manageable recoil.
Conclusion
The Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 gr ammunition (SKU X2642) represents a powerful and reliable choice for hunters dedicated to ethical and effective harvesting of medium game. Its combination of the .264 Winchester Magnum's renowned speed and flat trajectory with the time-proven, controlled expansion of the Power-Point bullet makes it an exceptional performer in the field. From the consistent 3030 fps muzzle velocity to the impactful 2854 ft lbs of energy, every aspect of this cartridge is designed to enhance your hunting success. When you need dependable performance backed by a legacy of excellence, this Winchester ammunition, readily available at trusted retailers like DEGuns.com, stands ready to meet the challenge.
Product Specifications: Winchester Super-X Power-Point .264 Win Mag 140 gr Ammunition
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Winchester Ammo |
| Model | Power-Point |
| Caliber | 264 Win Mag |
| Bullet Type | Power Point |
| Bullet Weight | 140 gr |
| Rounds Per Box | 20 |
| Boxes Per Case | 10 |
| Casing Material | Brass |
| Muzzle Energy | 2854 ft lbs |
| Muzzle Velocity | 3030 fps |
| Game Type | Medium |
| Application | Hunting |
| SKU | X2642 |
| MPN | X2642 |
| UPC | 020892200647 |