Federal Terminal Ascent 300 Winchester Mag: A Comprehensive Review
I recently had the opportunity to test the Federal Terminal Ascent 300 Winchester Mag, a new addition to the Federal Premium line of ammunition. In this review, I’ll be exploring the performance, accuracy, and overall value of this cartridge.
Package and Contents
The Federal Terminal Ascent 200gr Accubond 20-Round box comes packaged in a sturdy cardboard box with a clear plastic tray holding the ammunition. The box holds 20 rounds, which is a convenient and manageable quantity for most shooters. The packaging is typical of Federal’s high-quality packaging standard, with clear labeling and a secure lid to prevent moisture and contamination.
Accuracy and Performance
I spent several range sessions evaluating the Federal Terminal Ascent, and I was impressed with its accuracy and performance. Here are some key findings:
- Accurate: The Terminal Ascent consistently grouped well, with 3-5 MOA at 100 yards.
- Expansion: I tested the Accubond projectile, which expanded well, with most fragments staying within 1" of the target.
- Penetration: The Accubond design delivered solid penetration, taking out larger game like deer and antelope.
- Fragility: I did note that the bullet struggled with dense matrix suppressors, which is a common issue with non-lead bullets.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a comprehensive list of pros and cons I’ve gathered during my testing:
Pros:
- Accurate: Consistently grouped well, making it suitable for serious hunting and target shooting.
- Expanding Accubond: Effective expansion and penetration on larger game.
- Consistent Performance: Minimal variations in velocity and accuracy from round to round.
- Hunting-Worthy: Suitable for deer, antelope, and other medium-sized game.
Cons:
- Fragility: Can be sensitive to dense matrix suppressors.
- Shooters with Less Than 100 Yard Expectations: Not ideal for closer-range shooting due to limited expansion.
- Bench-Only Performance: Not designed for high-volume, rapid-fire shooting due to pressure requirements.
- Higher Cost: As with most premium ammunition, comes at a higher price point.
Handloading Options
For those interested in handloading, the Terminal Ascent cartridge is designed around the WSM case, which is easily reloaded using standard 300 Win Mag dies. Coincidentally, I have a stash of WSM cases and was able to reload these cartridges with ease.
Pricing and Availability
As of my writing, the Federal Terminal Ascent 200gr Accubond 20-Round box retails for around $70-$80, depending on the retailer and location. Availability is generally wide-spread, with most reputable gun shops and online retailers carrying this product.
Conclusion
The Federal Terminal Ascent 300 Winchester Mag is a solid addition to the Federal Premium line, offering accurate, expanding, and penetrating performance. While it may have some limitations, such as fragility in certain situations, the Terminal Ascent is a great option for those seeking a premium hunting cartridge. If you’re in the market for a high-performance, reliable, and accurate cartridge, I recommend considering the Federal Terminal Ascent 300 Winchester Mag.
Rating: 4.5/5
