Hunting the high alpine puts a different set of demands on a cartridge than the thick timber. On one hand, above tree line there is a greater ability to hold out for a broadside shot, and game is typically smaller than the elk, moose and bears found in the timber. Conversely, shots trend longer, winds edge faster, and sharp shot angles are the norm. As such, true mountain hunting demands performance which many traditional hunting cartridges lack. Below are five of the best mountain hunting cartridges for overcoming the unique challenges of high country field shooting.
6.5 PRC
The 6.5 PRC is a young cartridge that has already made it’s mark on the mountain hunting. Excelling with 130gr-156gr bullets, the 6.5 PRC provides magnum performance in a short action package. The twist rate and cartridge length specifications allow the 6.5 PRC to push scandalously aerodynamic bullets at very respectable speeds. This combination offers exceptional performance in the wind.
Another excellent attribute of the 6.5 PRC is that it provides these excellent ballistics at a recoil level that is manageable for most shooters. With proper form, shooters can spot their own shots using rifles that aren’t too heavy to get up the mountain. This balance of ballistics and shootability makes the 6.5 PRC an excellent choice for the avid mountain hunter.
6 Creedmoor
Next, another excellent cartridge for high country hunts is the 6 Creedmoor. Candidly, mule deer, mountain goats, and mountain sheep don’t require a stopping rifle to cleanly kill. The 6 Creedmoor offers recoil similar to a 243 Winchester with better wind bucking bullets.
Perhaps the greatest attribute of the 6 Creedmoor for mountain hunting is the light recoil and inherent accuracy. This is paramount for hunters carrying an ultralight rifle. A 6 Creedmoor will but much more shootable than larger chamberings, especially in rifles weighing in under 7lbs. A 90-115 grain bullet going mock chicken is great sheep medicine and pairs well with the trimmest rifles on the market.
270 Winchester
While most of the cartridges on this list are modern, there is still room for the classics. The 270 Winchester has been killing mountain game for over 100 years and continues to hold its own. Frankly, the bullets in the 270 are not as sleek as some of the other cartridges on this list. At extended distances the old 270 does not buck the wind quite as well as some more modern designs.
However, inside of 400 yards the classic 130gr spitzer at 3100 fps is a flat shooting killer. Another excellent option is the Hornady Precision Hunter load with the 145gr ELD-X. For hunters looking for a classic chambering for their mountain rifle, the 270 Winchester is an excellent choice.
6.5 Creedmoor
The 6.5 Creedmoor is the most popular hunting cartridge in terms of new rifle sales today, and for good reason. While its velocities are modest compared to other options in this list, the high BC bullets it pushes make up for it. Couple that with mild recoil and this is a very effective cartridge in mountain conditions.
Possibly the greatest attribute of the 6.5 Creedmoor is its balance. The 6.5 CM combines low recoil, good wind performance, cheap practice ammo, and forgiving accuracy. It’s deserving of its popularity and more than earns a place on this list.
280 Ackley Improved
Rounding out the list of the top mountain hunting cartridges is my old favourite, the 280 Ackley Improved. Admittedly, the 280 AI is bigger than strictly necessary for most mountain game. However, the extremely efficient 7mm bullets offer perhaps the best ballistic performance available without creating undue recoil. Bullets like the 162 ELD-X, 168 ABLR, and 175 ELD-X offer exceptional ballistics. It’s not unreasonably to expect 2900-3000 fps with 160-170 class bullets.
As an honorable mention, I nearly selected the 7 PRC to represent the 7’s in this list. However, the smaller bolt face and corresponding scaled actions from the likes of Kimber and Weatherby swayed me towards the 280 AI instead. Additionally, the lower recoil for nearly identical ballistics makes the 280 AI a better choice for the dedicated mountain hunter.
Closing Thoughts
Chasing game amongst the towering peaks, avalanche chutes, and knife ridges is a demanding pursuit. Extreme conditions challenge not only the hunter but also the cartridge he brings to the mountains. Any of the mountain hunting cartridges above optimize the likelihood of coming home with meat in addition to great stories and experiences.