The 300 Blackout has earned a reputation as a powerful, adaptable caliber that works well with shorter barrels and both subsonic and supersonic rounds. But the 277 Wolverine is turning heads for good reason, bringing some distinct advantages over the 300 Blackout, especially for shooters looking to add power without major upgrades. Here are ten reasons why the 277 Wolverine might just be the superior choice for your next build.
1. Higher Velocity for Better Range
One of the biggest draws of the 277 Wolverine is its impressive velocity. This caliber offers an additional 200-300 feet per second (fps) over the 300 Blackout when shooting supersonic rounds. This increase in speed translates to a flatter trajectory and enhanced accuracy over longer distances, making it a solid choice if you need precision for shots beyond close range. As u/cornmastah on Reddit puts it, “For supersonic loads, that’s where the Wolverine really shines.”
2. Compatible with Standard .223/5.56 Bolt and Magazine
Like the 300 Blackout, the 277 Wolverine uses the same parent case as the .223/5.56. This means you don’t need to buy a new bolt or magazine if you’re upgrading a standard AR platform, making it both cost-effective and convenient. Just swap out the barrel, and you’re good to go. It’s as simple as screwing on a new 277 Wolverine barrel to an AR frame, letting shooters save on costs without sacrificing performance.
3. Improved Supersonic Performance
While the 300 Blackout performs well at close range, the 277 Wolverine’s increased velocity means it’s more versatile in the field. With a lighter, more aerodynamic 6.8mm bullet, the 277 Wolverine packs nearly 90% of the 6.8 SPC’s performance into a shorter cartridge. This makes it ideal for shooters who want more impact at longer ranges without moving away from their AR platform.
4. Perfect for Handloaders
If you enjoy reloading, the 277 Wolverine opens up a lot of exciting options. Since factory ammunition is limited, most Wolverine users opt to handload their own rounds. You’ll have access to an extensive variety of bullets and powder loads, allowing you to create rounds tailored to your shooting needs. As u/helix6 explains, “The Wolverine has a lot going for it with supersonic bullets,” particularly for shooters who want to fine-tune each round.
5. Suppressor Friendly with Versatile Ammo Options
The 277 Wolverine performs impressively with both subsonic and supersonic rounds, which means you can pair it with a suppressor for quieter shooting. With subsonic rounds, you can hunt small game or target practice with minimal noise, while supersonic loads give you added power for bigger targets. This makes the Wolverine a flexible round, especially for those who appreciate the quieter shooting experience of a suppressor.
6. Works Well in Shorter Barrels
The 277 Wolverine was designed with shorter barrels in mind, making it perfect for AR pistols and short-barreled rifles (SBRs). Its ballistic performance holds up even in a 10.5-inch barrel, giving it an edge over other rounds that rely on longer barrels for full effectiveness. For shooters who need a compact, powerful setup, the 277 Wolverine is hard to beat. This setup allows shooters to handle their firearms in tight spaces, like hunting blinds or vehicles, without sacrificing power.
7. Easier to Find Brass – Thanks to .223 Compatibility
Finding brass for the 277 Wolverine is simpler and cheaper than some other calibers because it’s based on the common .223 case. According to u/cornmastah, reloading costs aren’t much different between the 277 Wolverine and 300 Blackout. And, as 223 brass is more affordable and widely available, you’ll have less trouble sourcing supplies for the Wolverine, which is a major bonus for frequent shooters.
8. High Energy Retention at Range
Due to its speed and flatter trajectory, the 277 Wolverine retains energy exceptionally well over distances, giving it an advantage at mid-range shooting. Even at 300 yards, the 277 Wolverine has about 5-10% more supersonic energy on target than the 300 Blackout, making it suitable for medium game at longer distances. This high energy retention ensures that your shots carry impact without the same drastic drop-off associated with heavier, slower bullets.
9. Ideal for Precision Shooting
For shooters who value precision, the 277 Wolverine is incredibly accurate. This caliber can produce sub-MOA groups at distances as far as 500 yards when paired with a quality scope and well-loaded rounds. A lot of shooters have found that their 277 Wolverine setups consistently provide excellent accuracy, allowing them to feel confident at various ranges.
10. Lightweight with Low Recoil
The 277 Wolverine’s lighter bullet means lower recoil than the 300 Blackout, especially in an AR pistol or SBR platform. For those who shoot in longer sessions or who want to avoid the fatigue of high-recoil rounds, this is a notable advantage. The reduced kick makes it easier to stay on target and recover quickly between shots, giving shooters a more enjoyable and controlled experience.
A Round-Up of Versatile Power
In conclusion, the 277 Wolverine offers a fresh twist on a reliable AR platform round. With benefits like higher velocity, better energy retention, and compatibility with standard AR components, the Wolverine is a fantastic choice for handloaders, hunters, and anyone seeking precision at a range. Whether you’re setting up a compact hunting rifle or looking for long-range accuracy, the 277 Wolverine brings versatility and performance to the table.
So, if you’re ready to explore beyond the 300 Blackout, the 277 Wolverine might just be your next favorite caliber.
Gary’s love for adventure and preparedness stems from his background as a former Army medic. Having served in remote locations around the world, he knows the importance of being ready for any situation, whether in the wilderness or urban environments. Gary’s practical medical expertise blends with his passion for outdoor survival, making him an expert in both emergency medical care and rugged, off-the-grid living. He writes to equip readers with the skills needed to stay safe and resilient in any scenario.