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Is the 277 Wolverine Worth the Hype?

The firearms world is buzzing with interest in the 277 Wolverine, a unique cartridge that packs a punch despite its relatively compact size. Originally developed by Mad Dog Weapon Systems (MDWS), this cartridge is quickly gaining a dedicated following among hunters, target shooters, and those with an interest in hand-loading. So, what exactly makes the 277 Wolverine special, and is it really worth all the hype? Let’s break down its strengths, limitations, and applications to see if it’s right for you.

The Origins of the 277 Wolverine

The Origins of the 277 Wolverine
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The 277 Wolverine, also referred to as the 6.8x39mm cartridge, is a “wildcat” cartridge – meaning it isn’t produced on a commercial scale or standardized by the industry regulator SAMMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute). Wildcat cartridges like this one are custom-made, generally to serve a specific purpose or to offer performance outside the bounds of mass-produced ammunition. Mad Dog Weapon Systems introduced the 277 Wolverine to offer an efficient, powerful cartridge suitable for a variety of uses, particularly in an AR-15 platform.

What Sets It Apart?

What Sets It Apart
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Ballistically, the 277 Wolverine sits somewhere between the well-known .223 Remington and the 300 Blackout. It provides slightly faster speeds and a lighter build than the 300 Blackout, making it an appealing option for those who want a mid-powered cartridge with excellent versatility. Unlike other rounds, the Wolverine’s efficiency shines through its use of a parent case (the .223 Remington) that can be modified to suit its specifications. This feature allows users to form 277 Wolverine cases relatively easily, though it does require a unique set of reloading dies.

Designed for Versatility

Designed for Versatility
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The 277 Wolverine is often described as a “multi-purpose” cartridge, which is one of its main appeals. With relatively low recoil and an impressive power profile, it works well for a range of tasks, from predator control to medium-range hunting. For those who need a firearm capable of handling small to mid-sized targets like coyotes, foxes, or even some deer, the Wolverine steps up. The 277 Wolverine performs well at distances of up to 300 yards with the right barrel length and load, offering solid accuracy and stopping power.

Not SAMMI Approved

Not SAMMI Approved
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A big reason you won’t find 277 Wolverine ammunition on store shelves is its lack of SAMMI approval. Because the cartridge hasn’t gone through SAMMI’s rigorous standardization, it’s primarily available through hand-loading. The approval process requires significant investment, typically by a large company, and until someone takes that step, the 277 Wolverine will remain in the wildcat territory. While this may be inconvenient for some, it adds to the cartridge’s unique, almost niche appeal in the firearms community.

The Mechanics: Building a Wolverine Cartridge

The Mechanics Building a Wolverine Cartridge
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One of the most fascinating aspects of the 277 Wolverine is how it’s constructed. Starting with a standard .223 Remington case, hand-loaders can use specialized dies to reshape it to Wolverine specifications. These dies can be tricky to find and may run as high as $100, but they open the door to creating your own ammunition if you’re committed. The Wolverine’s shoulder is set at a 23-degree angle, giving it a unique shape that enhances efficiency and supports its higher performance.

Barrel Adaptation on AR Platforms

Barrel Adaptation on AR Platforms
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One great feature of the 277 Wolverine is its compatibility with AR-15 platforms. To use it, the only component you need to replace is the barrel, as the Wolverine is compatible with a standard 5.56 bolt and bolt carrier group. This straightforward swap makes it easy for AR enthusiasts to experiment with the Wolverine without investing in a whole new setup. Additionally, barrels for the 277 Wolverine are available in various lengths, typically ranging from 10.5 to 18 inches, allowing users to tailor their setup to specific needs, whether for home defense, hunting, or tactical purposes.

A Closer Look at Ballistics

A Closer Look at Ballistics
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In terms of ballistic performance, the 277 Wolverine offers competitive speed and efficiency. Using a 110-grain projectile, the Wolverine can achieve velocities around 2,500 feet per second, coming close to the 6.8 SPC’s performance. With a smaller case and propellant charge than the 6.8 SPC, the Wolverine is also more efficient, producing less recoil – a crucial factor for maintaining accuracy and shooter comfort. For comparison, while a 6.8 SPC may reach speeds of around 2,700 feet per second, the Wolverine’s efficiency makes it a formidable choice for mid-range shooting with less kick.

Components and Availability Challenges

Components and Availability Challenges
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The lack of SAMMI approval and limited commercial availability mean that finding factory-loaded 277 Wolverine ammunition is rare. There was a brief window in 2017 when Starline, a brass manufacturer, produced around 50,000 277 Wolverine cases. This limited run sold out in just a few days, underscoring the cartridge’s popularity among niche enthusiasts. Without regular commercial production, however, hand-loading remains the most reliable way to obtain ammunition, and components like brass and dies can sometimes be hard to source.

Reloading for the Wolverine

Reloading for the Wolverine
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Reloading the 277 Wolverine requires attention to detail, especially as data for this cartridge isn’t as widely published as more common rounds. Several resources online provide load data, which includes optimal barrel lengths, propellants, and projectiles. Still, it’s important to approach these sources carefully, as the data isn’t always standardized. Reloading for the Wolverine demands patience and precision, but for those who enjoy custom ammunition, it can be a rewarding endeavor.

Practical Applications: From Predators to Practice

Practical Applications From Predators to Practice
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For hunters, the Wolverine’s compact power makes it well-suited for predators and varmints, especially in areas where other mid-range options like the 300 Blackout or .223 Remington may fall short. Its minimal recoil makes it enjoyable for longer practice sessions, too. The ability to build rounds tailored to specific needs makes it versatile enough for both practical and tactical shooting. While not necessarily intended for long-range engagements, the Wolverine shines within the 300-yard mark.

Why the Wolverine?

Why the Wolverine
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So, why go through the trouble of acquiring and using a wildcat cartridge? For one, the 277 Wolverine offers a middle ground between standard cartridges, filling a niche in performance and adaptability. It gives hand-loaders and firearms enthusiasts an exciting alternative with distinctive characteristics. For those who prioritize customization and appreciate the nuances of shooting different calibers, the Wolverine provides a unique shooting experience that many standard cartridges simply can’t match.

Is the 277 Wolverine Worth It?

Is the 277 Wolverine Worth It
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Ultimately, whether the 277 Wolverine is worth it depends on your needs and interest in hand-loading. If you’re looking for readily available factory ammunition, this might not be the best choice. However, if you enjoy the process of customizing and hand-loading your own cartridges and want something a little off the beaten path, the Wolverine could be the perfect fit. Its performance at mid-range, compatibility with AR platforms, and manageable recoil make it an intriguing option for a variety of practical and recreational shooting applications.

A Niche Cartridge with Big Potential

A Niche Cartridge with Big Potential
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In the world of wildcat cartridges, the 277 Wolverine stands out as a compact, efficient round that offers the flexibility many shooters crave. While it requires a bit more commitment – particularly in terms of reloading and component sourcing – the payoff is a highly customizable, reliable cartridge that performs impressively in various shooting scenarios. For those willing to dive in, the 277 Wolverine is a solid investment that proves that sometimes, big things do indeed come in small packages.