.277 Fury Load Data

The .277 Fury is a modern cartridge developed by SIG Sauer, making waves in the ammunition world due to its unique construction and innovative design features. Its origins can be traced back to the United States military’s Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program, which aimed to find a replacement for the standard-issue 5.56x45mm NATO. Introduced around 2019, the .277 Fury (also known as 6.8x51mm by the U.S. military) was conceived to offer enhanced performance, such as greater range, improved accuracy, and superior terminal ballistics compared to traditional service calibers. The cartridge is distinguished by its hybrid case design, featuring a brass body with a stainless steel base, which allows it to safely handle exceptionally high chamber pressures—up to 80,000 psi—far exceeding conventional cartridges.

In terms of application, the .277 Fury is highly versatile and appeals to both military forces and civilian shooters alike. Its high-pressure capability and impressive ballistics make it well-suited for long-distance shooting, tactical applications, and even hunting. For competitive shooters and target enthusiasts, the cartridge provides a flat trajectory and superior energy retention over extended distances. Meanwhile, its incorporation into modern sporting rifles—such as the SIG Cross and SIG MCX Spear—makes the .277 Fury a great fit for those seeking next-generation performance in a familiar platform. Reloaders appreciate its unique construction and the opportunity to experiment with various bullet weights and powders, though they must pay careful attention to brass preparation and case life due to the high operating pressures.

When it comes to hunting, the .277 Fury stands out as a potent choice for a wide range of North American big game species. The cartridge’s high velocity and energy make it an excellent option for deer, antelope, black bear, and feral hogs, as well as being suitable for elk and similar-sized game at responsible distances. Its ability to maintain velocity and energy at longer ranges translates to effective and ethical kills with proper shot placement. In target shooting, the .277 Fury’s ballistics compare favorably with established long-range cartridges, offering shooters a high degree of accuracy and downrange authority.

For reloaders, typical bullet weights for the .277 Fury range from 135 to 150 grains, although lighter or heavier projectiles may become available as the cartridge gains popularity. Bullets in the 135–140 grain range offer excellent velocity and flat trajectories, while heavier projectiles maximize retained energy and penetration for larger game or extended distances. The Fury’s distinctive hybrid case presents both challenges and opportunities for handloading—case capacity is generous, but reloading components and load data are still being developed as the cartridge gains wider commercial acceptance. Its relatively high bore-to-case expansion ratio, combined with modern projectile designs, enable shooters to tailor loads precisely for their intended use, making the .277 Fury an exciting new caliber for those interested in high-performance rifle cartridges with military pedigree.