Description
The Browning BAR ShortTrac SA 270 WSM 23″ Barrel, Synthetic Stock MOBUC, 3rd is a gas-operated, semi-automatic hunting rifle designed for reliable, fast follow-up shots. It’s a modern, budget-conscious iteration of the classic BAR, chambered in the flat-shooting 270 Winchester Short Magnum, featuring a lightweight synthetic stock and a 23-inch barrel for a great balance of power and handling.
Key Features
- Gas-Operated Semi-Auto System: Smoother recoil and faster target reacquisition than a bolt-action.
- 270 Winchester Short Magnum Chambering: Delivers high velocity and energy for medium to large game at extended ranges.
- MOBUC Synthetic Stock: Durable, weather-resistant, and lightweight for tough hunting conditions.
- Short Action (SA) Design: Compared to long-action BARs, this means a shorter, quicker bolt throw and a lighter overall rifle.
- Detachable Box Magazine: Allows for easy unloading and quick reloading in the field.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 270 Winchester Short Magnum (270 WSM) |
| Barrel Length | 23 inches |
| Action Type | Gas-operated semi-automatic |
| Stock Material | Synthetic MOBUC (Mossy Oak Brush) |
| Magazine Capacity | 3+1 rounds |
| Overall Length | Approx. 43.5 inches |
Here’s the thing—the 270 WSM is a serious cartridge. It pushes a 130-grain bullet at over 3200 fps, giving you a laser-like trajectory that minimizes holdover. This rifle weighs in around 7.5 lbs, which is manageable for all-day carries in the Ozarks. At a price of $1171.23, it sits in a competitive spot between basic bolt-actions and premium semi-autos, offering a unique value proposition for the hunter who wants semi-auto speed without breaking the bank. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, and is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Rifle Is For
This BAR ShortTrac is built for the practical hunter who values a quick second shot. Think deer hunting in dense timber where a fast follow-up might be needed, or prairie dog towns where you’re engaging multiple targets. It’s also a solid choice for shooters sensitive to recoil, as the gas system soaks up a good portion of the 270 WSM’s kick compared to a lightweight bolt gun. If you’ve ever fumbled a bolt under pressure, the semi-auto function is a real benefit. That said, it’s not a precision benchrest rifle—it’s a tool for field shooting at typical hunting distances.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The primary advantage is the semi-automatic action for rapid shooting. The synthetic stock is virtually maintenance-free and stands up to rain, mud, and bumps. The 270 WSM is a highly effective cartridge for most North American game. The design is drop-in ready—no gunsmithing required to get it field-ready.
Cons: Semi-autos are generally less inherently accurate than a good bolt-action, though more than accurate enough for hunting. They can be slightly more complex to clean. Ammo for 270 WSM is more expensive and less common than standard .270 Winchester or .308. The rifle is also slightly heavier than some ultralight bolt-actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does this compare to a Browning BAR Mark 3?
A: The ShortTrac is a more recent, streamlined version. It uses a short-action design for calibers like the 270 WSM, often has a lighter synthetic stock, and typically comes at a lower price point than the more traditionally styled Mark 3 models, making it a better “bang-for-buck” hunting tool.
Q: What scope base does it use?
A: The Browning BAR ShortTrac uses a standard Picatinny rail interface. This means it’s compatible with a huge range of popular scope mounts and rings from brands like Leupold, Warne, and Talley, giving you immense flexibility in optic choice and mounting height.
Q: Is the 270 WSM suitable for elk?</n
A: With proper bullet selection and within reasonable ranges (say, inside 300 yards), the 270 WSM is a capable elk cartridge. It outperforms the standard .270 Win. However, many hunters prefer heavier bullets from calibers like .300 WSM or 7mm Rem Mag for larger game like elk, especially at longer distances.
For the hunter seeking the proven reliability of the Browning BAR system in a modern, value-focused package, the ShortTrac in 270 WSM presents a compelling case. Its blend of fast-handling semi-auto performance and a potent, flat-shooting cartridge makes it a serious contender for tough Missouri whitetail or Western hunts. See the full details on our site.
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