Thread: 6.5 v 7mm

First point is that in general cases for the 6.5 cal are smaller because grain for grain of powder they generate more pressure and more barrel erosion. So powder charge and kinetic energy are less than with the equivalent 7mm. Eg 260 Rem vs 7mm08. Its easier to build an accurate rifle in a lower power cartridge and easier to shoot it well.

The main thing is that for the same bullet weight you get better BC in. 6.5 which improves your probability for shot placement ( but only noticeable at > 300 m and if you use a rangefinder well).

Originally Posted by Bagheera

First point is that in general cases for the 6.5 cal are smaller because grain for grain of powder they generate more pressure and more barrel erosion. So powder charge and kinetic energy are less than with the equivalent 7mm. Eg 260 Rem vs 7mm08. Its easier to build an accurate rifle in a lower power cartridge and easier to shoot it well.

The main thing is that for the same bullet weight you get better BC in. 6.5 which improves your probability for shot placement ( but only noticeable at > 300 m and if you use a rangefinder well).

Recoil is massive for me for some reason, I get good results but it makes the preparation harder, zeroing, practice etc. I shot a sika hind at about 400 yards a while back with my mates 6.5x55 (143eldx @2700fps) and my only thought after letting it go was "no recoil", dropped the hind on the spot, I might work up a load and see where it goes.