Thread: The Six and a half Swede.

Originally Posted by Lambie

Question,
Would I be pushing my luck to get a 140gr going at 2700 fps? The rifle is a Ruger M77 Mk2, it was a closet rifle before I got hold of it. The 6.5x55 cartridge has always intrigued me, and when I got the chanced to grab a modern rifle in that caliper, I did. So now it's load development time, and with the help of the graph tip that Granpamac gave the other day, I'll be heading for, about 48gr of 2213 to achieve this, is this out of the question? So far there is no signs of pressure but I'm only approaching 2600 fps at the moment. Some may ask why am I using 2213, simply, I have a kilo of it, and this we properly be the only rifle I'll use it in.
Any help or suggestions will be much appreciated.

Greetings @Lambie,
You have set out on an interesting journey. Data for the 6.5 Swede is all over the place but I have found that the Hodgdon/ ADI data to be close to my chronographing although low pressure at least with the softer projectiles. Harder projectiles, like the Nosler LRAB will drive both velocity and pressure up. You should be able to achieve 2,700 fps with your AR2213SC and 140 grain projectiles. If your projectiles are one of the softer cup and core types this will take more powder than the harder ones. Have a look at the on line Nosler data.
One note of caution is that both of the die sets I have for the 6.5x55 (Lyman and Redding) set the shoulder back way too far for decent case life in the four rifles I have checked. This includes one Ruger. If you FL size with the die down hard on the shell holder case life may be short. You may need to set up your FL die carefully to correct this. One of the Hornady head space comparator sets that clamp onto your calliper is a great help in this. Please ask questions and PM me if you prefer.
Regards Grandpamac.