21" can be a Swede spot wink In a compromise of handiness in a SA 6.5, I would not be afraid to go down to 19, and some have used 16-17 with much success, in the field on deer sized game, afar. Blast, one must decide. 20 I like in BR-308 sized cases...and is what I have my 6.5 L cut down to, as it was 22.5 originally.....I like it better now. Blast - modest.