If I may be so bold, I believe the discussion, so to speak ,was referring to the 6.5 Creedmoor, not a modern 6.5x55 SE.
When the CM can deliver a 160 gr bullet to any animal, that becomes another matter. That's the bullet that sets the 6.5 SE far apart from the CM. Even a 140 at 2800 MV out of a modern Swede makes it a viable Elk round, but there are other cartridges that deliver 140 and 160 gr bullets more effectively than even the 6.5x55 .. IMHO
No need for 160 grain bullets in 6.5mm for killing elk at all, when a 120 grain monometal such as the TTSX will penetrate every bit as deeply (if not more!) and give a flatter trajectory out to all reasonable hunting distances.
I've taken six elk with a 6.5mm 120 grain Barnes bullet out to ranges of 325 yards. Have never caught a single one. A Creedmoor can handle a 120 at pretty close to 3K and is a perfect vehicle for delivering that bullet.
I am actually excited to try the 127 Barnes LRX out of my 6.5 Creedmoor this fall on my elk hunts in Colorado and Montana. I am hoping it will be the best all-around bullet for that cartridge, and accuracy is looking good so far.
I certainly won't disagree with any one who has taken six Elk with the CM. That's a choice you made and it's obviously working out for you. That is commendable.
My intent was not to diss the Creedmoor. It is a fine cartridge in it's own right. I have shot one and I loved it and will likely end up with one myself.
As an ideal cartridge for larger game such as Elk, I still believe the CM and the Swede have their share of limitations, but as you have shown, in the right hands, they can be very effective.
All things being equal, my choice still remains a much larger caliber with heavier bullets.. a choice that is obviously not too popular on this thread... but it is a choice based solely on my personal experiences. Not worth starting a feud over.
I wish you every success in the upcoming season. I'm sure you and your CM will get the job done .. and thanks for your much kinder response.
