[quote=Steve Redgwell]So, with the possible exception of folks hunting the plains, why aren't you using the 6.5 Grendel? It's a 6.5mm, is chambered for ARs and bolts, and uses 120 gr bullets. A little lighter than the 140s, but good for under 500 yd I think.[/quote
The Classic Swede is great as are many other fine 6.5 rounds. In the Grendel one must only read the forum dedicated to it to see its effectiveness.
That said, for a bolt rifle, the perfect ‘minimalist’ deer round and 6.5 just COULD BE the 6.5 BR 😉
Seriously you will gain about 150 FPS over the Grendel. 308 bolt face. Can run in a ‘micro’ sized short action if you wish. All the pleasantries of the Creedmoor but even less bark, recoil, and more bore and brass life. What’s not to like?
I will flatly say, for 300 yds (conservatively, 400 not out of the question) and under a 6.5BR in a handy carbine will do quite well running say 120 Ballistic Tips giving a nice trajectory vs anything needlessly heavier. Expect 2700-2800 with appropriate powders in a 19-21” bbl.
For a woods load (or anything under say 200-250 yds) a 100 TTSX would be very interesting as your ranges would keep velocity sufficiently high to get expansion, and penetration is without question. That said to me the round is PERFECT for 120’s. Trajectory will be hampered by 130-140’s and again, the 120 is Plenty and truth be told that applies to most game hunted up to 400 yds with 6.5’s, IMHO.
All that said no doubt a Grendel might get you there and a Creedmoor certainly will, but with factory rifles and ammo. But hey, for the handloading Loonies out there who want something different than those and the 6BR, it’s in my mind the remaining unsung hero.
Last edited by 65BR; 12/19/20.
