6.5 PRC what bullets fit SA?

[Gil P.]

Asking about your 6.5 PRC set up, which bullets, which mag, and which action length.

 

[b6graham]

Accurate or alpha wsm
Any bullets (freebore dependent but factory is 2.95 or so so mag length)
Meant for short action otherwise there are better options

 

[Gil P.]

I'm thinking if I can get Berger 140s to 3000 fps + and still fit in a short action, I would be happy.

 

[Steel head]

Considering it’s the same length as a 260 case and I can easily run 147’s in my 260 with ARC or other roomy SA AI type mags I’d say most any reasonable bullet is fair game for 6.5 prc in a SA.

 

[Gil P.]

Good to know, I didn't look up the case dimensions. Which brass do you recommend? I see Gunwerks, Hornady,and ADG sell brass.

 

[Macca]

Bertram makes 6.5 PRC brass also.
I’d be curious to hear of anyone’s experience with it.

 

[BigTex]

I'm thinking if I can get Berger 140s to 3000 fps + and still fit in a short action, I would be happy.

During my recent load workup for my 6.5 creedmoor I saw damn near 2900fps with Berger 140s, though I settled on a node around 2800fps. My 6.5x284 cranks them out at around 3080fps, but I had them at 3200 at the top end and my .260 gets 2850fps. I don't think you'll have any trouble finding 3000fps with Berger 140s.

 

[Sticks]

Factory Hornady 147s and my RL26 reloads (also 147 eld and below max) are both clocking 3020 out of a 26" with a COAL of 2.95. I could run faster but I have a speed limit at the one match that I shoot. 140s should be easy to 3100+.

 

[nick338]

My buddy runs 147 eld and 150 smk at mag length with no problem. I'll see if I can get more info.

 

[nick338]

So he runs a Surgeon action with Accurate 300 WSM and Alpha type 4 mags. Best load to date is with 147's at 3150 and 2.950. Has
run the 150 smk at 3110 at 2.960 but had slightly better accuracy at 3.009 and single feed. That's all the info at have at this time.

 

[Dthomas3523]

Before I wander into the 6.5prc realm, on a standard SA, with wsm mags, I should be able to run 147 eldm factory ammo without a problem, correct?

 

[b6graham]

Before I wander into the 6.5prc realm, on a standard SA, with wsm mags, I should be able to run 147 eldm factory ammo without a problem, correct?

yup thats the goal. little less capacity than SAUM but bullets in better place at neck/shoulder

 

[BCX]

Correct factory 147 is loaded to 2.950 and runs great in a Accurate Wsm or Alpha type 4 mag. Very accurate factory load w a .188 freebore.

 

[BCX]

95% of my Hornady brass weighs in at 219ish grains. I’m very impressed w Hornady 6.5 PRC at this point.

 

[BCX]

Guys the only problem you might run into w converting a 308 length action is notching the feed ramp. I would order a WSM Action which should already have the feed ramp notched. 6.5 PRC runs perfect from my Surgeon WSM Action!!

 

[BCX]

Also might need a different bolt stop w a 308 length action conversation.

 

[Hawk in WY]

Correct factory 147 is loaded to 2.950 and runs great in a Accurate Wsm or Alpha type 4 mag. Very accurate factory load w a .188 freebore.

I would be interested In how much of the bullet you think is in contact with the neck not counting the boat tail.

Thank you for the information. I’m looking for a maximum COAL.

 

[b6graham]

Guys the only problem you might run into w converting a 308 length action is notching the feed ramp. I would order a WSM Action which should already have the feed ramp notched. 6.5 PRC runs perfect from my Surgeon WSM Action!!

besides factory R700s, this shouldnt be an issue

 

[Gil P.]

Thanks for all the replies. I've got a couple more questions:
Whats the consensus on freebore length?
What twist rate?

 

[SAMR]

I'm also interested in the 6.5 PRC. If reloading, is their enough room in the case to seat longer bullets deeper to save OAL? Would it be possible to open up a magazine well to get a little more space?

 

[nick338]

Thanks for all the replies. I've got a couple more questions:
Whats the consensus on freebore length?
What twist rate?

There are 2 reamers that I am aware of. The .188 freebore is the one you want if you want to run magazines and as far as twist a 1-7.5 or 1-8 will run anything currently available.

 

[b6graham]

There are 2 reamers that I am aware of. The .188 freebore is the one you want if you want to run magazines and as far as twist a 1-7.5 or 1-8 will run anything currently available.

yup. 6.5 creed with an 8 so adding speed would only add stability

 

[nick338]

BCX has had excellent accuracy with a 1-7 but we are also down at sea level so it may not be necessary for anyone at decent elevation.

 

[Gil P.]

There are 2 reamers that I am aware of. The .188 freebore is the one you want if you want to run magazines and as far as twist a 1-7.5 or 1-8 will run anything currently available.

Got it, thank you.