Gunsmithing 6.5x55 barrel length for Precision rifle

[NY700]

Currently I have a semi custom tikka sporter in 6.5x55. The barrel had been cut down to 16”. I’m obviously sacrificing a bit of speed in this configuration especial with 140gr and 142gr.

I’m thinking of rebarrelling, how long should I go. My plan is to be able to shoot some local precision matches. Some bars cases but not a ton. I don’t shoot suppressed, so that extralength isn’t an issue.

What are your thoughts 22”,24”,26”??

 

[fdkay]

I would go with a 24" tube.

 

[sgtsmmiii]

I would go with a 24", also. That cartridge is very efficient, so you'd probably not gain significantly with a longer barrel.

 

[W54/XM-388]

29" to 32"

 

[Vargmat]

28" minimum.

 

[NY700]

28” 29” 32” ?? Really?

 

[W54/XM-388]

If you are doing target shooting, the 6.5x55 loves long barrels to get maximum velocity and can then use slightly slower burning powders.

 

[101stinfantry]

I agree 26" minimum. Heck, I run 26" on my 6.5 CM.

 

[NY700]

I had picked up a modified Krueger #15 medium Palma barrel 1-8 that will finish At 26” and .835” diameter. Should I just stick with that!

 

[fdkay]

I had picked up a modified Krueger #15 medium Palma barrel 1-8 that will finish At 26” and .835” diameter. Should I just stick with that!

Nothing wrong with that.
It will be a bit heavy to carry around, but, you can always workout more.

 

[Rthur]

As long as you can navigate the barricades with.
Remember a brake or a can will add some.


R

 

[Vargmat]

My experience is drawn from my previous Sauer 200 STR with a 29,2" barrel which I also had threaded for a suppressor. That rifle was long and not something I would use for PRS type shooting. It was used for prone position, precision shooting and it was great.
It had no problems shooting 139 grain Scenars at 2975fps, and I was a bit below maximum powder charge. I shot the smallest group I have ever shot with that rifle, the group measured slightly above 4mm, at 100 meters.
To keep things more practical, I would actually go down to 26", but never below that, for the 6,5x55 Swede.

 

[NY700]

Sounds like 26” it is, I can always go shorter later if I find it too long to deal with.