{"id":1567,"date":"2023-09-07T15:39:13","date_gmt":"2023-09-07T15:39:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/?p=1567"},"modified":"2023-09-07T15:39:13","modified_gmt":"2023-09-07T15:39:13","slug":"6-5-prc-cartridge-guide-outdoor-life","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/?p=1567","title":{"rendered":"6.5 PRC Cartridge Guide | Outdoor Life"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"incArticle\">\n<div class=\"Article-disclosure\">\n<p><em>We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/affiliate-disclosure\/\">Learn More <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u203a<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"has-drop-cap\">The 6.5 PRC, officially introduced in 2018, has become popular for hunting big game and long-range shooting. The appeal of this short-mag, based on the Ruger .300 RCM, is easy to understand. It strikes a Goldilocks balance between large magnums, like the .300 Win. Mag., .300 Wby. Mag., and 7mm Rem. Mag., and the much maligned\u2014but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/evolution-65-creedmoor\/\">undeniably capable<\/a>\u20146.5 Creedmoor and its peers.<\/p>\n<p>Like many others I was quickly drawn to the 6.5 PRC\u2014which stands for Precision Rifle Cartridge\u2014and made it the basis for my ideal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/story\/guns\/ultimate-open-country-hunting-rifle\/\">open-country hunting rifle<\/a>. The 6.5 PRC\u2019s design allows it to propel a host of good heavy-for-caliber 6.5mm bullets at velocities that lend themselves to fine accuracy and decisive terminal performance. It\u2019s an excellent expression of the trends in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/guns\/modern-cartridge-design\/\">modern cartridge design<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Now the long-term success of the 6.5 PRC isn\u2019t guaranteed. We\u2019ve had a slew of cartridge introductions over the last 25 years that have fizzled. Among all the short-mags, for instance, only the .300 WSM retains a meaningful following. And who remembers the super-short mags and their brief moment in the spotlight? Plenty of other interesting cartridges likewise started with a flicker of interest, ultimately failing to catch fire with the shooting public at large. A partial list to illustrate the point includes the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/story\/hunting\/338-federal-best-deer-cartridge-youve-never-tried\/\">.338 Federal<\/a>, .17 Mach II, .17 WSM, .307 Marlin, .450 Marlin, .30 T\/C, .30 Remington AR, .338 RCM, the Remington Ultra Mags, and so on.<\/p>\n<p>That said, I think the 6.5 PRC has legs and its prospects for the future seem bright\u2014though the cartridge has some challenges and drawbacks.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><figcaption><i>SAAMI<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-5-prc-specs\">6.5 PRC Specs<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Bullet Diameter: 6.5mm\/.264 inches<\/li>\n<li>Case Length: 2.03 inches<\/li>\n<li>Overall Length: 2.755 to 2.955 inches<\/li>\n<li>Case head diameter: .532 inches (.540-inch bolt face)<\/li>\n<li>Parent Case: .300 Ruger Compact Magnum<\/li>\n<li>Maximum pressure: 65,000 psi<\/li>\n<li>Twist: 1:8 inches<\/li>\n<li>Typical bullet weight: 120 to 156 grains<\/li>\n<li>Typical velocity: 2,900 fps with a 147-grain bullet<\/li>\n<li>Year introduced: 2018<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-5-prc-history\">6.5 PRC History<\/h2>\n<p>Though unveiled in 2018, the 6.5 PRC had been in the works since 2013. The driving force behind its development was George Gardner, owner of GA Precision. He wanted to create a hard-hitting long-range round for hunters and competitive shooters, particularly those in the Precision Rifle Series. According to PRS rules, cartridges cannot have muzzle velocities in excess of 3,200 fps. In addition to that restriction, Gardner also wanted to run the cartridge through short-action receivers. These two parameters are why he decided on a 6.5 mm\/.264-caliber round. (As a side note it is interesting how no one in the PRS or NRL are shooting cartridges that push the 3,200-fps limit, instead favoring milder 6mm rounds like the 6 Dasher and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/story\/guns\/the-6gt-is-a-new-top-cartridge-in-the-precision-rifle-world\/\">6mm GT<\/a>.)<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI wanted the highest BC bullet you can push at 3,200 in a short action,\u201d Gardner said. \u201cThe 6s can be pushed that fast, but they have lower BCs. The 7 mils have higher BCs but can\u2019t be pushed at 3,200 fps in a short action. The lack of bullet selection in the .25 and .270 ruled those out\u2014so that\u2019s why I settled on the 6.5.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-5-saum-detour\">6.5 SAUM Detour<\/h3>\n<p>When considering a parent case for a 6.5 short mag, Gardner had three choices. He dismissed the Winchester Short Magnum family right away because its case capacity was larger than was needed. The Ruger Compact Magnum, which is made by Hornady, was his first pick. But back in 2013, when he approached Hornady to make a 6.5 short mag, they passed because they were already making as much brass as they could to satisfy the demand for ammo during those years of panic buying. That left Gardner with the Remington Short Action Ultra Mag. He was able to locate several hundred thousand pieces of 7 mm SAUM brass, and so the 6.5 SAUM\/4S was born.<\/p>\n<p>Compared to the 6.5 PRC, the 6.5 SAUM is about 50 fps faster, but the SAUM case has a rebated rim, which adds cost and can make reliable feeding more of a challenge.<\/p>\n<p>And though the 6.5 SAUM developed a following, as soon as Hornady had the bandwidth to produce the case Gardner wanted, he pivoted to the 6.5 PRC. \u201cThe PRC was just more commercially viable,\u201d Gardner said. \u201cIt works with a greater variety of powders and a broader range of guns and is a little more versatile than the 6.5 SAUM.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1306\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/07\/65prc.jpg\" alt=\"6.5 prc\" class=\"wp-image-260081\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A variety of ammo makers now load the 6.5 PRC.  <i>Alex Robinson<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-5-prc-in-the-field\">6.5 PRC in the Field<\/h3>\n<p>That versatility was evident as soon as people started hunting with it. I got to use the round before it was publicly announced, taking it on a mule deer hunt in Utah that showcased its virtues. The terrain I hunted included everything from open sage flats, to exposed rocky escarpments, to dense timber, to lung-busting mountains.<\/p>\n<p>I don\u2019t recall what my rifle weighed, but it was comfortable to carry over long distances. And once we spotted my buck my guide and I had to cover about a mile and a half as quickly as possible to get set up.<\/p>\n<p>That stalk turned into a prolonged waiting match as the buck bedded down with a handful of other deer about 450 yards from our position, which was among some boulders on a ridge. The ground dipped between us and the deer so we couldn\u2019t stalk any closer without getting busted.<\/p>\n<p>After a short eternity the buck got up and started moving away through the sage. He paused broadside for a moment and my shot with the then brand-new 143-grain ELD-X anchored him.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1171\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Snow-Alberta-65-PRC-hunt.jpeg\" alt=\"6.5 PRC rifle in the mountains of Alberta\" class=\"wp-image-260006\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 6.5 PRC is a standout mountain rifle cartridge. <i>John B. Snow<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-5-prc-ballistics\">6.5 PRC Ballistics<\/h2>\n<p>While there\u2019s nothing magic about the 6.5 PRC, it is possible to demonstrate the niche it fills with some numbers. Let\u2019s take that 143-grain ELD-X bullet I used. With a muzzle velocity around 2,900 fps and a 100-yard zero, its drop at 400 yards is 23 inches. Comparing that to a couple other high-performance cartridges\u2014a .308 Win. shooting Berger\u2019s 168-grain Hybrid Hunter at 2,680 fps and a 7mm Rem. Mag. shooting a 160-grain Nosler AccuBond at 3,000 fps\u2014we can see how the 6.5 stacks up rather favorably.<\/p>\n<p>On the one hand, it shoots flatter than the .308, while generating about the same felt recoil. On the other, it runs neck-and-neck with the 7mm Rem. Mag. in terms of drop at 400 yards\u2014even though the 7mm generates 32 percent more recoil.<\/p>\n<p>Thanks to the high BC of the 143 ELD-X, it retains more velocity at 400 than the other cartridges and that advantage will only become more significant at longer distances. You can see how it is less affected by a 10-mph crosswind at 400 yards, and how it retains its energy more efficiently downrange.<\/p>\n<p>I used 1000 foot-pounds of retained energy to illustrate the point. The .308 dips below that 1000-foot-pound threshold at 830 yards, and the 7mm Rem. Mag. does so at 985 yards. By contrast, the 6.5 PRC is out at 1085 yards before it drops to 1000 foot-pounds.<\/p>\n<p>Note that all these numbers were generated using the same rifle setup and environmental conditions.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cartridge<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>6.5 PRC<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>.308 Win.<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>7mm Rem. Mag.<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Bullet<\/td>\n<td>143-gr. ELD-X<\/td>\n<td>168-gr. Ber. Hybrid Hunter<\/td>\n<td>160-gr. AccuBond<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Ballistic Coefficient<\/td>\n<td>.315 G7<\/td>\n<td>.251 G7<\/td>\n<td>.244 G7<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Muzzle Velocity<\/td>\n<td>2910 fps<\/td>\n<td>2680 fps<\/td>\n<td>3000 fps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Muzzle Energy<\/td>\n<td>2688 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<td>2679 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<td>3197 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Felt Recoil<\/td>\n<td>17.82 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<td>17.01 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<td>23.58 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Velocity @ 400 yd.<\/td>\n<td>2456 fps<\/td>\n<td>2145 fps<\/td>\n<td>2414 fps<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Energy @ 400 yd.<\/td>\n<td>1915 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<td>1761 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<td>2069 ft.-lb.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Drop @ 400 yd.<\/td>\n<td>23.07 in.<\/td>\n<td>29.68 in.<\/td>\n<td>22.48 in.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>10 mph Drift @ 400 yd.<\/td>\n<td>7.18 in.<\/td>\n<td>10.27 in.<\/td>\n<td>8.75 in.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>1000 ft.-lb. Energy Threshold<\/td>\n<td>1085 yd.<\/td>\n<td>830 yd.<\/td>\n<td>985 yd.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Gittings-65-PRC-Comp-Shooting.jpeg\" alt=\"Chris Gittings shooting a 6.5 PRC in an ELR match in Wyoming.\" class=\"wp-image-260011\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Chris Gittings shooting a 6.5 PRC in an ELR match in Wyoming. <i>Rex Ribelin<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-going-long-with-the-6-5-prc\">Going Long with the 6.5 PRC<\/h3>\n<p>One thing to note with the 6.5 PRC is that as the range to the target increases it quickly leaves its competition in the dust. At 400 yards it is beginning to outpace the 7mm Rem. Mag. When it hits 800 or 1000 yards it has outclassed it and does a better job downrange than other magnum rounds like the .300 Win. Mag. or .300 Wby. Mag.<\/p>\n<p>For example, even when shooting a .300 Win. Mag. with an optimized bullet like the 178-grain ELD-X, the 143-grain ELD-X from the 6.5 PRC has less drop and drift at 1000 yards. Where the 178 has dropped 260 inches at 1000, the 143 has dropped 242 inches at that distance.<\/p>\n<p>And if you swap that 178 ELD-X with more common .300 Win. Mag. hunting bullets in the 150- to 180-grain class that disparity becomes more pronounced.<\/p>\n<p>Where the heavy-hitting .300s shine in ELR applications is with impact signature. A .300 PRC shooting a 220-grain A-Tip (which is one of my preferred ELR loads) will recoil harder than a 6.5 PRC and cause more shooter fatigue, but it is much easier to spot hits and misses at distances of a mile or more than with the 6.5 PRC.<\/p>\n<p><strong>READ NEXT: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/gear\/best-long-range-calibers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Best Long Range Calibers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-top-rifles-chambered-in-6-5-prc\">Top Rifles Chambered in 6.5 PRC<\/h2>\n<p>I\u2019ve shot quite a few rifles chambered in 6.5 PRC and, as a class, they\u2019ve all shot well. None have been dogs. Some have been exceptional.<\/p>\n<p>Each year the number of manufacturers offering 6.5 PRC rifles has steadily grown. For the time being the cartridge\u2019s prospects look good. Here are some of the best rifles in 6.5 PRC to choose from at the moment:<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-seekins-havak-hit\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=14619&amp;pw=281801&amp;ctc=OL-HT&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eurooptic.com%2FSeekins-Havak-HIT-Rifles.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Seekins Havak HIT<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=14619&amp;pw=281801&amp;ctc=OL-HT&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eurooptic.com%2FSeekins-Havak-HIT-Rifles.aspx\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Seekins-Havak-HIT.jpeg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Seekins-Havak-HIT.jpeg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Seekins Havak HIT\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The Havak HIT is a remarkable value and won a couple of awards in our annual gun test in 2022. This modular precision rifle is innovative, ergonomic, and incredibly accurate. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/guns\/seekins-havak-hit-review\/\">6.5 PRC Havak HIT I reviewed<\/a> averaged .542-inch five-shot groups with factory ammo. The chassis stock is minimalistic but functional. It folds for compact carry and adjusts for critical dimensions for a custom fit. The full-length ARCA rail on the fore-end incorporates Seekins\u2019s proprietary attachment system. And the cherry on top is that it can switch barrels and bolt heads in a flash to change calibers.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-seekins-havak-pro-hunter-2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=14619&amp;pw=281801&amp;ctc=OL-HT&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eurooptic.com%2FSeekins-Havak-Pro-Hunter-Rifles.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Seekins Havak Pro Hunter 2<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=14619&amp;pw=281801&amp;ctc=OL-HT&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eurooptic.com%2FSeekins-Havak-Pro-Hunter-Rifles.aspx\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/06\/30\/havak-pro-hunter-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/06\/30\/havak-pro-hunter-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Hunting Rifles photo\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This rifle took top honors in Outdoor Life\u2019s gun test when it was introduced and it remains one of the best values in a high-end technical rifle. One great innovation that Seekins incorporated into the 6.5 PRC model is the 3-round detachable carbon fiber magazine that can accommodate an overall cartridge length of 3.14 inches. This gives the shooter the option to run handloads with longer, heavier bullets and still be able to feed through the rifle\u2019s short-action design.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-proof-research-elevation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=16393&amp;pw=281801&amp;ctc=OL-HT&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.guns.com%2Ffirearms%2Frifles%2Fbolt-action%2Fproof-research-elevation-lightweight-hunter-6-5mm-creedmoor-bolt-action-24-barrel-new%3Fp%3D470981\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Proof Research Elevation<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.avantlink.com\/click.php?tt=cl&amp;mi=16393&amp;pw=281801&amp;ctc=OL-HT&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.guns.com%2Ffirearms%2Frifles%2Fbolt-action%2Fproof-research-elevation-lightweight-hunter-6-5mm-creedmoor-bolt-action-24-barrel-new%3Fp%3D470981\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2011\/07\/05\/Proof-Elevation.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2011\/07\/05\/Proof-Elevation.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Proof Research Elevation\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This lightweight hunter tips the scales right around 6 pounds and comes with a 24-inch carbon fiber barrel with a 1:7.5 twist in 6.5 PRC. It is built on an excellent Zermatt Arms Origin action, has a TriggerTech trigger, uses a BDL hinged floorplate on the magazine. Like other Proof rifles it has a \u00bd-inch accuracy guarantee. As an all-around premium hunting rifle it is an outstanding choice.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-proof-research-glacier-ti\"><a href=\"https:\/\/proofresearch.com\/rifles\/glacier-ti\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Proof Research Glacier Ti<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/proofresearch.com\/rifles\/glacier-ti\/\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2020\/12\/27\/Proof-Glacier-Ti-Lightweight-Mountain-Hunter.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2020\/12\/27\/Proof-Glacier-Ti-Lightweight-Mountain-Hunter.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"The Proof Glacier Ti Lightweight Mountain Hunter is one of the best rifles for mountain hunting.\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If you are in need of a true ultralight mountain rifle, the Proof Glacier Ti is a step above the pack\u2014though you\u2019ll pay for the privilege. Editor in chief Alex Robinson has been hunting with the Glacier Ti for the last year and we\u2019ve had a hard time prying the 5.5-pound carbon fiber wonder from his hands.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Alex-65-PRC-Ram.jpeg\" alt=\"Alex Robinson with a 6.5 PRC rifle from Proof Research on a Dall Sheep hunt\" class=\"wp-image-260007\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Editor-in-Chief Alex Robinson used a Proof Research Glacier Ti on this Dall Sheep.  <i>Alex Robinson<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>He put it to its intended use on a Dall sheep hunt, where he used it to take a beautiful ram at 100 yards with Federal\u2019s 130-grain Terminal Ascent. He\u2019s also shot a couple whitetails with it, both using Federal\u2019s 140-grain Fusion.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-browning-x-bolt-mountain-pro\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fbrowning-x-bolt-mountain-pro-spr-bolt-action-rifle%3FsearchTerm%3DBrowning%2520X-Bolt%2520Mountain%2520Pro\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Browning X-Bolt Mountain Pro<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fbrowning-x-bolt-mountain-pro-spr-bolt-action-rifle%3FsearchTerm%3DBrowning%2520X-Bolt%2520Mountain%2520Pro\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2011\/07\/05\/Browning-Xbolt-Mountain-Pro.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2011\/07\/05\/Browning-Xbolt-Mountain-Pro.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Browning Xbolt Mountain Pro\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Staff writer Tyler Freel has a lot of trigger time behind this rifle, both in 6.8 Western, which<a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/guns\/browning-x-bolt-mountain-pro-review\/\"> he reviewed at length<\/a>, and in 6.5 PRC. He carried the 6.5 PRC on a recent hunt in northern Alberta and used it to kill an impressive wolf. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"720\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/img_1105_720.jpeg\" alt=\"Staff writer Tyler Freel to this wolf in Northern Alberta with a 6.5 PRC.\" class=\"wp-image-260001\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Staff writer Tyler Freel to this wolf in Northern Alberta with a 6.5 PRC. <i>Tyler Freel<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The rifle weighs about 6.25 pounds, so it is portable, and comes with a durable and well-designed carbon fiber stock. The 24-inch barrel is made of spiral fluted stainless steel. It comes with a trigger that can be adjusted from 3 to 5 pounds.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-springfield-armory-waypoint-2020\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fspringfield-armory-model-2020-waypoint-bolt-action-rifle-with-adjustable-stock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Springfield Armory Waypoint 2020<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fspringfield-armory-model-2020-waypoint-bolt-action-rifle-with-adjustable-stock\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2022\/05\/19\/SpringfieldWaypoint_ProductCard.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2022\/05\/19\/SpringfieldWaypoint_ProductCard.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Accurate enough for long-range target shooting yet light enough to carry in the field.\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This rifle, introduced during the pandemic, was <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/story\/gear\/the-springfield-armory-model-2020-waypoint-is-an-accurate-hunting-rifle\/\">Springfield\u2019s first foray into bolt-action rifles<\/a>. I took it on a deer hunt in Colorado where my buddy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/story\/hunting\/big-whitetail-deer-bucks-colorado\/\">Cody Arnold and I both killed fantastic whitetail bucks<\/a> with it in 6.5 PRC. Both shots were over 500 yards in windy conditions, but that\u2019s where the 6.5 PRC excels. <\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Arnold-CO-65-PRC-buck.jpeg\" alt=\"Cody Arnold with a heavy Colorado whitetail buck taken with a 6.5 PRC at 565 yards.\" class=\"wp-image-259999\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Cody Arnold with a heavy Colorado whitetail buck taken with a 6.5 PRC at 565 yards. <i>John B. Snow<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>This rifle is ideally suited to Western hunting. It is accurate and has lots of smart features. It comes with five QD cups on the stock, M-Lok slots on the fore-end, and feeds from AICS pattern magazines. In its lightest trim, with a carbon fiber barrel, it weighs just over 6.5 pounds.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gunwerks-nexus\"><a href=\"https:\/\/brownells.dts2xn.net\/c\/2536217\/60594\/1625?subId1=OL-RU&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brownells.com%2Fguns%2Frifles%2Fbolt-action-rifles%2Fnexus-rifles%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Gunwerks Nexus<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/brownells.dts2xn.net\/c\/2536217\/60594\/1625?subId1=OL-RU&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brownells.com%2Fguns%2Frifles%2Fbolt-action-rifles%2Fnexus-rifles%2F\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/07\/nexus.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/07\/nexus.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"nexus\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This is a fascinating new rifle from Gunwerks that I\u2019ve been shooting for the last few months. It blends high-tech innovation (switch-barrel design, integrated ARCA rail, recessed Picatinny rail section, carbon-fiber barrel) with old-school touches like the leather inserts on the grip and cheek piece and the three-position safety on the bolt shroud.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-allterra-arms-mountain-shadow-steel\"><a href=\"https:\/\/allterraarms.com\/rifles\/the-mountain-shadow-steel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">AllTerra Arms Mountain Shadow Steel<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/allterraarms.com\/rifles\/the-mountain-shadow-steel\/\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2022\/10\/05\/IMG_0067.jpeg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2022\/10\/05\/IMG_0067.jpeg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Allterra Arms sheep rifle\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If you want to pull out all the stops and go with a full custom build, take a look at the rifles from AllTerra Arms. I\u2019ve got their Mountain Shadow Steel in 6.5 PRC that I\u2019ve carried on a few hunts, including a grueling two-week hunt for bighorns in Alberta last fall. The rifle has lots of trick touches to enhance performance and accuracy. To appreciate all that this build brings to the party, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/guns\/allterra-arms-mountain-shadow-steel-review\/\">check out this review<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-nosler-model-21\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nosler.com\/model-21-rifles.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nosler Model 21<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nosler.com\/model-21-rifles.html\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2022\/06\/27\/nosler21final.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2022\/06\/27\/nosler21final.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Best hunting rifle.\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The Model 21 was an instant hit with the Outdoor Life gun test team. I took an early version chambered in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/guns\/nosler-21-hunting-rifle-review\/\">.375 H&amp;H to Africa<\/a>, where it performed like a champ, but the 6.5 PRC version is a better all-around option for North American hunters. Executive editor Natalie Krebs is a case in point. She\u2019s used her Model 21 in 6.5 PRC on a DIY hunt to kill an elk of a lifetime in Utah and it has become her go-to deer rifle as well.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"720\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Krebs-MO-65-PRC-buck.jpeg\" alt=\"Missouri buck killed with 6.5 PRC rifle\" class=\"wp-image-260016\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Executive editor Natalie Krebs killed this Missouri buck with a Nosler 21 in 6.5 PRC. <i>Natalie Krebs<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>While the lines of the Model 21 are undeniably traditional, under the hood it has modern elements like tool-less takedown for the bolt, a keyed recoil lug that won\u2019t slip, and other touches.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-christensen-arms-ridgeline\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fchristensen-arms-ridgeline-bolt-action-rifle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Christensen Arms Ridgeline<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fchristensen-arms-ridgeline-bolt-action-rifle\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2020\/12\/30\/Christensen-Arms-Ridgeline.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2020\/12\/30\/Christensen-Arms-Ridgeline.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"The Christensen Arms Ridgeline is one of the best rifles for mountain hunting.\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>We\u2019ve had good experiences with the Christensen Arms Ridgeline. It is a solid choice in that $2,000-price range. The 6.5 PRC version of the rifle has a 24-inch carbon fiber barrel with a 1:8 twist and comes with a radial muzzle brake with a 5\/8-24 thread. The Ridgeline features a TriggerTech trigger in the stainless-steel action. The carbon-fiber stock has bedding pillars for a strong, repeatable connection between action and stock.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-savage-110-apex-storm\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fsavage-110-apex-storm-xp-bolt-action-rifle-with-scope\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Savage 110 Apex Storm<\/a><\/h3>\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple\" data-id=\"ProductCardSimple\">\n<div class=\"ProductCardSimple-image\">\n                          <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2Fshop%2Fen%2Fsavage-110-apex-storm-xp-bolt-action-rifle-with-scope\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/07\/110.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" data-image=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/07\/110.jpg?auto=webp&amp;width=800&amp;crop=16:10,offset-x50\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"800\" height=\"auto\" alt=\"Savage Apex Storm\"\/><br \/>\n                      <\/figure>\n<p>                  <\/a>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>This is a budget-priced package based on Savage\u2019s eternal 110 action. For $820 you get a solid rifle topped with a Vortex 3-9\u00d740 Crossfire II scope that has a BDC holdover reticle. The synthetic stock is durable, functional and adjusts for length of pull. The AccuTrigger system is user adjustable as well. The rifle is designed with a free-floating barrel and free-floating bolt head that both help with accuracy.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Fed-130-TA-65-PRC.jpeg\" alt=\"Federal 6.5 PRC ammo loaded with the 130-grain Terminal Ascent bullet.\" class=\"wp-image-260002\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Federal 6.5 PRC ammo loaded with the 130-grain Terminal Ascent bullet. <i>John B. Snow<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-5-prc-ammo\">6.5 PRC Ammo<\/h2>\n<p>In the beginning there were only two factory loads for the 6.5 PRC, Hornady\u2019s 143-grain ELD-X and the 147-grain ELD Match. Both are still great options for hunting and target shooting, respectively. Since then, the variety of 6.5 PRC ammunition has exploded, and depending on your needs (and budget) there are many offerings to choose among.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-hornady\">Hornady<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-federal\">Federal<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-berger\">Berger<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-remington\">Remington<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-winchester\">Winchester<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-norma\">Norma<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-browning\">Browning<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-nosler\">Nosler<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-barnes\">Barnes<\/h3>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-black-hills-ammunition\">Black Hills Ammunition<\/h3>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-reloading-the-6-5-prc\">Reloading the 6.5 PRC<\/h2>\n<p>The 6.5 PRC is a fun and easy cartridge to reload thanks to a wide range of excellent available components. The list of quality .264-inch caliber bullets probably merits an article on its own. And when it comes to brass and powder there\u2019s no shortage there either.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-gittings-one-and-done\">Gittings One and Done<\/h3>\n<p>If you want to go the easy route for one load that will work well for hunting and target shooting, follow my friend and shooting partner Chris Gitting\u2019s lead. He\u2019s used this load to shoot numerous elk and to place very well in ELR shooting competitions.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bullet: Berger 156-grain EOL<\/li>\n<li>Brass: Lapua<\/li>\n<li>Primer: 215M (Gittings opts for magnum primers in the 6.5 PRC)<\/li>\n<li>Powder: 57.5 grains <a href=\"https:\/\/brownells.dts2xn.net\/c\/2536217\/60594\/1625?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brownells.com%2Freloading%2Fcomponents%2Fpowder%2Fhodgdon-powder-h1000%2F\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">H1000<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>With a 26-inch barrel shoot for a target velocity around 2920 fps. Start with a lower powder charge, of course, and work your way up to that speed. Once there, call it good. From a 24-inch barrel, lower your target velocity to 2890 fps or so.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1453\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/143-ELD-X-bullet.jpeg\" alt=\"143-grain ELD-X 6.5 PRC bullet taken from deer\" class=\"wp-image-260035\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hornady\u2019s 143-grain ELD-X is one of the best hunting bullets in the 6.5 PRC. <i>John B. Snow<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-6-5-prc-bullets\">Best 6.5 PRC Bullets<\/h3>\n<p>We\u2019ve already touched on a number of the best projectiles to use in the 6.5 PRC. Bullet weights range from 120 to 156 grains for the 6.5 PRC and there\u2019s no reason not to take advantage of the cartridge\u2019s ability to drive long, sleek bullets at speeds around 2900 fps.<\/p>\n<p>For match shooting the Hornady 147-grain ELD-M, Berger 156-grain EOL, Vapor Trail 139-grain BTHP, Nosler 140-grain RDF, Lapua 139-grain Scenar, and Sierra HPBT in 140-, 144- and 150-grain weights, are among the best.<\/p>\n<p>Hunters using traditional lead bullets should look at the Nosler 140-grain AccuBond, Hornady 143-grain ELD-X, Sierra 140-grain Tipped Gameking, Berger 140-grain Hunter, Berger 156-grain EOL, Federal 130-grain Terminal Ascent, Speer 140-grain Polymer Tipped, and Nosler 140-grain Ballistic Tip.<\/p>\n<p>If you want to go non-leaded, the Barnes 127-grain LRX, Hornady 130-grain CX, Nosler 120-grain E-Tip, and Lehigh Defense 130-grain Controlled Chaos are good picks.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-6-5-prc-brass\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2FSearchDisplay%23q%3D6.5%2520PRC%2520Brass\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Best 6.5 PRC Brass<\/a><\/h3>\n<p>High-quality brass for loading the 6.5 PRC is available from <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.milehighshooting.com\/ammo-reloading\/reloading\/brass\/6-5mm-brass\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Lapua<\/a>, ADG, Peterson Cartridge, and Hornady. You won\u2019t go wrong with any of them.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-powders-for-reloading-the-6-5-prc\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2FSearchDisplay%23q%3Dpowder%26f-subcategory%3DReloading%2520Powder%26f-type%3DRifle%2520Powder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Best Powders for Reloading the 6.5 PRC<\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Again, there\u2019s a plethora of options for reloaders when it comes to the 6.5 PRC. Powders like H1000, Retumbo, RL 26, RL 22, Accurate Magpro, Winchester StaBall HD, and IMR 4831 are worth considering. In the Vihtavuori world, look at N170, N565, N570, and even 24N41.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-primers-for-the-6-5-prc\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2FSearchDisplay%23q%3Dprimers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Primers for the 6.5 PRC<\/a><\/h3>\n<p>Most reloading data suggests using large rifle primers, though you can experiment with magnum primers too. I mostly shoot Federal 210Ms, but Federal 210s, Winchester Large Rifle, CCI No. 200, and Remington 9 \u00bd primers will all work.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-6-5-prc-reloading-dies\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cabelas.xhuc.net\/c\/2536217\/185932\/2623?subId1=OL-HT&amp;sharedId=6-5-prc&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabelas.com%2FSearchDisplay%23q%3D6.5%2520PRC%2520Reloading%2520Dies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow\">Best 6.5 PRC Reloading Dies<\/a><\/h3>\n<p>You can get quality die sets from Hornady, RCBS, and Redding. I\u2019ve used them all and like them quite a bit. You can also go the premium route if you want to splurge and pick up a<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/shortactioncustoms.com\/product-category\/modular-sizing-dies\/\" rel=\"noopener\"> Short Action Customs Modular Sizing Die<\/a>, which is the cat\u2019s ass.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-dimension=\"landscape\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/uploads\/2023\/09\/06\/Custom-65-PRC-Hunting.jpeg\" alt=\"A custom-built 6.5 PRC on a Montana elk hunt.\" class=\"wp-image-260005\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A custom-built 6.5 PRC on a Montana elk hunt. <i>Chris Gittings<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-5-prc-pros-and-cons\">6.5 PRC Pros and Cons<\/h2>\n<p>The pros of the 6.5 PRC are many. It\u2019s modern, efficient design makes it inherently accurate, and it is optimized for long-range work. It can leverage many of the best hunting and match bullets on the market today and is ideal for all non-dangerous game.<\/p>\n<p>As its popularity has grown, so has the availability of rifles and ammunition. Early adopters might have been concerned over the ability to find ammunition, but that is no longer an issue.<\/p>\n<p>The 6.5 PRC is also simple to reload and as the pinch on components continues to diminish, reloaders will find it easy to keep their presses running.<\/p>\n<p>In terms of the cartridge\u2019s cons, the major one has to do with its overall length. Most rifle makers have built their 6.5 PRCs on short-action designs. Many short-action receivers and magazines can only accommodate cartridges up to 2.8 inches in length or just a hair longer. Some stretch that to over 2.9 inches.<\/p>\n<p>So when loading the 6.5 PRC long to take full advantage of the cartridge, it won\u2019t run in some of these shorter actions. That\u2019s why some 6.5 PRCs are built on standard long (.30\/06-length) actions. There are also medium-length actions that split the difference. For instance, the action on my Ultimate Open Country Rifle is a Defiance XM medium-length action, which can accept magazines for cartridges measuring 3.25 inches and is perfect for the 6.5 PRC but isn\u2019t very common among factory rifles.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<p><strong>What is the largest grain bullet for 6.5 PRC?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Currently, Berger\u2019s 156-grain EOL bullet is the heaviest bullet that\u2019s in common use with the 6.5 PRC. The sweet spot for the cartridge are bullets weighing 140 grains or more, though there are good options from 120 to 130 grains too.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why is 6.5 PRC so popular?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The 6.5 PRC takes advantage of today\u2019s best bullets and our understanding of modern cartridge design to deliver long-range performance in a cartridge with moderate recoil. That, coupled with its fine accuracy, has driven its popularity.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What size is a 6.5 PRC?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The overall length of the 6.5 PRC runs from 2.8 to 2.955 inches, though some handloaders load the round a bit longer than that.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Does the 6.5 PRC require a long action?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Since the overall SAAMI length of the 6.5 PRC is 2.955 inches, the cartridge won\u2019t run in every short-action receiver on the market, some of which top out at 2.8 inches. In those cases a long- or medium-length action is called for.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong>How many rounds will a 6.5 PRC barrel last?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The 6.5 PRC is a high-performance cartridge but not a real barrel burner. Assuming you don\u2019t beat the snot out of your hunting rig you should get at least 2,000 rounds out of a barrel and, with proper care, maybe more. Competition shooters who run their rifles hard, and who need peak performance, will probably look to replace barrels around 1,500 rounds.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How far can a 6.5 PRC shoot accurately?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The 6.5 PRC is effective for ELR applications, meaning it can make hits at 2,000 yards or more. Even regular 6.5 PRC rifles\u2014assuming they are well made\u2014are fully capable on targets beyond 1,200 yards.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts-on-the-6-5-prc\">Final Thoughts on the 6.5 PRC<\/h2>\n<p>When choosing a hunting rifle there\u2019s always going to be a contingent for whom more equals more. These are the folks that happily shoot whitetails with their .300 magnums and would never dream of tackling a larger animal like an elk, moose, or big bear with something that didn\u2019t rock their world when they pulled the trigger. They would probably still feel undergunned with a 6.5 PRC.<\/p>\n<p>But for the rest of us, the 6.5 PRC is among the best choices available. It avoids the stigma associated with its smaller sibling and propels those wonderful high-BC 6.5 bullets about 200 fps faster than the cartridge which shall not be named.<\/p>\n<p>Its recoil is on par with the .308 Winchester, making it manageable for all shooters. And it shoots flat and hits like a sledgehammer\u2014or at least like a 3-pound splitting maul\u2014at distance.<\/p>\n<p>Whereas the interest in most cartridges built on the short-magnum principle soon faded, it seems the 6.5 PRC is destined to join the ranks of those that hang around for the long haul.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><script type=\"text\/javascript\" async src=\"https:\/\/connect.facebook.net\/en_US\/sdk.js#xfbml=1&#038;version=v3.2\" id='facebook-js-js'><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outdoorlife.com\/guns\/6-5-prc\/\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More \u203a The 6.5 PRC, officially introduced in 2018, has become popular for hunting big game and long-range shooting. The appeal of this short-mag, based on the Ruger .300 RCM, is easy to understand. It strikes a Goldilocks [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1568,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-1567","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gun-news"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1567","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1567"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1567\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1568"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1567"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1567"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/americangunpeople.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1567"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}