Re-barrel to 6.5-06?

[RockyMtnMT]

Helo everyone,

I have a son that will be hunting his 1st season this fall. I have a deal with him that I will match his funds for a new hunting rifle. Then I got to thinking that I could have my old model 70 Win re-barreled in 6.5-06 for him. This gun has never shot better than an inch @ 100yrds, so it has been sitting in the case for years.

My questions:
Is this a good caliber for a young hunter? How long a barrel? What twist for 100grn to 130grn bullets.

I think this would get him something better than a rifle off the rack, and possibly cost less.

Any info and ideas would be great.

Thanks, Steve

[olsingleshot]

Steve,
I think the 6.5-06 is too much rifle to start a young person with. You did not mention your son's age or size. For young people it is important that they NOT develop a flinch. I suggest a .243 or .260 to start with, in a rifle that fits him. I own a .260, 6.5x55 & 6.5-06, so I do have some experience.

[MagMan]

Steve, nothing against the 6.5-06 but if it were my son I would suggest a 25-06.

[RockyMtnMT]

He's not a big kid, but he's been shooting a 7-08 with 140's with no problem. If I stay down around the 100 ish grn bullets do you think it will be too much recoil. Can it be loaded down like a 30-06? I figured on cutting down the old stock to fit him, then when he gets older we would get a new stock for him. How long a barrel does the 6.5-06 need to be effective.

Perhaps I should just get him a 7-08. Was just looking for something niftier.

Thanks for the advice, Steve

[olsingleshot]

Steve,
The 7mm-08 is a fine cartridge and if he can handle that he should be able to handle loaded down 6.5-06. To get the most out of that round later I suggest a 24" barrel. Cutting the stock to fit is very important and check the eye relief on the scope also. I don't know what nifty is anymore but the 6.5x55 is another choice. The 6.5 bullets have great BC and will make a fine LR rifle. email me at olsingleshot@gmail.com if you have anymore questions.

[DWK]

I was looking at a 6.5 x '06 a few months ago and posted a question about optimum barrel length on this and other forums. Several owners suggested it would be worth getting a 26 incher if you want better long range capability.

[olsingleshot]

I have tried both 24 and 26 inch barrels. Only with a very few powders was there any velocity difference. As far as a stabalizing quality, the extra 2" should not matter. But with all long range hunting there is a lot of variables.