looking for a flat varmint/deer caliber

[jdefranc938]

Hey all!
I'm looking to start my 3rd M700 build. I would like something in the 6mm or 6.5mm category for groundhogs/long range PD's/ deer/and maybe antelope if I ever get a chance. My biggest goal for this is to have a VERY flat trajectory. Some of the calibers I was looking at was the 243AI, 6mm Rem or AI, 6-284, or 6.5-284. I already have a 6.5x47 Lapua in the making. I know that the 6-284 has a significantly shorter barrel life, but that doesn't really scare me away. Any input you have on this I would greatly appreciate!! Thanks!

 

[B23]

Something like a 6.5-284 or 6.5-06 would be at the top of my list.

 

[bust_em]

I like the 243 AI myself

 

[J E Custom]

The 260 rem (6.5/308) would also be a very good choice.

J E CUSTOM

 

[ReachnOut]

I've been a big fan of the 6mmAI for many years having had several built from light weight sporters to 20+ pound bench p-dog guns. All are built on Nesika actions with Kreiger barrels and are extremely accurate and fun to shoot.

In the past couple of years, have become more and more impressed with my 2 6BR's though and have been quite amazed by the accuracy out to 800. No recoil with a brake, great selection of premium brass and bullets, very easy to load for and super long barrel life. Currently, I'm building this cartridge in a LRH configuration that will come in around 9 pounds complete with Nightforce 50mm scope. Hoping it will be my "go to" on varmints, deer and antelope.

 

[Guy M]

If you want to shoot 6.5's flat & fast, at least consider the good old .264 Win mag... It's quite a bullet launcher...

 

[yobuck]

if i had a 6.5x47 lapua in the oven id be waiting to try it. from what ive seen that would be your cartridge.

 

[Guy M]

Really good point. A buddy of mine has a 6.5x47. Uses it for matches, rock chucks and mule deer....

Another guy uses the 6.5-06 for the same purposes. Both do well.

 

[RockZ]

The 6-284 is awesome.
I built one on a savage target action with a 28"shilen barrel and it is an amazing shooter.
107smk s@3395 fps.
Very accurate and Flat trajectory.
Light recoil with performance that runs with the big boys.
My favorite long range 6mm

 

[liltank]

I'm thinking 6.5WSM. Someone on here has one, and I have seen video's of groundhogs exploding using 140grn V-max. Don't know the technical stuff on the caliber, but it would be a hammer.

Tank

 

[OKIE2]

If you want to shoot 6.5's flat & fast, at least consider the good old .264 Win mag... It's quite a bullet launcher...

So is its brother 6.5 rem mag in a 26" barrel.

 

[mike33]

6mm x 284 i own 3 very good shooter kills good and no fire forming. Cheap build is to buy a 243 if you dont own one and open up. For whitetail i like the sierra 85 bthp at 3500 fps 24" factory rem barrel.

 

[Good]

That 6x284 looks mean. I'd like to run some of these 117g MB bullets through it. I wonder what barrel life is like...

.243 Caliber Bullets Custom Built for Accuracy | Matrix Ballistics

But for simplicity, .243AI. Can shoot factory ammo, and once you do the brass is fireformed already, provided you're happy with Win or Rem brass.

 

[OKIE2]

6mm x 284 i own 3 very good shooter kills good and no fire forming. Cheap build is to buy a 243 if you dont own one and open up. For whitetail i like the sierra 85 bthp at 3500 fps 24" factory rem barrel.

Thats the same as the 6-06