Not sure what you mean by 'stuck with short actions'. The shorter the better in my view..
But anyway a 6.5wssm is as long(loaded) as a typical 243win. This because ~140gr bullets are very long(like spears).
When you wonder what we think of this cartridge, I wonder if you realize that it is a wildcat, and not commercially available. Few have chambered in it.
I've put one together and have been shooting 139 Lapuas. My tuned load in 28" barrel runs ~3080fps. I have gone as high as 3250 during load development without damaging brass using IMR4350. And I am always concerned about my brass as I have alot of work and expense in it.
It's tough stuff, and some of the best I've ever seen/measured.
The main problem however(there's always one), is that wssm brass is extremely thick. IMO it has to be turned to get any real accuracy from it.
I use a long action(BAT RS) and cannot imagine using anything shorter without cutting away too much for port. Another thing to remember in magnum diameter cartridges is that their actions use larger threading/ring. This, so that there remains the needed 'barrel steel' around the larger diameter chamber. If you don't mind this, your brass will not last like mine does. I have well over 20 reloads on mine.
I love the cartridge, and never understood why Winchestor didn't go there.
