Best long range 6.5mm/.264 caliber for hunting deer sized animals

Best 6.5/.264 caliber for long range deer


  • Total voters
    481
Unfortunately the tried & true 6.5x55 is not up there as that would be my first choice, that being said i would go with either the 6.5 SAUM or the classic .264 Win Mag.
 
I have several different 6.5s and my favorites are the 6.5x55 and the 6.5x284.
While I've had and have numerous 6.5's I'd have to agree that the little Sweed is my go to rifle and then next is the 6.5x284. Come to think of it I shoot my 260 quite a bit as well. I guess truth is I love the .264 and have a tough time picking a favorite.
 
The Scandinavians have been knocking moose and smaller with the 6.5 x 55 for over a hundred years. I have a 30 year old Varberger in 6.5 x 55 that has been taking an average of 10 deer a season since I bought it. I have started using Sako 120 gr in place of the 140 gr bullet at the range. It is grouping tight at 300 mtrs so have to wait for the season to open to see how it deals with our fallow and sika.
 
Got it. I don't run RL26 in anything any more. I find it is like RL22, and it gets hot when temps hit 85*+. When hunting temps can run from below zero to 115+, I can't use it. If it stays below 85*, it works awesome.
I shot it 2 summers now using RL26 in 100+ no problems at all. Like any powder speed increases a little but no pressure spikes. Like Creedmore shooter I found my guns max and backed off a little. Any powder can give you a spike in heat if you run max at 50 degrees and go shoot in 100.
 

Recent Posts

Top