6.5x55

[Salmo]

When handloaded to it's potential how fast can I expect to push 140gr bullets???

Any load info would be great. Would I be wrong to assume the 6.5x55 would have similiar ballistics as the .260 AI. ??

Thanks all

 

[RT2506]

It depends on your barrel length. I can push a 140 gr bullet 2800 fps average out of my Mauser 96s with under 46000 cup loads (45 grs AA 4350) with their 29" barrels. More information is needed with your question. I would say that yes you can match or maybe exceed 260AI velocity with equal barrel length.

 

[nwkman]

I'm getting 2850fps from a 24" barrel with great accuracy.

 

[JLF]

I'm working up a load for my Blaser R8 Professional in 6.5x55 Swede with 22.75-inch barrel.

My components:

Lapua cartridge
Berger 140 grn VLD
CCI BR-2
H4350
COAL = 3.150

Charge/Velocity/Group Results (all below loads showed zero signs of pressure)
43/2614/one ragged hole
43.5/2646/one ragged hole
44/2675/one ragged hole
44.5/2724/one ragged hole
45/2748/.25 MOA
45.5/2763/.25 MOA
46/2775/.25 MOA
46.5/2828/.50 MOA
47/2852/.50 MOA

Please if anyone else has data to share let me know. For my setup, I'm leaning to settling on the 46 grn load as it gives me very good accuracy at a velocity price point. North of 46 grains it seems I may trade some accuracy for a little velocity gain. Anyone please feel free for the sake of the all to share your opinions on these results as well as your own experiences. OP, I hope this helps and please let us know more about your setup/results.

 

[Salmo]

Awesome! I can get 2750fps in a 22" tube outa the .260rem with 140's. I'm kinda giddy about the x55 if I could get 2850! More would really get me jacked, but.

Wish I could get my hands on a Sako A7 in the x55 but they dont make one. . So a Tikka T3 will work just fine..

Love the info. Thanks guys!

 

[Mikecr]

The 260AI would be a bit bigger.
Can always check for loads here:
36 loads available in 6.5x55 Mauser with bullet weight equal 140

IMO, you need 26-28" barrels to reach any real potential in 140gr bullets here.
Heavy bullets for cal need more slower powders(when you have the capacity), and more barrel to burn it.