Convince me: medium or short action for 6.5 prc

[badseed]

Im looking to build a 6.5prc ( yes I know there are plenty of other options but this caliber fills a niche in my safe). I do plan to reload for it and I want to be able to maximize the bullet options. To do this, it seems like I need to build off a medium action to take into account the longer bullets like the 156s. From what I can tell, the longest COAL that I have seen somebody use was 3.1". A medium action will get me 3.2". A short action will only let me build to 2.980" (depending on magazine). My question is what would I be gaining or losing by choosing a medium action vs a short? Will that extra case capacity let me achieve higher velocity before hitting pressure issues? How much extra velocity would be gained or lost?

 

[Buttermilk]

I would do a medium action personally. If doing a Remington, I would certainly look at doing an extended box to allow 3.2" cartridge length.

 

[Kmccord]

You could go with a Long Action and use the Hawkins M5 with Hunter DBM, they make a spacer kit to use for 6.5 PRC, 300WSM, 6.5 SAUM. This will give you plenty of room to grow.

 

[badseed]

You could go with a Long Action and use the Hawkins M5 with Hunter DBM, they make a spacer kit to use for 6.5 PRC, 300WSM, 6.5 SAUM. This will give you plenty of room to grow.

Im not a huge fan of the spacer. I have a variety of 30 cal long actions so I don't ever see a need to grow this rifle into something else. Plus, lets face it, why repurpose a rifle a rifle when you can just get another one? So far the biggest drawback I am seeing to a purpose built medium action is tracking down a stock.

 

[Rick Richard]

If it never going to be anything else than a 6.5 PRC or equivalent, then short action with Wyatt's extended box.

 

[Raingull]

If you are really really in love with the 156 grain EOL then sure pamper her (but she'll do just fine at 3"). You can get better drop from a lighter faster bullet, but the 156 will come out ahead for windage. The 156 is really the only reason to even worry about it (not even sure it is).

 

[Tucker65]

I've built a few on medium and short actions. A medium action would be my first choice if sourcing everything for a fresh new build. If I already had a short action to work with I'd install a Wyatts Baney box if the action allowed it, this will get you 3.100 inside the box. That length will work out great with a 156gr Berger using using the Alex Wheeler spec reamer. I've been using 24" Proof Research barrels and have been getting right at 3000 fps with Rl-26 and close to the same with N565.

 

[badseed]

Sounds like the general consensus is that a new 6.5 prc build should be in a medium action. A short will work but a medium is better suited. Alright, you've convinced me. Looks like its going to be a medium action build.