I have a short action that I want to build a 6.5-284 out of. The clip has room for up to 2.875".
The nosler book I have lists the C.O.L on this cartridge at 3.310(I think it was?)When I look at the .260 rem it says C.O.L of about 2.800. The case is only about .130 longer??
Then I look at the original .284 and it was about 2.810 C.O.L. and the 7mm-08 with 175gr slugs at about 2.800 again???? What am I missing?
I only plan on going as high as 140gr slugs, would I be safe with this action. I assume most of this is the result of useing 160 gr bullets?

When Norma standardized the round a few years back, calling it the 6.5-284 Norma, they designed it for a long action. In fact, if you buy either of their factory loads you will discover that they are quite long, and will not fit into a short action. I think the black hills ammo is also designed for a long action.

The 6.5-284 is a 1,000 yard benchrest design cartridge as is the 6mm Norma BR. Both are CIP Standardized. Both are designated around a long "throat and Leade" to facilitate the VLD bullets needed for 1,000 yard BR. Particlarly; in the CIP standardization the throat and Leade are required to be designated. The only difference between the 6mm BR Remington and the the 6mm Norma Benchrest is the throat and leade are required and designated long for the Norma in the CIP. The brass dimensions are the same as I understand it.

So? does this mean I could load it in a SA for standard hunting bullets?

I looked at building a 6.5x284 on a short action and did not go through with it. With the short action you will need to seat the 140gr bullets deep enough that it will impede on powder capacity which will cut your speed down to almost .260 remington. For a short action I think the best bang for the buck if you dont mind fireforming brass is the .260AI. The 6.5x284 in a long action will match the 6.5-06 with the heavier bullets.