Good day,

I know there is lots of data on the 260 but I need a question answered so I can make up my mind wether to go with a 260 AI or a 6.5 WSM both on 24 inch barrels. I'd like to use both for the 140gr class bullets (scenars, amax,...) and need some feed back here guys. This rifle will be a "tactical" setup with a McMillan A5 stock, bipod, NSX scope and I would like to use it out to 1K. Please keep in mind that this will not be a single shot but rather the cartridges should be loaded to max OAL in accordance with the respective magazine dimensions.

Regards

I have seen both the 260 A.I. and the 6.5 WSM shot as data was developed with both by local shooters. The 260 A.I. will give 2850 fps accurate velocity from a 26" barrel, and the 6.5 WSM will give 3250 fps accurate velocity from a 30" barrel with 140 gr. class bullets. In the 260 A.I. I don't think you will give up very much velocity by going to a 24" barrel, but with the 6.5 WSM I am certain you will lose 180 to 200 fps with the 24" barrel versus the 30" tube I saw the data developed in.

Both seem be very accurate, but if you shoot in any volume, the 260 A.I. would be the way to go. The 6.5 WSM is going to be much harder on barrels. The 260 A.I. should give around 1600 - 2000 rounds of competitive accurate barrel life. The 6.5 around 800 to 1000. Both chamberings like 4831 class of powders, with the 140 gr. class bullets. The 260 A.I. seems to like H4350 EXT as well with that bullet weight. Hope this has helped some.

May I be half the man my grandson thinks I am....RiverRat

to answer the question you didn't ask. 6.5/284.
woofer