Having a VERY hard time deciding between the two. Going to be a Tikka Lite rifle, mostly for wife. Need light recoil, long-range accuracy, easy to reload, ability to use against varmints and larger game (deer/elk). It appears that they are both pretty damn equal in many ways, though it seems that reloading for the 7mm-08 will be less costly, and that finding good QUALITY 6.5x55 brass means having to buy the foreign stuff (.60-$1.00 a piece).

Also, the 7mm-08 is a short action vs. the long action for the 6.5x55. Don't know if that is a plus or not?

I love my 7-08 Kimber 84M Classic

It is pretty much a crap shoot on those two. I have an uncle and cousins that have been shooting 7mm08 for years and love them.

I have a 6.5x55 and really like it

I don't see where you can go wrong either way.

The .260 rem. should also be in the running.

7mm-08...a little better all around and mor components

Given that the rifle is for your good lady wife, my reccomendation for what it's worth,is the 6.5x55. I have a Tikka T3 in this calibre and is just plain fun to shoot. With a Limbsaver pad on it's a pussycat.
Winchester makes cases for the 6.5 Swede and they are pretty good ones
The long action on the T3 is a plus, it provides plenty of room in the mag to load those long for calibre 6.5mm bullets.
The 7mm-8 is a good round too!

7-08

quote:

Also, the 7mm-08 is a short action vs. the long action for the 6.5x55. Don't know if that is a plus or not?

The Tikka is a long action rifle, even the short action calibers are long actions. They can cut costs by producing only one action length, so this point doesn't really matter in this particular rifle.

Good gun though.

I'd take a 6.5mm because those Swedes got it right with that one. 7mm is a very close second and probably a better choice overall, just lacks the history of the old Swede.

quote:

Originally posted by 33806whelen:
7-08

Ditto.

No Brainer.... One each!!!

Flip a coin.

Heads you win. Tails you win.

The best piece of advice I have is to let your wife choose. Don't try to influence her one way or the other because both cartridges are practically equal in performance. If she is unfamiliar with them, show her a picture of the two cartridges and let her read a little bit about each one and then make the decision. Both you and your wife will be happier that way.

A friend of mine has a Tikka T3 Lite in 6.5x55. I seen him take some pretty long range shots with it and it is accurate. The rifle itself is a beauty and the cartridge looks real good too! For the reloader, the 6.5 has a slight edge if you want it. It would be my choice. But then, it's not for me, so.... But I'm with duckboat - let the good lady decide!

If I shot more small game & deer, I would go 6.5x55. If it were more deer w/ an elk every year, then a 7-08 for the slightly bigger bullets. Yeah, yeah, I know, Swedes kill truck loads of moose, but the couple of Swedes I know that hunt moose there like something bigger.

I have and love both; however given your criteria, I'd go with the 6.5x55 and not look back. Lou

i would go with the 6.5, just because i like it better.
i would let the bullet weight decide which cartridge to get

Let the wife try both rifles. The one that feels the best to her--that's the one.

I would add another plus for the .260 Rem. I know ammo is getting harder to find, but if you reload that won't be a problem.

you mention deer/elk,.. elk, i would go with the 7-08. for that little extra insurance.. my sister and i have been shooting one for about 15 years or so. if you was only shooting deer size game i would go with a .260 rem. i really like my .260 for deer. but with the right combo, right range. good bullet placement. a .260 will kill elk to..

My wife has a Remington Model Seven in a 7-08. I love it. I would like to point out that I have been checking out the Tikka myself in the same caliber, however, the twist rate on the Tikka is 1 in 9.5" versus the 1 in 9.25" on the Model Seven. My buddy has a M77 Hawkeye with the same twist rate and we have had a hard time getting accuracy out of it. The Model Seven puts three shots touching @ 100 yds. The load is IMR 4064 pushing a 139gr Hornady SP. Also, the Model Seven fits her better than any other gun she has shouldered. IMO, have her shoulder the Remington and see if she likes it better.

All are good choices, but I would find it hard to pass on the 6.5X55. It will do all you ask of it for big game using 140 grain pills, and it will do it with minimal recoil.

6.5/.264 bullet selection is good, and the hand loader has the option of using modern loading data making it every bit the equal of the others, or one could use more conservative military loading date for even less recoil if necessary. Norma hunting ammunition is available and components are plentiful, so it's a safe bet the 6.5 isn't going away anytime soon.

The old Swede earned its reputation the hard way by effectively harvesting about everything that walks or crawls with 160 grain bullets of high sectional density, and with modern guns and loads, it is second to none. The other Johnny come lately rounds merely duplicate the Swede's performance, and in my opinion probably aren't as flexible, especially with heavy for calibre bullets.

I am not summarily dismissing the -08 family, but I do confess I'd rather have the venerable old 7X57 if one chooses .284" bullet diameter. What is nice about all of you choices is that each and every one has the reputation of killing power beyond its paper ballistics.

quote:

.... mostly for wife. Need light recoil, long-range accuracy, easy to reload, ability to use against varmints and larger game ....

7-08
100 GR. BAR XFB Hodgdon Varget .284" 2.650" 42.0 3060 40,800 CUP 45.7 3277 49,600 CUP
160 GR. SPR SPBT Hodgdon Varget .284" 2.800" 36.5 2451 43,400 CUP 39.0 2562 49,900 CUP

6.5 Swede
85 GR. SIE HP Hodgdon Varget .264" 2.800" 40.0 3128 36,600 CUP 44.0 3350 42,300 CUP
100 GR. SIE HP Hodgdon Varget .264" 2.850" 38.0 2892 37,800 CUP 42.0 3177 45,800 CUP
160 GR. HDY RN Hodgdon H4831 .264" 3.000" 44.0 2327 36,600 CUP 48.0C 2524 46,000 CUP

The Swede can be loaded to the same pressure as the 7-08, which would make them equal (if the difference between 2562 fps and 2524 fps is an issue). Recoil is going to be a bit 'softer' with the Swede simply because the bullet accelerates down the bore at a different rate. Long range for the Swede is going to be a bit better because the bullets are 'slimmer' for the same weight.

Then, if recoil is an issue, there is a way around it - if legal in your parts. It should be, because who would think of it as a suppressor. This device cuts muzzle blast and recoil by half. This one is a prototype so it looks a bit funny but it is effective to the extreme and very light. It does quieten the gun (as much as a suppressor on a 308 does) but who would know just looking at it? It would work better on the smaller bore. There is no threading or anything of the barrel - it is secured using Loc-Tite. It does increase the length of the gun by 50mm/2 inches.

Wow, how do I get one of those? I can have suppressors here in my state, and have a few already. But that device looks more like a muzzle brake or flash suppressor - are they for sale?

quote:

Originally posted by 303Guy:

quote:

.... mostly for wife. Need light recoil, long-range accuracy, easy to reload, ability to use against varmints and larger game ....

7-08
100 GR. BAR XFB Hodgdon Varget .284" 2.650" 42.0 3060 40,800 CUP 45.7 3277 49,600 CUP
160 GR. SPR SPBT Hodgdon Varget .284" 2.800" 36.5 2451 43,400 CUP 39.0 2562 49,900 CUP

6.5 Swede
85 GR. SIE HP Hodgdon Varget .264" 2.800" 40.0 3128 36,600 CUP 44.0 3350 42,300 CUP
100 GR. SIE HP Hodgdon Varget .264" 2.850" 38.0 2892 37,800 CUP 42.0 3177 45,800 CUP
160 GR. HDY RN Hodgdon H4831 .264" 3.000" 44.0 2327 36,600 CUP 48.0C 2524 46,000 CUP

The Swede can be loaded to the same pressure as the 7-08, which would make them equal (if the difference between 2562 fps and 2524 fps is an issue). Recoil is going to be a bit 'softer' with the Swede simply because the bullet accelerates down the bore at a different rate. Long range for the Swede is going to be a bit better because the bullets are 'slimmer' for the same weight.

Then, if recoil is an issue, there is a way around it - if legal in your parts. It should be, because who would think of it as a suppressor. This device cuts muzzle blast and recoil by half. This one is a prototype so it looks a bit funny but it is effective to the extreme and very light. It does quieten the gun (as much as a suppressor on a 308 does) but who would know just looking at it? It would work better on the smaller bore. There is no threading or anything of the barrel - it is secured using Loc-Tite. It does increase the length of the gun by 50mm/2 inches.

The best answer is: if it's going to be your Wife's rifle, than whichever one she wants.

If it were me I'd take the 7mm-08. It may recoil more than the 6.5 but it's still a cream puff, and it has greater upside potential. Upside meaning larger game.

Either ones a winner, Son has a Tikka T3 lite and it is very very accurate right out of the box. Wife shoots a 7mm-08, and I have a Sako in 6.5X55. Which ever one she likes best. From my experiance shooting both calibers, the 7mm08 will recoil a bit more, but nothing to really worry about. I use Norma or Laupa brass for the Swede, and it is intially expensive but is at CIP spec and several cases are on the 8th reload with no issues yet.

How many Deer do you shoot as opposed too Elk ?. 6.5 X 55 is tough to beat ,

Especially if your going to shoot varmints . Then again do you really want the Wife to hunt with You ?.

If so buy the 6.5 she will appreciate less recoil and shoot more , the alternative is a 458 Lott

if you want her to only go ONCE !.

Reloading cost is near equal so that wouldn't concern me .

Two great calibers but I would have to lean toward the 7-08 for cost of reloading and factory ammo choices, if you choose not to reload.

Since you are willing to consider a "long action", why not include a 7X57? I have a couple, one a pure "utility" rifle I used for a "loaner" when we had a company deer lease and I did a lot of entertaining. Recoil so modest anyone could shoot it successfully, 4X Leupold so little to mess up, absolutely deadly. As you handload, extremely versatile. just my opinion

quote:

But that device looks more like a muzzle brake or flash suppressor - are they for sale?

Not this particular one - it is my own creation. I would call it a muzzle break (I wonder how well it works as a flash suppressor). There is something similar out there but I will have to look it up for you. I am still developing my device. I was surprised at how well it works. Up until testing it I thought it would do little more than reduce the muzzle blast slightly and of course, the recoil. The main idea was reduction of that particular rifles very severe report. But I did employ an idea of mine. One I thought would make suppressors smaller and more effective.

OK. I am getting a bit off topic here - my apologies to JohnCrighton. But maybe the idea would be of interest to him?

quote:

Since you are willing to consider a "long action", why not include a 7X57?

Wouldn't that depend on what the T3 Lite comes chambered in? (But a good idea just the same).

Thanks to everyone for the suggestions. The Lite T3 only comes in Stainless for 6.5x55 and is tough to find. None come in 7x57.

quote:

The Lite T3 only comes in Stainless for 6.5x55 and is tough to find.

Does theat mean the choice is made? That is what my buddy has and I think it is a beauty! And accurate to boot

TIKKA (BERETTA USA) Model T3 Hunter Bolt Action Rifles

Tikka 6.5X55MM Swede w/Blue Barrel & Walnut Stock

The Tikka T3 Hunter features a glass smooth action, a crisp, adjustable trigger, match grade cold hammer forged barrel and a perfect mating between stock and metal. The trigger is crisp and positive, and is easily adjustable for weight of pull (2-4lbs). This barrel action is designed to give you unbeatable out-of-the-box accuracy.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Mfg Item Num: JRTA351
Category: FIREARMS - RIFLES
Action :Bolt Action
Caliber :6.5 MM X 55 MM Swede
Barrel Length :22 7/16"
Capacity :3 + 1
Trigger :Single Stage
Safety :Two Position
Length :42 1/2"
Weight :6 5/8 lbs
Stock :Walnut
Finish :Blue


As your already aware of T3 Lite is synthetic SS .

TIKKA (BERETTA USA) Model T3 Lite Bolt Action Rifles

Tikka 6.5MMX55MM Swede w/Stainless Barrel & Black Synthetic Stock

The Tikka T3 offers all the features and benefits of the popular Whitetail series, plus a new look. At the heart of the T3 is the hyper accurate cold hammer forged barrel, sturdily anchored to a silky smooth action. The trigger is crisp and positive, and is easily adjustable for weight of pull (2-4 lbs). Like other T3s, they're guaranteed to put three shots inside an inch at 100 yards.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Mfg Item Num: JRTB351
Category: FIREARMS - RIFLES
Action :Bolt Action
Caliber :6.5 MM X 55 MM Swede
Barrel Length :22 7/16"
Capacity :3 + 1
Trigger :Single Stage
Safety :Two Position
Length :42 1/2"
Weight :6 lbs 3 oz
Stock :Synthetic
Finish :Stainless Steel

Sako Finnlight

Sako 85 Finnlight

When weather is at its worst, determined hunters know there’s no substitute for the combination of a stainless steel barreled action and a synthetic stock. No matter how long a downpour drenches these rifles, they’ll be ready. Available in .13 calibers ranging from 243 to .300 Win Mag. in four action lengths, there’s a Finnlight for almost any game, anywhere, anytime. As with all of our stainless rifles, the Finnlight’s inner parts are also stainless.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Mfg Item Num:
Category: FIREARMS - RIFLES
Action: 85 Medium
Caliber: 6.5x55 Swede
Barrel Length: 24 3/8
Capacity: 5 rds
Trigger: Single-Stage Adjustable
Safety: Two-Position safety with separate bolt
Sights: Integral Tapered Scope Mount Dovetails
Recoil: FinSoft, Black
Weight: 6.6
Stock: Synthetic w/ over molded grips
Finish: Stainless Steel

Also available in Walnut an Blued finish .

Sako 85 Hunter

The Sako 85, a celebration of the riflemaker’s 85th anniversary, is a superbly executed medley of tradition, technology and precision. Continuing Sako’s time-honored tradition of crafting exceptional rifles for the hunter and target shooter, the Sako 85 incorporates the features most sought after by experienced riflemen: controlled-round feeding, an exceedingly fast lock time, a user adjustable trigger, 70-degree bolt handle lift with a silky smooth bolt travel, and broad flat bedding surfaces. The rifle’s stock is crafted from select walnut and features the classic straight comb and shadow-line cheekpiece that premium-rifle owners appreciate. Individually factory tested and guaranteed to shoot fiveshot groups of 1 MOA or less out of the box.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Mfg Item Num:
Category: FIREARMS - RIFLES
Action: 85 Medium
Caliber: 6.5x55 Swede
Barrel Length: 22 7/16
Capacity: 5 rds
Trigger: Single-Stage Adjustable
Safety: Two-Position safety with separate bolt
Sights: Integral Tapered Scope Mount Dovetails
Recoil: Rubber, Black
Weight: 7.4
Stock: Select walnut, oil finish
Finish: Blued

Between the two - 6.5x55 or 7-08 - I would get the Swede for someone smaller and less experienced.

I, too, am trying to decide what to get for my 9-year old (soon to be 10) to take to Africa and the 6.5x55 is on the list. So, too, are the 250 Savage, 257 Roberts, and .30-30. I'm going to try him on the .308 Win and 7x57 and if he doesn't do well with either then I'll have to go lighter. My other boys used the Remington Model Seven in .308 in Africa when they were 11 and 12 and did very well on small and medium PG.

Just my 2 cents.

Namibiahunter

Personally I like the 6.5 better (one of my favorite cartridges) but in your case, I'd get the 7-08 in case she wants to hunt in Namibia.

The difference in recoil between the two is insignificant and should not be a factor in your decision IMO.

Get the 6.5x55 it's a great round for all medium size game.

To me arguing about the relative merits of
the 6.5x55 Vs 7mm-08 Vs 260Rem Vs 7x57
is like arguing about what color shirt you should buy.

Performance wise and recoil wise there really isn't enough of a difference to matter.

Ammunition availability OTOH...

7-08 is going to be the most common everywhere
except Scandanavia where the 6.5x55 is common.

The 7x57 will be available everywhere except where military cartridges are outlawed (France and Spain for starters)
but it's going to be "downloaded" from what is available for either the 6.5x55 of the 7-08.

IF you reload AND don't already have dies for one of the above it's a wash.

IF you have the dies for ANY I'd lean hard towards that cartridge.

I have a 6.5x55, I LIKE the swede, but if I were starting all over again I'd probably go with a 7mm-08.

Now if ONLY the swede is available in stainless and SHE wants a stainless steel rifle then the choice is already made.

AD

I have a m788 carbine in 7mm-08 and a m700 classic in 6.5x55 swed. that my son shoots. They are both very close. IMO the 7mm-08 has more recoil than the 6.5. The comment about using foreign brass in the 6.5, I don't think that is necessary. The 6.5 is very accurate and I have had no problems with Remington or Winchester brass. For deer size game the 125gr Partition or the 130gr accubonds will be hard to beat. Good exit wounds are the norm. The 120gr or 140gr bullets in 6.5 will have higher ballistic coeffients and higher sectional densities than the 7mm bullets. If velocities are the same the 6.5 will shoot flatter and the bullet will stay together better.
That said the main thing will be how the gun fits the person and how comfortable they or she is shooting the gun.

7mm-08

My kids shoot it with any problem.

Allen, I once said the same and sold all my 6.5's, and shot 7/08s, now I sold all of my 7/08s

I now own a 260 and another 6.5x55

EITHER way, one will/should be happy. If not, I give up

The 6.5 is the better dual purpose varmint/big game cartridge on paper. But, with the long throat for the 160 gr bullet the much shorter varmint bullets may lack the accuracy for longer ranges. The 7mm-08 is a very versatile accurate round but better suited on the big game side of the equation. I think the 260 Remington would be an excellent choice.

Go with the 6.5x55.
Much cooler in the cool dept.
I just never warmed up to the 7mm-08 but it is a fine performer nonetheless, so is the .260 but if it were me I would go with the 6.5 every time. I have one that shoots 100, 120 and 140 grain bullets very well (an inch and under at 100 yards) all in an old sporterized M96 with a re-contoured Military barrel a plastic stock and a Sightron scope nice cheap package.