why would you choose one over the other??? They both sound like they perform better than what paper says they will, I hear both have VERY mild recoil, and both are adequate to take up to moose and possibly elk size game...so why would you choose one over the other?

Thanks

Dave

I have both, and like both. If I had to pick only one, it would be the 7x57; I think it is just a little more flexible and a better choice for game larger than deer. The 7x57 will generally push the same weight bullet from 100-200 fps faster (or more). At the same time, most .284" bullets still have a good ballistic coefficient, and compare very favorably with the 6.5 bullets.

I have a Remington Classic in 6.5x55, and it has rapidly become my favorite rifle. I got a moose with it last year using the Sierra 160gr. SPSP. I don't know if it's due to the high bullet co-efficiency or what but the bullets seem to raise merry olde hell with an animals boiler room. What impresses me is that I can reload everything from 85gr. to 160gr. bullets. It's quite the accurate round in my rifle. Best wishes.

Cal - Montreal

I don't believe there is a convincing argument for one over the other. I believe premium bullets level the field considerably between cartridges, to the point it takes a good 15-20% difference in weight or velocity to make any difference on game. I don't think there are many hunters that will shoot enough game in their lifetime to discern any difference between those two.

Those two cartridges are a smaller metric reflection of the .270-.30/06 debate where on game smaller than elk, maybe even including elk, it's a coin-toss IMO. For example I can't imagine staring at a bull elk with my .270 and 140gr X-bullets or 150gr partitions and passing up the shot thinking "...I could take him if only I had my /06 and 180gr bullets..."

Don't make me choose. I have both.

A lot of discussions about these calibers startw with "What is hte best deer rifle for my wife..."

Good for the goose... blah blah. If it enough gun for her, it is enough gun for everyone. Get both! If you really only want one, flip a coin. Either will be a perfect choice. I do not say that tungue in cheek. Either caliber is a great choice - especially if you handload. Enough punch for longer ranges, mild recoil, accurate, doesn't destroy barrels in a day, what's not to like?