I used to shoot 7 mm, but now I'm making a move to 6.5. Looking for someone who has experience with 6.5 on the Rams, very interested to know your opinions on what it takes to knock them down reliably. I am considering Amax, custom comp, matchking, all being 140 grain. what are your thoughts on the maximum velocity I need at the muzzle, dwell time on the steel etc?

I have not been shooting silohuette for very long but I like 140's for the rams. Truth is, I am not a good enough shot to achieve optimum shot placement and I want that ram to hit the dirt with a hit in the hind leg. The 140's (actually I use 139 Lapuas) at 2650 MV do this nicely. Now if I could just learn stand still while I shoot! Regards, Bill.

Take a look at the 6.5-284. The Berger Hybrid 140gr has a high BC, and a case full of 4350 (either flavor) will get you to 2700fps at reasonable pressures.

Where are you going to shoot silhouettes here in Idaho?

Rich

The thing is, you don't need 2700 fps to knock them down reliably. In fact, I suspect 2550 will probably work fine. No point in getting kicked any more than necessary. Last time out, I used 140 Hornady match ahead of 35 grains of 3031 (6.5x55)and all rams hit fell down. I can use the same charge with 108's for chickens, pigs, and turkeys but usually I just load 140's for everything.

the 6.5-284 has way to much recoil for these matches you will start flinching, I shot a 7-08 and had no problems shooting rams with 140s.with a 6.5 a 260rem or creed will do it you might have to take butt or head shots and swing them off.hell I have hit rams with a 200 grain load and just watched them wobble.Dave Tubbs used a 260 for years for silhouette but if I ever get back into it (not likely here in SD no ranges) I would go with the 6.5 Creed