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Re: 6.5x68 vs 6.5x65mm

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25 August 2004, 21:17
fuhrmann
Re: 6.5x68 vs 6.5x65mm
Quote:


1. I understood the 140 gr bullets shot well in the 6.5x68mm. Is there variance in the rifling twist rates between different makers?





Yes, obviously there may be differences in twist rate of 6.5x68(R) barrels, but I do not know details.
The RWS handbook says to the 6.5x68R:

"... but the long twist of many 6.5x68R barrels will not shoot precisely some of the listed loads with bullets heavier than ca. 8 grams (ca. 120 grains). The (lower) pressure limits of the rimmed version together with the lower powder use for the heavier bullets causes a load density of far below 100%, therefore the large case volume of the 6.5x68R is a real disadvantage compared to the medium cartridges, especially the much more balanced 6.5x65R RWS."

Fuhrmann
25 August 2004, 22:36
mho
I think the best option is to get in touch with the manufacturer of the rifle you have in mind (unless you are buying second hand), and enquire about the twist rate. Statements about twist rates in other rifles will do you little good.



Just one example of this, the 5.6x50R has long been known for not stabilizing heavier bullets (1-14" twist), and people complain the velocities with the lighter bullets are high enough to create quite a bit of bloodshot meat. Blaser, however, makes 5.6x50R barrels in a 1-12" twist, so they will stabilize up to 60 grs bullets - just what the doctor ordered. Moral of the story: get the specific data for the rifle you consider before making up your mind.

- mike