Hey guys
I have a chance to buy I Ruger 77 International Stainless in 6.5x55. I'm a little hesitant because of the 18 inch barrel? What say you?

Thanks Greg

Not ideal but if you limit you shooting distance and stick to bullets not lighter than 140 grains it should work. Having said that the 6,5x54 became a legend with 18''.....

I'd say that 18" tube is perfect for the Swede. Load 160 grainers.

The 6,5x55 should be considered a "small magnum" and really gaines a lot from a longer barrel. About 60 cm on a hunting rifle is recommended by most authorities on rifles here in Scandinavia.

If you want a long range rig, then pass but if a handy all weather carbine capable of taking big game out to 300 yds suits you, then buy it.

I have 6.5x55's with barrels ranging from 17" (43 cm) to 26" (65 cm) and I like em all.

The one I am working on now will have a 21" (53.3 cm) barrel built on a small ring 98 action.

Just found out the price of this Ruger gonna be close to $1500.00, I think I'm going to pass.
Thanks fellows.
Regards Greg

Limited Edition?

Use to hunt some with a home sporterized 6.5 X 55 with a 16" barrel. Killed mule deer just fine. roger

My first big-game rifle was a 6.5X55 in a M-96 carbine that had a sport trigger and Lyman aperture sight. My uncle did it for me, he probably had $50.00 or $60.00 tied up in it total, ah the good old days.
At any rate that predates my reloading and I shot Norma hunting ammo out of that short barrel. Took two or three elk and a number of deer with it in my ever so distant youth . Wish I hadn't been stupid enough to trade it off for a Model 600 Rem. Ah...the one's that got away .