i'm going to start with S&B brass, rem 9 1/2 primers, IMR 4350, and 140 grn rem bulk bullets. i'd like to know what kind of velocity(24" barrel) to expect from this combo and also any other loads that you other 6.5x57 fans are using. thanks for any help/input...........bud

Well, don't expect much from that S&B brass. I had 100 of them, and I had HUGE problems with them. I ended up pitching the whole lot and making my own from WW 7x57 brass.

50 gr. H4831sc with 120 Nosler BT

45 gr. Re19 with Hornady 129 SP

42 gr. IMR 4350 with Sierra 140 SPBT

46 gr. Re22 with Speer 140 SP

All loads with CCI200 primers. All in fire-formed WW 7x57 brass.

None of these loads are max (in my rifle), but they shoot well and have plenty of power for anything I hunt with the 6.5x57.

Mine is a true 6.5x57. You can use 6.5x55 Swede data, though approach max with caution. I find the two max out at almost exactly the same charges, but that is in my guns/throat, etc.

BTW, if you do make cases from 7x57 brass, make certain to leave enough 7x57 neck to headpsace in the (long-to-shoulder) 6.5x57 chamber. Otherwise you'll risk head separation.

Anyway, good luck. It is a fine round that, in my opinion, is better suited to a long action that the 6.5x55. I took two Whiletail does with mine this fall (Rem 120 PSPCL @ 2650 fps).

My guess is something around 2650 with a 60,000 limit. If it were mine I would lean towards the 125-129 range bullet. You should be able to get in the 2900-3000 range at the same pressure.

I use the 120 grains Swift A frame in the 6.5x57R rifle barrel of my drilling, 2950 f/s, Norma MRP powder (do not get American powders here in Norway). I could not get the Sellery and Balloons brass to work, so I bought 100 RWS brass. Expensive, bur fantastic quality!

BTW, here the AR local info:

http://www.accuratereloading.com/6557.html

Good max loads with 140s should give 2800-2900 fps without too much trouble. But work up, etc.

I have seen some very worrying faults on 6.5x57R brass by S&B in Montero's rifle. Complete case seperation around shoulder and a primer pocket failure (not over pressure)There is no way I would use that brass.

thanks to all for the input. ok...it seems that S&B brass isn't what i need i'll look into getting some RWS brass. again...thanks

I'd seriously consider making some from 7x57 brass, you will find RWS brass to be VERY expensive. Also, while it is very high quality, it sometimes has thick case rims which may not agree with your shellholder. Anyway, good luck.