The 6.5 is somewhat of a new possibility to the sniping arena. Until recently the 6.5 has never really been considered, although to serious long range shooters its no real surprise. The 6.5 has long been know for its excellent accuracy. And especially now with the introduction of Federal's Gold Medal Match load, the 6.5 should be seriously considered for sniping. I can really see the benefits in Law Enforcement applications, as it generally shoots a lighter bullet then the .308, but heavier then the .243, falling nicely right in between. The only problem I can foresee is the lack of sniper grade weapons chambered for the 6.5. But most of the custom sniper rifle manufacturers will chamber their rifles in any caliber the purchaser wants (Sometimes for a small additional fee). Hopefully rifle manufacturers will realize the great potential of the 6.5 and start to produce their sniper rifles in 6.5.

Recommendation: The 6.5x55m makes a great Law Enforcement round, and the Federal Match load matches the .308 Fed Match (168gr) exactly but with a 120gr bullet. This shows just how efficient the round is, usually heavier bullets retain velocity better, and are less susceptible to wind, but the 6.5 load performs equally to the .308. But because the 6.5 is a lighter bullet, it produces a chunk less energy at long ranges, probably reducing its effective range to about 650 - 700 meters. The .308 gets the edge for military applications, but I believe the 6.5 has got an edge in a Law Enforcement situation.

Note: Included is two match loads, the Sierra with 120gr Sierra Match King and the PMC with a 140gr Sierra Match king. Both rounds perform well in military applications out to about 700 meters.

• Fed = Federal Gold Medal Match - 6.5x55mm Swedish 120gr Sierra Match King , at 2600fps
• PMC = PMC Silver Line Match - 6.5x55mm Swedish 140gr Sierra Match King, at 2560fps

Bullet Drop (Inches)

Energy (Muzzle: Fed -1800 Ft-Lbs., PMC - 2037)

Wind Drift (Inches) 10mph Crosswind

Note: Once again I have chosen the Sierra Game King bullet, this time loaded by PMC. It�s a 140gr version this time. This should be another outstanding round for the 6.5x55mm. Another very good choice would be the Federal Match 120gr listed above. While the Match King's don't expand as well, it is 20gr lighter, and should fragment on impact, reducing the penetration.

PMC Silver Line 6.5x55mm Swedish - 140gr Sierra Game King (SPBT) at 2560fps

Bullet Drop (Inches)

Energy (Muzzle - 2037 Ft-Lbs.)

Wind Drift (Inches) 10 mph Crosswind

��������� � ������