6.5x284 Mag - Anyone got one?

[Andy L]

Bullet selection is critical with ultra high velocity rounds. It makes all the difference in the world.

My 25-06AI is a prime example. The smithy recommended 100gr Nosler Partitions. Wrong. They act like a 17Rem on a coyote. No exit. It penetrates inside the deer, goes off like a bomb, making jelly out of the heart and lungs, and doesnt exit. The deer is dead on its feet, but most run leaving little or no blood trail. So far I have been able to recover all of them, but its just not right. I gotta get a harder bullet that will hold up to the speed.

Im very, very impressed, to say the least, with the CZ 6.5x55 I bought my son this year. With my handloads, which are way over book max with no pressure signs, its shooting a 129gr Hornady SP around 2900fps or so. It knocks deer flat. Makes a nice silver dollar size exit and you can eat right up to the hole. So far none have had to be tracked and you had to roll them over to see a blood trail, but there would be one if they did run any. Im pretty much convinced, when loaded at modern pressures in modern rifles, this is pretty much the perfect deer cartridge. Shoots as flat as anything out there and more accurate than most (see 1000 yd world record). Penetrates like a heavy 30 cal (see sectional density). Recoils less than most 243s. Whats not to like?

I can only think the 6.5-284 may be slightly better. But I dont know that for hunting if it would be enough better to justify a custom build and wildcatting? Probably not. (But when I get the wants, that doesnt matter). The CZ is a well made rifle with a 26" tube. Shoots very well the way it is. I may just buy another just like my sons and call it good. Chances are it will like the same loads where we can interchange if needed. That will make it real simple.