SniperCentral

[Ddvant01]

I read a little on the 6.5, one of the sources said it was comparable to the 7.62 and was better for long distances. However I think both would be suitable for deer hunting around these parts. My plan is a new upper receiver for my AR-15, I have a 6.8 upper already in mind and that is the LMT MRP 18" ss, and I am fairly decided on that platform for the 6.8. I am just new to 6.5 and wanted to know who has a 6.5 build and what their recommendations were or specs of their AR15s. Thanks in advanced.

[Hooz]

I have two 6.5 Grendels. A 24" SASS type setup...



...and an 18" SPR type setup...



Due to the excellent selection of bullets in 6.5mm, the Grendel does a great job for long distance shooters. There are loads that do drift and drop less than .308 at distance, but I don't know that I would say it is "better", as the knock-down power of the .308 is still better at 1000 yards.

I built the 24" Grendel to wring every last bit of performance out of the Grendel for longer distance shooting, but the 18" is my favorite setup. I think it is a perfect match for the Grendel in its most effective range (300-700 yards).

If all of your shooting is going to be under 500 yards at paper, and 300 yards or less on deer-size game, I'd say just build your 6.8 and be happy with it. The 6.5 Grendel and 6.8SPC are pretty even out to 300ish yards. It is beyond that distance that the Grendel begins to shine.

Mark Larue shot a bull elk through-and-through at 405 yards with a 6.5 Grendel shooting 120gr Barnes bullets. Not everyone is capable of (or should even attempt) a shot like that, but if you are one of the few, the Grendel is plenty of gun.
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