260 rem or 6.5*55 swedish?

D

David L

Regular
Rating - 100%
227   0   0
The title says it all. It's for hunting deer at 100 yards and more ( max 300)and I want the opinion about the availability, the cost, the performance. No suggestion about 7mm08 or so . Just these two! I want a rifle that will be really light to carry by the way.
Thanks
 
What are you finding in rifles chambered in these rounds that appeal to you? I'm quite familiar with 6.5x55 and think its a fine round for what you want. I eventually turned to handloading to get what I wanted in a cartridge (in particular the projectile). I can't comment on 260rem due to a lack of experience with it. I seem to recall there were some really nice Tikka's chambered in 6.5x55.
 
If it was me, I'd go with the older Remington Model 700 Ti in .260 or a little heavier, the 700 Mountain LSS in .260, done. Problem is these aren't being made anymore, though you can still find some kicking around.

Edited to add. I would suggest that the deciding factor would be do you want to reload? If so, then the .260 is a great option, if not stick with a 6.5 Swede as they are more commercial loads available.
 
Last edited:
if you prefer more modern, lighter rifles the 260 is a great choice. Ballisticly they are twins so it boils down to what type of rifle you want.

Factory ammo is more available for 6.5x55 but it is much milder, 200 fps slower than 260.
 
Last edited:
todbartell said:
if you prefer more modern, lighter rifles the 260 is a great choice. Ballisticly they are twins so it boils down to what type of rifle you want.
Click to expand...

x2 with the addition that the 6.5x55 can be found in Husqvarna, Carl Gustaf, Tikka L65 and other very high quality rifles.
 
6.5x55mm

Personally, I'd say 6.5x55mm but I'm biased because that's what I already have rifles chambered in. :D

But I do admit wanting to get something in .260 Rem just because.... :redface:
 
I was debating for the same caliber duo & I guess the 6.5x55 has a slight edge on the .260Rem. However, old .308 brass seems to be more plentiful than the swede if you're planning to reform the brass.
 
I think I've shot over 30 blacktails and a couple of black bears with my $69 bubba'd 6.5x55 swede using plain 139gr factory ammunition-nothing went very far either-maybe 30 yards and some a lot less than that.Farthest shot was maybe 200 yards max and the average under 50 yards-pretty typical Island hunting.
 
My vote is for the 6.5x55 as well. It offers just a bit more than the .260 especially if you reload. The only advantage that I can see for the .260 is that it only needs a short action rifle where the Swede needs a long action. These days of lightweight alloys and synthetic stocks, the few ounces saved on the shorter action length is a non-factor.
 
says something when a 100 year old chambering can hold its own with the newest whiz-bangs too.The pundits can say all they like about whats better than what but there's just something about standing the test of time.I just like the accuracy,flat shooting , low recoil and the way animals drop quickly when hit with even regular across the counter factory ammo.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom