I probably don't have to tell you this, but if you're going to build up a 6.5 anything, figure out what you're going to really want to do with it. Twist rate is critical. 1-7 or maybe 1-8 for VLD 160 grainers for long range, or the 140gr boat tails and a throat long enough to accomadate the ogive. 1-8 to 1-10 for bullet weights from 90-the flat base 140grn spire points (140 spire points are about the limit for 140 grn flat base for stabiliseing) The 6.5-06 needs to push the 140 grn flat base over 3000 fps to get good stability frim a 1-10 twist bbl, that is the case with both of mine. The main problem with most reamers is that the throats are to long = to much freebore etc. I've bought a special Manson reamer with a short throat for the lighter bullets in my 6.5-06s', both of which had long throats and needed the bbls set back and rechambered to get better than mediocore results from the rifles. The nice thing about the 6.5-06 in its standard form, is the simple forming process of the brass, availability of standard length actions from any and all commercial mfgs, decent throat life and if the rifle is put together by someone that knows what they're doing, great accuracy on a par with anything out there right out to 1000yds. I don't know about catinthehat, probably a stand up guy that knows his stuff, but mysticplayer has a pretty good reutation around my area. Get in touch with either of them for more details and bash over what you're really looking for, the 260 REM or 6.5x55 may just cover all of your needs adequately. bearhunter
