6.5 x 54 M-S Does it really overperform its ballistics on real game

[geologist]

I have a 6.5 x 54 M-S carbine but have not shot anything with it.

Recoil is mild in the light weight carbine with the factory 160 gr softpoint PRIVI ammo so my question is how does it perform in the field on moderate range, say 150 yards and less on deer, moose and black bear size game? Assume good shot placement.

The literature is crazy positive in its effectiveness on game, probably in large part due to its high sectional density.

Does anyone have actual hunting experience, good or bad, with this venerable old classic cartridge?

 

[anietfeld]

I think all 6.5’s punch above their weight class, and have been for over 100 years. No need to re-invent the wheel!

 

[mmattockx]

I've not shot 6.5x54, but I've shot a couple dozen deer with 6.5x55 and seen one deer shot with 6.5 Creedmoor by a hunting partner, so I've seen plenty shot with 6.5mm bullets. They all were shot with 140gr or 130gr bullets, though, so no direct 160gr experience. I don't think it will matter in the end, though.

If you put the bullet in the right place they all fall over dead, no issues. The moderate velocities also mean less meat damage if you hit a bigger muscle along the way.


Mark

 

[iron cat]

I just saw this thread, I have owned 3 6.5X54 Mannlicher carbines.
The best one I owned went to a friend, we both shot several deer with it, and I got it back this fall.
This rifle has a pile of tally marks cut into the stock!
It has the built in peep sight on the bolt as well.
It is a very good rifle accuracy wise at 200 meters off hand, and we have killed deer with everything from 120 grain Barnes to 160 Hornady and Seirra bullets.
Cat