6.5CM loads for deer

[Aabradsh]

Guys loading 6.5CM

What are you loading for bullets/powder combinations?

I’ve done some research that suggests I should stick to 120-130gr bonded or partitioned projectiles, to keep velocity on the higher end and help with penetration. But wanted to see what guys are loading.

Some experience friends of mine have had with 140gr loads have typically not gotten pass-throughs, leading to minimal blood trails.

I’m leaning towards a 130gr accubond. Despite then costing a fortune these days, I loved them in my .308.

 

[Copenhagencowboy]

Had luck with h4350 and hornady 143 eldx. Taken a few whitetails and a black bear. Furthest was a small buck at 300

 

[BLCB]

Been using Hornady Match 147 ELD-M, mostly because I have several cases of it. Bang/flop every time. Deer aren't very tough. I would use a .223 for most of my deer hunting if it were legal.

 

[70m4h4wk]

120gr ttsx would be my pick if you're going for velocity. I've seen them pass through elk at 200ish yards

 

[todbartell]

Near endless options to be tried. Bullet construction / design is more important than the bullet weight for a desired terminal effect. A 147 ELDm will do much different things than a 100gr TTSX. Dead deer will be the common denominator for all

 

[BLCB]

120gr ttsx would be my pick if you're going for velocity. I've seen them pass through elk at 200ish yards

I am planning to use 120grn Hornady CX for elk. I hope they perform as well as TTSX did for you.

 

[Suther]

Guys loading 6.5CM

What are you loading for bullets/powder combinations?

I’ve done some research that suggests I should stick to 120-130gr bonded or partitioned projectiles, to keep velocity on the higher end and help with penetration. But wanted to see what guys are loading.

Some experience friends of mine have had with 140gr loads have typically not gotten pass-throughs, leading to minimal blood trails.

I’m leaning towards a 130gr accubond. Despite then costing a fortune these days, I loved them in my .308.

If complete pass through is the goal, hard to go wrong with a TSX.

It should be noted higher velocity and lighter bullet weight both tend to reduce penetration. A 130 accubond will most likely penetrate less than the 140AB. I see no reason to think either wouldn't kill a deer if the shooter does his job though.