6.5 Creedmoor Ammo Guide: Best Factory Loads, Ballistics & Long-Range Performance
Introduction to 6.5 Creedmoor
The 6.5 Creedmoor has become one of the most popular rifle cartridges for long-range shooting, hunting, and competition. Developed by Hornady, it offers flat trajectories, minimal wind drift, and excellent energy retention, making it a top choice for shooters looking for precision and performance. Whether you're a hunter, competitive marksman, or tactical shooter, 6.5 Creedmoor factory ammo delivers outstanding results.
Best 6.5 Creedmoor We Sell At Pro Armory
Why Choose 6.5 Creedmoor?
Many shooters prefer 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition due to its:
- Long-Range Accuracy – High ballistic coefficient (BC) bullets provide flat trajectories and reduced wind drift.
- Superior Energy Retention – Heavier bullets maintain more energy at long distances, making them effective for hunting and precision shooting.
- Mild Recoil – Less recoil than .308 Winchester, allowing for better shooter control and faster follow-up shots.
- Versatile Applications – Used for hunting, match shooting, and tactical applications in both bolt-action and semi-auto rifles.
6.5 Creedmoor Ballistics: What to Expect
Factory-loaded 6.5 Creedmoor ammo typically fires a 120- to 147-grain bullet at speeds around 2,700 to 2,850 fps, depending on barrel length and load type.
Typical Ballistics Data (Factory Ammo)
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Bullet Weight
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Muzzle Velocity (fps)
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Energy (ft-lbs)
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Wind Drift (10mph @ 500yds)
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Bullet Drop @ 500yds (inches)
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140 gr ELD-M
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2,710 fps
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2,283 ft-lbs
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~15 inches
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~48 inches
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143 gr ELD-X
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2,700 fps
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2,315 ft-lbs
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~14 inches
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~50 inches
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130 gr Berger Hybrid
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2,850 fps
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2,343 ft-lbs
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~13 inches
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~46 inches
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120 gr GMX
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2,910 fps
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2,254 ft-lbs
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~12 inches
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~42 inches
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The combination of high velocity and excellent BC makes 6.5 Creedmoor factory ammo a top contender for long-range precision shooting and hunting.
6.5 Creedmoor vs. .308 Winchester: Key Differences
Shooters often compare 6.5 Creedmoor vs. .308 Winchester to determine the best long-range cartridge.
- 6.5 Creedmoor – Fires high-BC bullets with less wind drift and recoil, making it the better choice for long-range accuracy.
- .308 Winchester – Offers more raw energy on impact, making it more effective for big-game hunting at shorter distances.
Best 6.5 Creedmoor Factory Ammo
If you're looking for factory-loaded 6.5 Creedmoor ammo, here are some of the best options:
Match & Precision Shooting Ammo
- Hornady Match 140gr ELD-M – A top match ammo choice for long-range target shooting due to its high ballistic coefficient and superior consistency.
- Federal Gold Medal 130gr Berger Hybrid – A premium factory match load designed for extreme precision.
- Berger 140gr Long Range Hybrid Target – Excellent for competitive shooting and precision rifle applications.
Hunting Ammo
- Hornady Precision Hunter 143gr ELD-X – One of the best hunting loads, delivering controlled expansion and deep penetration.
- Nosler Trophy Grade 140gr AccuBond – Ideal for deer and elk hunting, offering excellent weight retention and bone-crushing power.
- Barnes VOR-TX 127gr LRX – A lead-free hunting round designed for reliable expansion and deep penetration.
Reloading 6.5 Creedmoor for Maximum Performance
For reloaders, 6.5 Creedmoor provides outstanding ballistic efficiency. Some of the best powders for accuracy and velocity include:
- H4350 – A consistent performer for long-range loads.
- Varget – Offers excellent temperature stability.
- Reloder 16 – Known for its low extreme spreads and precision.
Is 6.5 Creedmoor Good for Hunting?
Yes! 6.5 Creedmoor hunting ammo is highly effective for medium to large game, including deer, elk, and antelope. The combination of high velocity, deep penetration, and controlled expansion makes it one of the best hunting cartridges available.
Best Rifles Chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor
If you're looking for the best 6.5 Creedmoor rifle, consider these top options:
- Bergara B-14 HMR – A precision rifle designed for competition and hunting.
- Ruger Precision Rifle – A long-range rifle with fully adjustable features.
- Savage 110 Elite Precision – A high-end chassis rifle built for extreme accuracy.
- Christensen Arms Ridgeline – A lightweight hunting rifle with premium materials.
- Tikka T3x CTR – A compact and versatile rifle for all shooting applications.
Final Thoughts: Why 6.5 Creedmoor is a Top Choice
The 6.5 Creedmoor is one of the best long-range cartridges available today, offering exceptional accuracy, reduced recoil, and superior hunting performance. Whether you're a long-range shooter, hunter, or competitive marksman, 6.5 Creedmoor factory ammo delivers consistent results.
For those looking for match-grade precision, hunting effectiveness, or tactical versatility, 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition is a proven performer.
