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Range Report 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

J

Jeremybj

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Jun 13, 2011
643
36
38
Council Bluffs, Iowa
#1
Ok guys, I did my first Savage barrel swap and have been biten by the bug...... So time to think about building another rifle!

I am going to use a stevens 200 short action build from there. I want a dedicated target rifle, I am kinda set on the 6.5mm bullet.

Basically I want to know which round would be "better" for a target gun, the 6.5x47 Lapua or the 6.5 Creedmoor. I know this is a subjective question, but give me some reasons so I can weigh the pros and cons of each round. Yes, I know the 260 Remington is also a 6.5mm round, but something about it just doesn't tickle my fancy.

Lastly, I reload, so ammo availablity is of no concern.

Thanks for any input.
 
#3
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

6.5 Creedmore;

Okay brass
High Quality factory ammo for $25.00 per 20
Better barrel life than a .260
Factory ammunition more readily available than 6.5x47
No ballistic edge on .260 or 6.5x47

6.5x47
Excellent brass
High guality factory ammunition for $65.00 per 20
Factory ammunition sparse
Better barrel life than a 6.5 Creedmore
Uses less powder

You will not see a difference in ballistics between the 2. I have a 6.5x47 for my match, comp rifle, and a 6.5 Creedmore for my hunting rig. The deciding factor for choosing the Creedmore for my hunting rig was the availability if factory ammunition, and when i lose a piece if brass it doesn't bother me. If for some reason I went on a hunting trip and forgot my ammo, I would be more likely to find the Creedmore ammo at the gun store than I would Lapua ammo.
 
#4
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

6.5x47 uses small rifle primers and can have issues with firing pins cratering primers with out modification.


6.5Creed barrel life was 3500rounds out of JFComforts Shilen and 4200 accurate rounds out of my Lothar Walther.
 
#6
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I've never had issues with cratered Primers.

Barrel life is hugely dependent on your type of firing.

Under the same firing conditions the Lapua will typically last longer than the Creedmore.
 
#7
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I've had no issue with FP cratering in the lapua.

I have couple of each with different barrel lengths.

You should get a few more FPS out of the CM with all else equal.

Barrel life depends on your loads/powder/style of shooting.
 
#8
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: D. Miller</div><div class="ubbcode-body">6.5x47 uses small rifle primers and can have issues with firing pins cratering primers with out modification.


6.5Creed barrel life was 3500rounds out of JFComforts Shilen and 4200 accurate rounds out of my Lothar Walther. </div></div>

Yes the x47 uses a small rifle primer. It's part of what helps with its consistant accuracy. However, the issues you speak of are not as common as your making someone think. Yes, it's best to have the bolt bushed and the pin turned down, but this is common knowledge and common practice. It's not a "every once in a while" type thing. It's certainly no reason for someone to be steered away from the x47 or pick another caliber over it due to this.
 
#9
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

six of one, half dozen of another......

6.5Creedmoor: Cheaper Good Brass, Cheaper Factory Ammo.

6.5x47Lapua: Expensive Excellent Brass, Expensive Factory Ammo.

Performance & Barrel Life: Too close to call. Creedmoor has the capacity advantage, Lapua brass and SRP holds higher pressure better.

If you shoot lost brass matches, the Creedmoor a better choice. If not, the Lapua brass lasting almost indefinitely gets the nod.
 
#11
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

Either an excellent choice. Never had a primer cratering issues with my 6.5L, so don't let that decide the issue. I'm happy with the Lapua brass as I'm super lazy with brass prep and that basically was the reason I went with the 6.5L instead of the 6.5C. Out in the field however, you will not be able to shoot the difference between the two, if there is one. If you don't reload, there is only one choice: 6.5C.
 
#13
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jeremybj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So is the primer issue "common" on a 6.5x47 or is a certain rifle more prone to it than others? </div></div>

I didnt say it was common but it does happen. Apparently modifying your pin is common practice and common knowledge with the 6.5x47.

This is really a Ford vs Chevy debate, its all personal preference. I shoot the Creedmoor and love it.

 
#15
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

Both the other 6.5's in this thread fit much better in short action magazines as the throats burn up. Especially for those shooting VLD's.

I chose the 6.5CM over the x47L for brass reasons; I don't like having to buy Lapua brass that costs $1/piece for match use.

I've been very lazy with my brass prep (aka: none) and my rifle is still shooting 200yd groups between 3/8-1/2 <span style="font-weight: bold">inch</span> after appx 2500rd.
 
#16
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

the 6.5X47 Lapua shooting the 130 JLK bullets at 2950-3000 FPS is pretty hard to beat.


But a heavy bullet in the creedmore or the .260 and the 6.5x47 actual competes with all of them. And better brass life. And better brass. And better barrel life.
 
#18
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

Sort of off topic...

Is Hornady the only manufacturer of 6.5 creedmoor ammo and brass? Do they have some "exclusive" rights for this caliber?

I really trust Lapua brass and bullets. I'd love to see a 6.5 creedmoor case made by Lapua!
 
#19
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

Since you reload I personally would go with Lapua. I just bought a 6.5L here from a member and havent fired it yet but am very excited about the cartridge and especially the life of the brass. That being said I eventually plan to build a 6.5 Creedmoor to be able to have a caliber that has premium factory loaded ammo available at reasonable cost if I get lazy and decide I dont want to reload to go do a match or something just like having that option. Either way though I think youd be good both have nearly identical ballistics lookup I think in the Gunsmith section Lowlights 6.5 Creed build exceptionally accurate shooting rig.
 
#20
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

The Lapua has far superior brass. The small primer pocket gives you a stronger case head. It was designed for 300 m bench rest but I have stretched mine out a lot further than that. I would tell you how far but you wouldn't believe me. Just look on the Parma gun Club website for the Mile Shoot match scores.
 
#21
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: a-hull</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would make the choice based off what bullet I wanted to shoot.
130 or less 6.5x47. Heavier and I would go creedmoor. Only for the slightly larger case capacity. But thats just me. </div></div>

I have to disagree with this mine shoots 140 SMK's in the .120s with regularity. In fact I've shot several groups at 600 well under 3" with 140 Bergers.
 
#22
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I say, 6.5 L. I'm getting 2895 out of 142's using RL17. I know it has a temp stability issue but, i've learned to deal with it.

I have one of each and my level of satisfaction goes, 6.5L, 6.5 Creed then the 260. I wouldn't say I hate the 260, I just don't like it AND its a fine shooting rifle.
 
#23
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

Goin' Hot - How do you deal with the temp stability of R17?

I've got 2 6.5 Lapuas with 27" barrels. One hammers the 140 vld at 2800 with 40.4g H4350. I can't get the velocity I want out of the 140s with H4350 with the other barrel - way too much pressure. I could probably get to 2800 with R17 with no pressure, but I don't know if I would be better off trying the 130vlds with H4350. I'm just wondering if finding a good OCW with R17 would alleviate most of the problems with the temp stability issue.

I'm having a Creedmoor built right now. H4350 is a good temp stable powder for the 6.5 Lapua, but you have to push it hard if you want to get to 2800+, atleast that is the case with mine.
 
#24
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I try to deal with it two different ways.

-Keep the ammo cool and out of the sun.
-Vary the charge based on the temp. I load the day before I shoot and use 70 degrees as my base line. If its going to reach 90+, I drop 0.2 gr less powder. If its only getting to 50 that day, I drop 0.2 gr more powder. Its worked for me this far.
 
#25
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

MDM you will easily get 2800+ with the Creedmoor and the 140s. I have a new H4350 load that is getting me 2930fps with the 140 AMAX and no pressure signs. Start about 41.5grns and work up.
 
#26
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

X47
Bush the firing pin period

i run one, luv it but will not build another brass cost is crazy
options
SLR 6 or 6.5 no fire forming, based on 243 win

6XC
Buy brass direct from tubb, its only $8 more than hornady CM brass. Norma brass is very good, rated to 65k psi
run as 6mm or neck up to 6.5 and you have large primer version of x47 @ 50% cheaper brass.

6XC option makes most sense
 
#27
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I posted in a 6.5x47L thread awhile back, look it up for photos on the large firing pin hole issue. Don't know if your Savage bolt head will encounter the same issue or not.
 
#28
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I had great accuracy with the 6.5CM and 140 Berger VLD's and 44.5 of H4350 but to get in the 2900 area I was causing the primer pockets to open up too much.

I would like to get the 140VLD's at 2920-50ish and not eat up the brass but have not found a way to do it yet.
 
#29
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rob01</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a new H4350 load that is getting me 2930fps with the 140 AMAX and no pressure signs.</div></div>

What barrel length, Rob?
 
#31
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rob01</div><div class="ubbcode-body">MDM you will easily get 2800+ with the Creedmoor and the 140s. I have a new H4350 load that is getting me 2930fps with the 140 AMAX and no pressure signs. Start about 41.5grns and work up. </div></div> I will be happy with 2850, anything more will be a bonus. I'd like to get decent brass life. My new creedmoor will be a 28" Kreiger mtu contour in an AICS 1.5.
 
#32
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Goin'Hot</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I try to deal with it two different ways.

-Keep the ammo cool and out of the sun.
-Vary the charge based on the temp. I load the day before I shoot and use 70 degrees as my base line. If its going to reach 90+, I drop 0.2 gr less powder. If its only getting to 50 that day, I drop 0.2 gr more powder. Its worked for me this far. </div></div>Thanks I may have to revisit r17 with the rifle I'm having pressure issues with the 140s.

For what it's worth I've put together 3 different 6.5 lapuas on savage actions and not had any issues with the firing pin.
 
#33
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rob01</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just had it set back from my 28" so it's about 26.5" now. </div></div>

Thanks Rob. Just trying to get a sense of what you can realistically expect from the Creedmore with a 26" barrel.

My 26" 260 TRG could safely run at over 2850 but it was most accurate with 140 Berger VLDs just below 2800. (H4350) Unfortunately the OAL was too long for the mag.

When I had the 26" 6.5x47L on it, it would blow primers over 2800. (H4350)

My choice now is between the 6.5 SLR and the Creedmore.
 
#35
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

6.5x47L brass is a reloaders dream. Primer pockets are always tight. Super accurate round and best of all one of the most effecient rounds. I built a 6.5 without bushing the firing pin and run some hot loads, thing still funs great, never had an issue, just sayin...
 
#36
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I have shot both 6.5CM and 65x47LM extensivly.Performance wise I would say they are close with an edge going to the 65x47LM because of superior components and IMO overall more consistant accuracy.If you reload, the 6.5x47 is definetly the way to go.This shit about cratering primers is not an issue.I have ran over 4000 rounds and just on my second barrel with the 6.5x47LM and never had that problem once.Funny cause Ive seen it on a few 6.5CM builds.I run 123s at 3050fps and 139s at 2900fps on my 6.5x47LM build out of a 26" barrel and get around 12to15 reloads no problem.If debating between the two go with the 6.5x47LM and dont look back.You will be happy you made that choice in the end.
 
#37
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TexasReaperM40</div><div class="ubbcode-body">...This shit about cratering primers is not an issue....</div></div>
Just to clarify, the issue is about some rifles, not the cartridge.
 
#39
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rob01</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just had it set back from my 28" so it's about 26.5" now. </div></div>

How many rounds did you go before set back? What was the accuracy of the barrel before set back?

Thanks

Jerry
 
#40
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

Barrel had a out 2300 rounds through it. It had been shot hard all except about 200 rounds were at matches. Throat was getting longer and there was some cracking so I just wanted to get it ready for this year and not have it go down mid season on me.

I only shoot factory ammo at matches so the longer throat and cracking were making accuracy go to about the 3/4 moa range when it used to be sub 1/2 moa. I am sure a handloader could have chased the lands and made the barrel last another 1000 rounds or so.
 
#41
Re: 6.5x47 Lapua VS 6.5 Creedmoor

I took the 6.5CM out to a match today with "ball park" data after adding a Surefire break. The 123's and 39.5 of Varget gave me a 4" group at 1K (4" for horizontal and 2.5" for vertical spread). With the SF break I could watch my own trace and it felt like a pellet gun.
(68F, +1100 DA, 8.5mils of elevation)

Texas, what powders are you pushing the 123's/139's 6.5x47 with?
 
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