I'm fairly new to precision shooting but excited about learning. I've decided to go with a GAP-10 for the present and hope to take it out to 1000 yards with practice. I've done lots of reading, and it seems like many of you are absolutely sold on 6.5CM over the standard .308. I initially plan to use this weapon to learn long range precision fundamentals, and potentially join competitions down the road as my skills improve. Hunting is not a priority for this rifle. Another variable is I currently do not reload (though certainly would like to learn at some point).
To sum up the pros and cons of 6.5CM as I understand them so far:
+Better BC, flatter flight profile
+Better in wind
+Less recoil
-Shorter barrel life (vs .308)
-Requires longer barrel for effective velocities (?)
-Much less factory ammo available, brass hard to find
I am not made of money, so cost of ammo is a factor to me as well. I see that Hornady 120 A-MAX match is about $1.20/rnd right now, whereas .308 match tends to be around $1.50/rnd (ie. FGGM).
Other factors I'm considering are the barrel length. I would like the rifle to be of reasonable size/weight, be able to mount a brake, and potentially suppressible. These desires would limit me to a maximum of a 20" barrel.
Ultimately, what do you guys suggest? I really like the idea of 6.5 Creedmoor and am willing to accept the barrel life compromise. I'm essentially worried that a 20" barrel is too short to get adequate MV, and that the lack of match quality ammo will limit my options as a non-reloader.
I await your infinite wisdom!
To sum up the pros and cons of 6.5CM as I understand them so far:
+Better BC, flatter flight profile
+Better in wind
+Less recoil
-Shorter barrel life (vs .308)
-Requires longer barrel for effective velocities (?)
-Much less factory ammo available, brass hard to find
I am not made of money, so cost of ammo is a factor to me as well. I see that Hornady 120 A-MAX match is about $1.20/rnd right now, whereas .308 match tends to be around $1.50/rnd (ie. FGGM).
Other factors I'm considering are the barrel length. I would like the rifle to be of reasonable size/weight, be able to mount a brake, and potentially suppressible. These desires would limit me to a maximum of a 20" barrel.
Ultimately, what do you guys suggest? I really like the idea of 6.5 Creedmoor and am willing to accept the barrel life compromise. I'm essentially worried that a 20" barrel is too short to get adequate MV, and that the lack of match quality ammo will limit my options as a non-reloader.
I await your infinite wisdom!
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