.30-06 Springfield vs 6.5mm Creedmoor

A detailed comparison between .30-06 Springfield and 6.5mm Creedmoor covering bullet energy, penetration, ballistics, recoil, and cost data to help you choose the right caliber for your needs.

Ammunition Parameters

.30-06 Springfield Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
Extreme Point Polymer Tip
Bullet Weight:
150 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
2920 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.392
Zero Range:
100 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
1.5 inches

6.5mm Creedmoor Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
Extreme Point Polymer Tip
Bullet Weight:
125 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
2850 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.54
Zero Range:
100 yards
Drag Function:
G1
Sight Height:
1.5 inches

.30-06 Springfield vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Ballistics Chart

Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .30-06 Springfield and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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Want to calculate exact trajectories for these calibers with your specific loads?

.30-06 Springfield vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Energy Comparison

Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .30-06 Springfield and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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.30-06 Springfield vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Bullet Penetration

Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .30-06 Springfield and 6.5mm Creedmoor at self-defense distances.

Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration

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Notes:

  • FBI standard for optimal penetration is 12-18 inches in 10% ballistics gel
  • Our penetration data is calculated using mathematical models based on sectional density, velocity, and expansion factors. While not actual gel tests, our calculations have been validated against manufacturer test data and provide reliable estimates for comparison purposes.
  • Actual results may vary depending on clothing barriers and other factors

.30-06 Springfield vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil

Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .30-06 Springfield and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

.30-06 Springfield Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
150.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
2920.0 fps
Powder Charge:
50 gr
Firearm Weight:
6 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
3.05 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
16.38 fps
Recoil Energy:
25.02 ft·lbf

6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
125.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
2850.0 fps
Powder Charge:
42 gr
Firearm Weight:
6 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
2.51 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
13.48 fps
Recoil Energy:
16.95 ft·lbf
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Notes:

  • Recoil calculations based on bullet weight, velocity, powder charge, and firearm weight
  • Recoil energy indicates the felt force when firing the weapon
  • Recoil impulse represents momentum transfer during firing
  • Actual felt recoil can vary based on grip, stance, and firearm design

.30-06 Springfield vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Velocity

Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .30-06 Springfield and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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.30-06 Springfield vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Average Cost

Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .30-06 Springfield and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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