.30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor
Analyzing the .30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor illustrates the stark differences between traditional woods hunting cartridges and modern precision-focused designs. The 6.5mm Creedmoor (125gr Extreme Point at 2850 fps) delivers notably higher energy, maintaining 2121 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the .30-30 Winchester's (150gr Extreme Point at 2390 fps) 1608 ft-lbs. Both cartridges show substantial penetration for hunting applications, with the 6.5mm Creedmoor reaching 36.1-36.4 inches and the .30-30 achieving 26.3-26.9 inches, both well above defensive thresholds. Recoil levels remain comparable, with the .30-30 generating 14.21 ft-lbs versus the 6.5mm Creedmoor's 16.95 ft-lbs. While the venerable .30-30 continues serving hunters effectively in dense cover situations, the 6.5mm Creedmoor's superior ballistic coefficient and energy retention make it the clear choice for longer-range precision work. The selection between these cartridges depends largely on hunting style and terrain rather than one being universally superior to the other.
Ammunition Parameters
.30-30 Winchester Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
6.5mm Creedmoor Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .30-30 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
Try Our Ballistics Calculators
Want to calculate exact trajectories for these calibers with your specific loads?
.30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .30-30 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .30-30 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor at self-defense distances.
Self-Defense Ammunition Penetration
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
.30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .30-30 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.30-30 Winchester Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil (Self-Defense Load)
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
.30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .30-30 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.30-30 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .30-30 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.