.308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor
The .308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor comparison highlights two modern hunting and precision cartridges with distinctly different ballistic approaches. The .308 Winchester (150gr Extreme Point at 2820 fps) delivers higher energy, maintaining 2433 ft-lbs at 50 yards compared to the 6.5mm Creedmoor's (125gr Extreme Point at 2850 fps) 2121 ft-lbs. Both cartridges demonstrate substantial penetration for hunting applications, with the 6.5mm Creedmoor reaching 36.1-36.4 inches and the .308 Winchester achieving 22.5-22.7 inches, both well beyond defensive requirements. The recoil comparison favors the 6.5mm Creedmoor, generating 16.95 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus the .308's 22.2 ft-lbs. While both cartridges share similar muzzle velocities, the .308's heavier bullet provides greater energy transfer, though the 6.5mm Creedmoor's superior ballistic coefficient offers better long-range performance characteristics. Remember that performance varies considerably with different ammunition selections and firearm platforms, so these figures represent typical hunting loadings rather than definitive performance benchmarks.
Ammunition Parameters
.308 Winchester Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
6.5mm Creedmoor Parameters (Self-Defense Load)
.308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Ballistics Chart
Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between .308 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
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.308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Energy Comparison
Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between .308 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Bullet Penetration
Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between .308 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
.308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil
Comparing recoil energy and impulse between .308 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.308 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
.308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Velocity
Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for .308 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.
.308 Winchester vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Average Cost
Comparing cost per round and training affordability between .308 Winchester and 6.5mm Creedmoor.