6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor

The 6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor comparison shows what a larger case capacity does for the 6.5mm bore. The 6.5 PRC (143gr ELD-X at 2960 fps) carries 1610 ft-lbs to 500 yards, while the 6.5mm Creedmoor (125gr Polymer Tip at 2850 fps) arrives with 1176 ft-lbs. Drop at 500 yards measures 43.5 inches for the PRC and 49.6 inches for the Creedmoor. Recoil differs more than shooters expect: the 6.5 PRC produces 22.4 ft-lbs of recoil energy versus 17.0 ft-lbs for the Creedmoor. The Creedmoor fits in short actions and costs less per round, while the PRC extends effective range on larger game. Performance varies with ammunition selection and rifle platform.

Ammunition Parameters

6.5 PRC Parameters (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Type:
ELD-X
Bullet Weight:
143 grains
Muzzle Velocity:
2960 fps
Ballistic Coefficient:
0.625
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

6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Ballistics Chart

Comparing bullet drop at various ranges between 6.5 PRC and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Energy Comparison

Comparing the muzzle energy and energy retention at various distances between 6.5 PRC and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Bullet Penetration

Comparison of estimated penetration depth in 10% ballistic gel between 6.5 PRC 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

6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Recoil

Comparing recoil energy and impulse between 6.5 PRC and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

6.5 PRC Recoil (Self-Defense Load)

Bullet Weight:
143.0 gr
Bullet Velocity:
2960.0 fps
Powder Charge:
56.0 gr
Firearm Weight:
7.0 lbs
Recoil Impulse:
3.12 lbs·sec
Recoil Velocity:
14.35 fps
Recoil Energy:
22.41 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

6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Velocity

Velocity decay from muzzle to 500 yards for 6.5 PRC and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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6.5 PRC vs 6.5mm Creedmoor Average Cost

Comparing cost per round and training affordability between 6.5 PRC and 6.5mm Creedmoor.

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