The 6.5-06 cartridge is a wildcat rifle round based on the .30-06 Springfield case, necked down to accept a 6.5mm (.264 inch) diameter bullet. This cartridge combines the case capacity of the .30-06 with the high ballistic coefficient of 6.5mm bullets, making it suitable for long-range shooting and hunting.
Key characteristics include:
- Excellent long-range performance due to efficient aerodynamics and high ballistic coefficients of 6.5mm bullets.
- Suitable for medium to large game hunting, including deer, antelope, and even elk.
- Typically offers high muzzle velocity, good accuracy, and manageable recoil, enhancing its effectiveness for precision shooting.
The 6.5-06 is popular among custom rifle enthusiasts and handloaders who appreciate its versatility and performance. It has not been commercially standardized, so factory-loaded ammunition is generally unavailable, requiring handloading for those who use it.