6.5-06 'Build' Thread

[Shorthunter]

Thought I'd share a build I did last month. This one turned out pretty.

This all started with Bushnell upgrading my scope for free as part of a warranty claim. My $200 scope turned into a Match Pro due to backorders and excellent customer service.

Started with a Savage Axis II 30/06. After stripping it down, I ordered a Boyd's stock and Shilen match barrel in 6.5/06. While waiting on the barrel, I did some trigger work to eliminate over travel and creep. Wound up at 1# 8oz on the trigger with a very crisp break.

Boyd's had me the stock within 10 days and I had my Shilen from Crown Ridge Barrel Works in 15 days.

I've done some load development with 147gr ELD match bullets and 123gr Sierra match bullets. If you guys have suggestions on powders or bullet jump feel free. Right now I'm at .055" jump with the ELDM and .040" jump with the Sierras. I've found good speed with Reloader 15.5 and Ramshot Hunter.

 

[nemis2010]

What did you find your best projectile was? I am building a 6.5-06 ai 1-8 twist

 

[Justin Crossley]

What did you find your best projectile was? I am building a 6.5-06 ai 1-8 twist

Bergers are always hard to beat for accuracy, in my experience.

My 6.5-06 IA's have all shot the 147 ELD-M well too.

 

[nemis2010]

Bergers are always hard to beat for accuracy, in my experience.

My 6.5-06 IA's have all shot the 147 ELD-M well too.

Are you shooting 153.5 or 155 bergers?

 

[Justin Crossley]

Are you shooting 153.5 or 155 bergers?

No, I've mostly shot the 140 VLD (about 2k rounds) and some 130 VLD. I've also shot 2-3k 147 ELD-M's.

I bought a bunch of the 156 Bergers to try out, but last season I ended up hunting with the 142 ABLR instead. Those performed well on an antelope and two mule deer but didn't shoot quite as well as the Bergers and ELD-Ms typically do.

 

[nemis2010]

Bergers are always hard to beat for accuracy, in my experience.

My 6.5-06 IA's have all shot the 147 ELD-M well too.

No trouble with the 147's going poof? I plan on launching them at 3150? I can get ELDM's for cheap from my friend but hear horror stories of them popping midair at excess velocities/rpms

 

[Justin Crossley]

No trouble with the 147's going poof? I plan on launching them at 3150? I can get ELDM's for cheap from my friend but hear horror stories of them popping midair at excess velocities/rpms

No issues at all. I was running them around 3050 fps.

 

[nemis2010]

Sounds like the horror stories are unfounded..

 

[6mm Remington]

I had contemplated building a 6.5-06 when I built my one and only custom rifle I'll probably ever have, but ended up going 280AI. That being said I feel that the following bulets would work well in such a build. I've used these (Accubond - E-tip - Partition) other calibers and have had fantastic success with all of them.
6-5-06 selection:
120 gr. E-tip. .497 B.C.
130 gr. Accubond .488 B.C.
140 gr. Accubond .509 B.C.
140 gr. Partition .490
These would be my picks for bullets used on big-game.

 

[Shorthunter]

I'm pushing the 147eldm just over 3,000 in this gun, no issues. I cannot say what will be more accurate at this point. I've basically found where I want to be with powder charge, yet to try different seating depths.

 

[Shorthunter]

Did a little more work on this one. Aluminum pillars and bedding. The Pro-Bed 2000 is a little difficult to work with but does stay in place once you get it where you want it.

I failed to get a picture of the finished product but did grab one after I pulled the barrel and action. Now it's time to do some more shooting