6.5 PRC vs 6.5 RPM

[jermolind]

Looking at getting a new rifle and came across the 2 newer 6.5 cartridges. 6.5 PRC and 6.5 RPM. At first blush it looks like they are pretty much identical on ballistics but the cost of ammo is drastically different between the two. Any reason for this other than one is Weatherby so it automatically costs more? Just curious if there’s a benefit to buying one over the other.

 

[BCsteve]

The RPM is pretty cool but if care about factory ammo and brass availability, PRC is the only answer.

 

[britz1784]

I have the RPM. I love it. I wanted a Weatherby rifle and thought the cartridge was pretty cool. I've harvested two mule deer with it and both were dead rather quickly.

 

[Steve from GA]

Might consider posting this in the firearms subforum

 

[wyoutdoors]

I do not have experience with the 6.5 RPM but have shot thousands of rounds through a 6.5PRC both hunting and in long range competition and it has become one of my favorite cartridges. Very forgiving during load development and plenty of power for elk with the correct bullet selection. We have taken dozens of bulls with the 6.5 PRC from distances of 75yds to 1275yds with the majority being over 900yds (I know this will catch some hate) and not a single one has traveled more than 20-30 yds after being hit. On steel I have shot out to 2000 yds with my comp rifle but outside of 1500 yds the Wyoming wind really starts to be an issue with the little 6.5 bullet. I am shooting 153gr A-tips in Lapua brass at 2980fps out of a 28” barrel. For ELR steel at 1500+ I’m building a 300NM throated for 250gr. A-tips.