The 6.5 Creedmoor is a highly efficient centerfire rifle cartridge renowned for its excellent long-range ballistics and moderate recoil.The current SAAMI drawing lists the .2644 to .2647 inch bullet-related dimensions, a 1.920 inch case length reference, and a 2.700 to 2.825 inch cartridge length range.Designed originally for precision target shooting, it operates at a SAAMI maximum average pressure of 62,000 PSI.
6.5 Creedmoor Specs
| Specification | 6.5 Creedmoor |
| Cartridge Type | Centerfire rifle |
| Bullet Diameter | .2644 inches |
| Case Length | 1.920 inches |
| Overall Cartridge Length | 2.700 to 2.825 inches |
| Rim Diameter | .473 inches |
| Base Diameter | .4703 inches |
| Neck Diameter | .2950 inches |
| Shoulder Angle | 30 degrees |
| Bore Diameter | .256 inches |
| Groove Diameter | .264 inches |
| Common Bullet Weights | 120 to 147 grains |
| SAAMI Maximum Pressure | 62,000 PSI |
| Typical Rifling Twist | 1 in 8 inches |
| Case Capacity | 52.5 grains H2O |
| Parent Case | .30 Thompson Center |
| Introduced | 2007 |
6.5 Creedmoor Dimensions
The key physical dimensions of the 6.5 Creedmoor prioritize a short, wide powder column and a long neck to secure high ballistic coefficient projectiles. The official SAAMI measurements ensure the cartridge feeds reliably from standard short action magazines while accommodating the 2.825 inch maximum overall length.
| Dimension | Inches | Millimeters |
| Bullet Diameter | .264 | 6.71 |
| Case Length | 1.920 | 48.77 |
| Overall Length | 2.825 | 71.76 |
| Rim Diameter | .473 | 12.01 |
| Base Diameter | .4703 | 11.95 |
| Neck Diameter | .2950 | 7.49 |
6.5 Creedmoor dimensions. Source: Widener’s Reloading and Shooting Supply / 6.5 Creedmoor VS 6.5 Grendel – Wideners Shooting, Hunting & Gun Blog
Cartridge size comparison. Source: Wikipedia / 6.5mm Creedmoor – Wikipedia
6.5 Creedmoor Ballistics
Typical factory ballistics for the 6.5 Creedmoor demonstrate high retained velocity and retained energy at extended ranges due to the exceptional aerodynamic efficiency of .264 caliber bullets. It is important to clearly distinguish standardized specifications from typical factory ammunition performance, as actual results vary depending on the specific rifle barrel and environmental conditions.
| Bullet Weight | Bullet Type | Muzzle Velocity | Muzzle Energy |
| 120 gr | Barnes TTSX | 2,910 fps | 2,256 ft-lbs |
| 130 gr | Norma HPBT | 2,859 fps | 2,360 ft-lbs |
| 140 gr | Hornady ELD Match | 2,710 fps | 2,283 ft-lbs |
| 143 gr | Hornady ELD-X | 2,700 fps | 2,315 ft-lbs |
| 147 gr | Hornady ELD Match | 2,695 fps | 2,372 ft-lbs |
6.5 Creedmoor Specs vs 308
| Specification | 6.5 Creedmoor | .308 Winchester |
| Bullet Diameter | .264 inches | .308 inches |
| Case Length | 1.920 inches | 2.015 inches |
| Overall Length | 2.825 inches | 2.810 inches |
| Common Bullet Weights | 120 to 147 gr | 150 to 175 gr |
| Muzzle Velocity (Match) | ~2,710 fps (140 gr) | ~2,600 fps (168 gr) |
| Muzzle Energy | ~2,300 ft-lbs | ~2,600 ft-lbs |
| Recoil | Moderate (approx. 12 to 14 lbs) | Heavier (approx. 15 to 18 lbs) |
The main difference between 6.5 Creedmoor specs and .308 Winchester is the bullet design and downrange performance.The 6.5 Creedmoor utilizes a longer, highly efficient projectile that cuts through the wind and retains energy better past 500 yards. The .308 Winchester provides a larger frontal area and greater initial muzzle energy. The 6.5 Creedmoor is commonly used in precision rifle competition and medium game hunting, while the .308 Winchester remains a classic choice for hunting and tactical applications where sheer impact mass is preferred.
6.5 Creedmoor Specs FAQs
What are the dimensions of 6.5 Creedmoor?
The core dimensions include a 1.920 inch case length, a 2.825 inch maximum overall length, a .473 inch rim diameter, and a .4703 inch base diameter.
What is the bullet diameter of 6.5 Creedmoor?
The standard bullet diameter is .264 inches, and the SAAMI drawing lists the .2644 to .2647 inch bullet-related dimensions for the bore design.
What is the case length of 6.5 Creedmoor?
The specified SAAMI case length is 1.920 inches.
What is the overall length of 6.5 Creedmoor?
The overall cartridge length ranges from 2.700 to 2.825 inches.
What is the maximum pressure of 6.5 Creedmoor?
The standardized SAAMI maximum average pressure is 62,000 PSI.
What bullet weights are available for 6.5 Creedmoor?
Common factory bullet weights range between 120 grains and 147 grains.
How does 6.5 Creedmoor compare to .308?
The 6.5 Creedmoor shoots a lighter, more aerodynamic bullet that flies flatter with roughly 20 percent less wind drift and less recoil compared to the traditional .308 Winchester cartridge.
How does 6.5 Creedmoor compare to 6.5 PRC?
The 6.5 PRC is a magnum cartridge that fires the exact same bullets roughly 200 feet per second faster than the 6.5 Creedmoor, delivering a flatter trajectory at the cost of increased recoil and faster barrel wear.