6.5 Grendel Reloading Data From Sierra Bullets
CLICK HERE for Sierra Bullets 6.5 Grendel LOAD DATA PDF »
Sierra Bullets has just released load data for the 6.5 Grendel, a popular cartridge that works equally well in bolt guns and AR15-platform gas guns. Sierra published comprehensive 6.5 Grendel load data, covering 19 powders and eight (8) different bullets from 85 to 130 grains. NOTE: Hornady-brand brass (see below) was used for Sierra’s 6.5 Grendel tests, not the stronger Lapua 6.5 Grendel brass. Hand-loaders using Lapua 6.5 Grendel brass may need to adjust their loads. Also Winchester WSR primers were used. We imagine most precision hand-loaders will prefer CCI or Federal primers.
| Sierra Bullets Tested for 6.5 Grendel Load Data | ||
| 85gr HP (#1700) 100gr HP (#1710) 107gr HPBT (#1715) |
120gr Spitzer (#1720) 120gr HPBT (#1725) 123gr HPBT (#1727) |
130gr HPBT (#1728) 130gr TMK (# 7430) |
In developing its 6.5 Grendel load data, Sierra tested a very wide selection of propellants, 19 in all. For the 85gr to 100gr varmint bullets, modern powders such as XMR 2230, Power Pro Varmint, and Ramshot TAC offered the best velocity in the 24″ test barrel. For the heavier 120gr to 130gr match bullets, Sierra tested a selection of powders. Highest velocities came with Power Pro Varmint and TAC. If you’re looking for best accuracy, consider the slower burn-rate powders such as IMR 8208 XBR and Varget — but you’ll sacrifice some speed. Overall, Sierra’s latest 6.5 Grendel load data is an excellent addition to the 6.5 Grendel knowledge base. Thanks Sierra!
Here are Sierra’s 6.5 Grendel Load Data Charts for Sierra’s 123gr HPBT, 130gr HPBT, and 130gr TMK. There are a five other tables for lighter-weight Sierra bullets.
History of the 6.5 Grendel Cartridge
The 6.5 Grendel originated as a 6mm PPC necked up to 6.5 mm. After Alexander Arms relinquished the “6.5 Grendel” Trademark, the 6.5 Grendel was standardized as an official SAAMI cartridge. It has become popular with target shooters and hunters alike because it is accurate, efficient, and offers modest recoil. Good for small to medium game, the 6.5 Grendel is becoming a popular chambering in lightweight hunting rifles, such as the Howa Mini Action Model. It is one of the most accurate cartridges you can shoot in the AR-15 platform.CLICK HERE for 6.5 Grendel Cartridge History (Wikipedia entry).
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Tags: 6.5 Grendel, AR-15, Grendel, Load Data, PPC, Sierra Bullets, Sierra Reloading Manual
Thanks, Sierra, for doing this. Power Pro Varmint seems to be a solid powder across the board that the Grendel community hasn’t explored.
I’d like to see some of the most obvious and common 6.5 Grendel powders also tested: CFE, ARComp, AA2520, and LVR.
I am wondering if these loads are for AR-15 Style rifles or bolt action rifles. Ie loaded to 50000 or 60,000 PSI?
Why no 107gr data?
John, I asked about AR-Comp on sierra’s facebook post and was advised that it is currently in testing so an update will be coming soon.
Adam, open the link to sierra’s blog and you will find more than just the 107
Im really enjoying the power pro varmint on 130 Berger 130 hybrid ar otm . Getting sub moa groups out of 24″ Lilja in ar15. I’m at 28.6gn with light ejector marks . Way better accuracy than cfe223 in my firearm . The accuracy is still better with 8208xbr ,but you’ll sacrifice velocity .
I used Sierra 130 gr. bullets and TAC 26.5 gr. powder with very good results on a AR platform rifle…
Is that the Tipped Sierra you’re talking about? Doesn’t look to fit an AR mag without compressing the load.