The 6.5×55 Swedish cartridge, commonly referred to as the 6.5×55 Swede, is a historically significant and highly respected rifle cartridge known for its accuracy, moderate recoil, and effective long-range performance. Developed in the late 19th century for the Swedish and Norwegian military, this cartridge has maintained popularity among hunters, target shooters, and precision rifle enthusiasts. Understanding the ballistics of the 6.5×55 Swede is essential for shooters who wish to optimize performance, choose appropriate ammunition, and make informed decisions about rifle selection. Its combination of velocity, energy, and ballistic coefficient has made it a reliable and versatile choice for a variety of shooting applications.
History and Background of the 6.5×55 Swede
The 6.5×55 Swede was introduced in 1894 as a joint caliber for the Swedish and Norwegian military. It was designed to replace older, larger-bore cartridges with a smaller, more efficient caliber that could deliver accurate and effective fire at longer ranges. The cartridge uses a bottleneck design, which allows for high velocity and good feeding reliability in bolt-action rifles. Over time, the 6.5×55 Swede gained a reputation for exceptional accuracy, mild recoil, and consistent performance, making it popular among hunters and sport shooters beyond its original military use.
Design and Specifications
The 6.5×55 Swede cartridge is characterized by a case length of 55 millimeters and a bullet diameter of 6.5 millimeters. It typically uses bullets weighing between 120 and 160 grains, though specialty hunting loads can go slightly higher. The cartridge has a moderate overall length, allowing it to function reliably in most bolt-action and single-shot rifles. Its relatively low recoil, combined with high ballistic efficiency, makes it suitable for both novice and experienced shooters. Key specifications include
- Bullet diameter 6.7 mm (0.264 in)
- Case length 55 mm (2.165 in)
- Muzzle velocity 2,600 2,900 feet per second depending on bullet weight and load
- Muzzle energy 2,200 2,500 foot-pounds
- Rifling twist typically 18 to 19 inches
Ballistics and Performance
The 6.5×55 Swede is well-known for its efficient ballistics, which combine relatively flat trajectories with retained energy at long ranges. Its high ballistic coefficient, especially with heavier bullets, allows the cartridge to maintain velocity and resist wind drift effectively. This makes it a preferred choice for hunting medium to large game and for precision shooting at extended distances. Modern factory loads and handloads offer a variety of bullet weights and designs, allowing shooters to tailor performance for specific applications.
Trajectory and Accuracy
The trajectory of the 6.5×55 Swede is relatively flat for a cartridge of its age, especially when using 140- to 160-grain bullets. At 100 yards, the bullet drop is minimal, making sighting in simple and predictable. At 300 yards, well-designed bullets maintain a significant portion of their initial energy while showing manageable drop and wind drift. This level of accuracy has contributed to the cartridge’s popularity among target shooters and hunters seeking precise performance at medium to long distances.
Energy and Terminal Performance
Despite its moderate recoil, the 6.5×55 Swede delivers sufficient energy for hunting purposes. For medium-sized game such as deer or antelope, bullets in the 140- to 156-grain range provide clean, ethical kills when placed accurately. For larger game such as moose or elk, premium bullets designed for controlled expansion are recommended to maximize terminal performance. Handloaders often fine-tune powder charges and bullet selection to balance velocity, energy, and recoil for optimal results.
Recoil and Shooter Comfort
One of the advantages of the 6.5×55 Swede is its mild recoil compared to larger hunting cartridges. The cartridge’s moderate powder charge and efficient case design produce a shooting experience that is comfortable for most shooters, allowing for better control and follow-up shots. This feature makes the cartridge ideal for those who prioritize accuracy and comfort, such as hunters who may need to take multiple shots under stressful conditions or target shooters seeking minimal fatigue during long sessions.
Comparison with Other 6.5mm Cartridges
The 6.5×55 Swede is often compared to modern cartridges such as the 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5-284 Norma, and.260 Remington. While newer cartridges may offer higher velocities and flatter trajectories, the 6.5×55 Swede remains competitive due to its combination of accuracy, energy retention, and low recoil. Its larger case volume allows for flexibility in handloading, and its long-standing reputation for reliability in military and civilian rifles ensures continued relevance. Many shooters appreciate its classic design and proven performance in a wide range of conditions.
Hunting Applications
The 6.5×55 Swede is particularly popular among hunters in Europe and North America. Its combination of flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and effective terminal performance makes it suitable for hunting deer, moose, wild boar, and other medium to large game. The cartridge is effective in dense forests as well as open terrain, providing versatility that appeals to hunters of varying skill levels. Choosing the right bullet type and weight is essential to ensure ethical and effective hunting, with options including soft-point, polymer-tipped, and bonded bullets designed for controlled expansion and penetration.
Rifle Compatibility
The 6.5×55 Swede is chambered in a variety of rifle platforms, including bolt-action and single-shot rifles. Popular models include the Swedish Mauser, Sauer 200 STR, and modern hunting rifles from Remington, Tikka, and CZ. Its moderate overall length allows for easy magazine feeding, and its reliable performance has contributed to its reputation as a versatile and user-friendly cartridge. Rifles chambered in 6.5×55 Swede often provide a smooth, accurate shooting experience that complements the cartridge’s ballistic characteristics.
Handloading and Ammunition Considerations
Reloading the 6.5×55 Swede offers shooters the opportunity to optimize performance for specific applications. Handloaders can experiment with powder types, bullet weights, and seating depths to achieve desired velocity, accuracy, and recoil. Factory ammunition is widely available, offering reliable performance for hunting and target shooting. Popular bullet weights include 120, 140, 156, and 160 grains, with different profiles to suit long-range precision, controlled expansion, or deep penetration. Proper handloading practices ensure consistent performance and safe operation within the cartridge’s pressure limits.
Popular Factory Loads
- Hornady 140-grain InterLock SP for medium game
- Sako 156-grain FMJ for target shooting and range use
- Norma 156-grain Oryx for ethical hunting on large game
- Federal Premium 140-grain Nosler Partition for controlled expansion
The 6.5×55 Swede cartridge continues to be a highly regarded choice for hunters, target shooters, and enthusiasts seeking a versatile and reliable rifle round. Its rich history, mild recoil, and excellent ballistics make it a practical and enjoyable cartridge for a variety of shooting applications. Whether used in precision target shooting or medium to large game hunting, the 6.5×55 Swede offers flat trajectories, consistent energy retention, and effective terminal performance. With modern factory ammunition and handloading possibilities, it remains a relevant and effective choice more than a century after its introduction, proving that classic cartridge designs can stand the test of time.