Precision 6.5mm cartridge in short action. Excellent ballistics with moderate recoil. Overshadowed by 6.5 Creedmoor despite similar performance.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1997, United States
Parent case: .308 Winchester
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.264" (6.71 mm)
Case length: 2.035" (51.69 mm)
Overall length: 2.8" (71.12 mm)
Max pressure: 60,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimless
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:8 to 1:9
Muzzle velocity: 2750–3000 fps
Muzzle energy: 2300–2600 ft-lbs
Effective range: 1000 yd
Common bullet weights: 120, 129, 130, 140 gr
Primary use: Target, Hunting, Competition
Production status: Active
Also known as: .260 Rem · 6.5x51mm
History: Introduced by Remington in 1997. Short-action alternative to 6.5x55 Swedish. Popular with precision shooters until 6.5 Creedmoor came along. Better marketing would have made it dominant.
Notable firearms: Remington 700, Savage Model 10, Ruger American
Similar cartridges: 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5x55 Swedish