Fast, flat-shooting 6mm that lost the marketing war to .243 Winchester. Actually superior ballistics but doomed by slow-twist barrels in original rifles.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1955, United States
Parent case: 7x57mm Mauser
Standardization: SAAMI
Bullet diameter: 0.243" (6.17 mm)
Case length: 2.233" (56.72 mm)
Overall length: 2.825" (71.76 mm)
Max pressure: 62,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimless
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:9
Muzzle velocity: 3100–3500 fps
Muzzle energy: 2200–2700 ft-lbs
Effective range: 600 yd
Common bullet weights: 75, 87, 95, 100, 105 gr
Primary use: Varmint, Hunting, Target
Production status: Active
Also known as: .244 Remington · 6mm Rem
History: Introduced as .244 Remington in 1955 to compete with Winchester's .243. Initially marketed as varmint cartridge with slow twist barrels that wouldn't stabilize heavier bullets. Winchester's .243 had faster twist and was marketed for deer. Remington lost the competition badly. Renamed 6mm Remington in 1963 with proper twist but damage was done. Excellent cartridge that never recovered from poor…
Notable firearms: Remington Model 700, Remington Model 742, Ruger Model 77, Savage 110
Similar cartridges: .243 Winchester, 6mm Creedmoor