6.5 mm

I now have the opportunity to purchase a new 6.5mm. Any recomendations? I'm. Looking for a gun that could resonably be used for coyote through elk size animals. I've done some research regarding this calliber and have found excellent results out to 800 yards with decent penetration.
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JDavid
6.5 creedmoor I have one in a ruger mark 2. I love it. I took it elk hunting last year. I shot plenty of dogs and got my elk shooting 120 gr Barnes bullets. For long range bench I shoot 140 gr. Sierras they fly great out to 650 yds.
I would recommend 6.5x284.
Just find the brand and model of the rifle you want that is in either caliber and you wont be dissatisfied
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Loafer
Maybe its just me but 6.5 seems small for elk. I'm not saying its cant kill one but theres probably a very small margin of error. Aim small miss small, right?
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dahlmer
Probably a bit light for elk. I think the lightest I would dare go for elk would be a 270. That being said I have taken a spike bull with a 6mm, I just wouldn't recommend it.
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JDavid
Its all how confident you are. My mom shoots a 257 Roberts and that gun has killed more elk than all my rifles combined. If your comfortable with your abilities and equipment 6.5mm will be fine.
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Springville Shooter
6.5's have long had a reputation in the long-range world and deservedly so. This caliber offers very high BC's and good velocity in most offerings. I personally like the Creedmore and the 6.5-06. The 260 Rem, 6.5-284, and 6.5-55 are also great choices. If I were planning on consistently using the 6.5 for elk, I would probably lean toward the 264 win mag or 6.5-06. My personal choice would be the 6.5-06 Ackley improved, but I would never try to argue this as a choice that makes much sense, just one that I like. -------SS
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chet
If a lightweight mountain rifle is what you desire, then a 260rem would be my choice. (Kimber 84m montana to be precise)

If you can get away with a medium weight 26" barrel long action, then I'd go with a 264 win mag. (find a decent used M70 or 700)

A 6.5/284 fits somewhere in between the two.

Bullet selection is getting to be quite plentiful. Making the "little" 6.5 very versatile!!!
I have other calibers I'd rather shoot an elk with, but I sure wouldn't judge a man for using it.

I've got some friends who shoot a wildcat. 6.5wsm. or 6.5rock. It's quite impressive!!! but only available on a custom platform.
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TheGreatwhitehunter
6.5x284 is preety sweet, but the 264 win mag is a good choice and still can be gotten from remington in some of there rifles.
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