I would like to build my first custom rifle. I already have a Sako S20 in 6.5 PRC and an AR platform in 6.5 Grendel that I primarily use for stand hunting in Wisconsin.
The custom build would primarily be a range rifle, and I’m considering attending an NRL Hunter event in the future. My goal is a lightweight, low-recoiling, accurate setup that can also be used for whitetail hunting. I have access to a cornfield where I could potentially shoot out to 500 yards. The 6.5 PRC could certainly handle that role, but I’d like to have some options.
These are some of the most popular NRL/PRS cartridges according to Precision Rifle Blog:
6mm Dasher
6mm GT
25x47 Lapua
25 Creedmoor
.308 Win
6mm Creedmoor
6mm BRA
6mm BR
25 GT
22 Dasher
For those with experience with these cartridges, which would be the best options based on the following criteria?
Suitable for whitetail hunting
Available as a Bartlein, Stuteville, or comparable barrel
Good reloading components and load data available
Good options for accurate hunting bullets
Relatively light recoil and good barrel life for a range/competition rifle
I am leaning towards a 6GT or 25GT, but I can’t seem to completely make up my mind. I’ve wanted a 25 Creedmoor for a while, but the GT seems a little better. I want to see what the rest of the board says
Of those you’ve listed and considering your interest in NRL Hunter, only the 308 will make power factor easily under the current format for either Open Lite or Open Heavy. 6.5 Creedmoor makes it but has to be pushed hard. 7mm-08 would be a great consideration that makes power factor while also being low recoiling.
Me personally my time is busy chasing my kids sports events around.. so reloading is not an option for me, so I look at best factory load options. Which comes to be the 6.5 creedmoor, 308, 6.5 prc category’s
Go with the easy button and build yourself a 6 dasher. Load it up with a 95 Nosler Ballistic Tip or 103 ELD-X and kill stuff all day long. Depending on how those shoot, it gives you flexibility to swap to a 105-120 Berger for competition. Comes in barrel mfg’s you want. You will probably need to decide if you want a 7 or 7.5 twist. Good availability of brass and bullets. I just feel like it’s the go to answer. There’s a reason nearly half of all the top 200 PRS shooters have picked it as their go to cartridge.
They do make an exception in production class for 6.5 Creedmoor and factor ammo. Otherwise making power factor is an exorcise in reloading precision itself.
I didn’t realize they were still using power factor in NRL…like why??? Feels like a very antiquated requirement.
Editing to add…apparently you can completely bypass the power factor by using factory ammunition? So…custom factory ammo that shoots amazing and you’ve suddenly got a competitive advantage? I’m not opposed to having different limitations, but this seems silly?
