6.5 mm (.264) Bullets for Reloading

6.5 mm (.264) bullets for reloading

Bullets in 6.5 mm calibre normally have a diameter of .264 inch. This bullet diameter is used in a wide variety of rifle cartridges, ranging from classic calibres such as the 6.5×55 Swedish to modern cartridges including the 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC and 6.5 Grendel.

The 6.5 mm calibre is widely used in target shooting thanks to its combination of efficient bullet design, moderate recoil and excellent long-range performance. Bullets are available in a wide range of weights and constructions, allowing reloaders to choose a design that matches their cartridge, barrel twist rate and intended application.

Which cartridges use .264 bullets?

The designation 6.5 mm (.264) refers to the diameter of the bullet rather than one specific cartridge. The same bullet diameter is used in cartridges with very different case designs, capacities and performance characteristics.

• 6.5 Creedmoor – one of the most popular modern cartridges for precision shooting and long-range disciplines.
• .260 Remington – based on the .308 Winchester case and suitable for a wide range of 6.5 mm bullet weights.
• 6.5×55 Swedish – a classic cartridge also known as the 6.5×55 SE.
• 6.5 PRC – a modern magnum rifle cartridge designed for longer 6.5 mm bullets.
• 6.5 Grendel – a compact cartridge using .264-inch bullets.
• 6.5×47 Lapua – developed specifically for precision and competition shooting.
• 6.5-284 Norma – widely used for precision shooting at extended distances.
• .264 Winchester Magnum – a classic magnum rifle cartridge in 6.5 mm calibre.
• 6.5 Weatherby RPM – a modern 6.5 mm cartridge with generous case capacity.
• 26 Nosler – a high-performance cartridge using .264-inch bullets.
• 6.5 Remington Magnum – a short magnum rifle cartridge introduced during the twentieth century.
• 6.5×50 Japanese – a historic military cartridge using .264-inch bullets.
• 6.5×52 Carcano – a historic cartridge developed for Italian Carcano rifles.

Not every .264 bullet is suitable for every cartridge listed above. Bullet weight, length, profile and construction should always match the specific cartridge and rifle being used.

Types of 6.5 mm bullets

6.5 mm bullets are available in a variety of designs. The most suitable construction depends on the intended discipline, shooting distance and loading requirements.

• Match bullets – designed for shooters who value consistent shape and weight distribution.
• Hollow Point Boat Tail (HPBT) – combines a hollow point with a tapered boat-tail base.
• Polymer- or aluminium-tipped bullets – featuring a separate tip as part of an aerodynamic bullet profile.
• Soft Point – incorporating an exposed lead tip.
• Monolithic bullets – manufactured from a single material such as copper or a copper alloy.
• Boat Tail – a tapered rear section that may improve aerodynamic performance.
• Flat Base – a flat bullet base, often resulting in a shorter overall bullet length.

Choosing the right bullet weight

Bullet weight is measured in grain. Within the 6.5 mm calibre there are lightweight bullets for higher velocities as well as long, heavy bullets intended for precision shooting at extended distances.

Lighter bullets are often selected where higher muzzle velocity is preferred. Heavier bullets generally offer improved velocity retention and higher ballistic coefficients, although they often require faster barrel twist rates and sufficient cartridge length.

Bullets of the same weight can also differ considerably in construction. For example, a long monolithic bullet may occupy more case capacity than a traditional lead-core bullet of identical weight. When selecting a bullet, consider both weight and overall length.

Barrel twist and stabilisation

The barrel twist rate determines how quickly a bullet rotates while travelling through the barrel. Long and heavy 6.5 mm bullets generally require faster twist rates than shorter and lighter designs.

When loading long match bullets, it is important to confirm that the barrel provides adequate stabilisation. Besides weight, bullet length, profile, material and muzzle velocity all influence stability.

Always consult the recommendations provided by the rifle and bullet manufacturers, and use current load data developed specifically for the chosen combination.

Differences between 6.5 mm cartridges

Although cartridges such as the 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Remington, 6.5×55 Swedish, 6.5 Grendel and 6.5 PRC all use the same .264-inch bullet diameter, they differ significantly in case design, capacity and maximum cartridge length.

Load data is therefore never interchangeable between different cartridges. Even when using the same bullet, powder type, powder charge, primer selection and seating depth must always match the exact cartridge.

Cartridge length and seating depth

Longer 6.5 mm bullets can influence cartridge overall length and available case capacity. Maximum usable length depends on the magazine, chamber dimensions and throat geometry.

Changing seating depth also changes the available internal case volume. Always follow published load data and avoid altering seating depth without verified load development.

What should you consider?

• Confirm that the bullet has a diameter of .264 inch.
• Use only load data developed for the exact cartridge and bullet.
• Match bullet weight and length to the barrel twist rate.
• Check maximum cartridge overall length and available magazine space.
• Consider bullet profile and overall length during load development.
• Never interchange load data between different 6.5 mm cartridges.
• Do not substitute another bullet without verifying the published data, even if the weight is identical.
• Always begin with the recommended starting load from a reliable source.
• Inspect every completed cartridge carefully before use.

A category designed to stay current

This category includes 6.5 mm bullets in a variety of weights, profiles and constructions. The available range may change over time, so this page focuses on the characteristics and applications of .264-inch bullets rather than specific products or models.

Please refer to the individual product pages for exact specifications, including bullet weight, construction, diameter and packaging.

Related reloading components

SEM Jacht & Schietsport also supplies cartridge cases, primers, smokeless powder and many other components for reloading 6.5 mm rifle cartridges. You will also find die sets, shell holders, reloading presses, powder scales and tools for case preparation and cartridge measurement.

Legal information

In the Netherlands, bullets are subject to the same legal requirements as cartridge cases. A valid Dutch firearms licence or Dutch hunting licence listing a firearm in a suitable calibre is required for purchase.

These products are sold only to customers who meet the applicable legal requirements. Customers may be asked to provide the required documentation together with valid identification before an order is completed.

Why SEM Jacht & Schietsport?

SEM Jacht & Schietsport offers 6.5 mm bullets for cartridges including the 6.5 Creedmoor, .260 Remington, 6.5×55 Swedish, 6.5 PRC, 6.5 Grendel and many other calibres that use .264-inch bullets.

By selecting the correct bullet diameter, weight, construction, barrel twist compatibility and cartridge length, you can choose a bullet that suits your reloading project. If you have questions about the available options, our team is happy to help online or in our shop in Bornerbroek.