General

The 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 Precision Rifle Cartridge (PRC) are two popular choices among long-range shooters and hunters.  While they share similarities, there are key differences that set them apart.  Understanding these differences can help you choose the right ammo for your shooting needs.  The 6.5 PRC is a larger, faster, and newer cartridge than the 6.5 Creedmoor.

Trajectory

Trajectory is crucial for long-range accuracy.  The 6.5 PRC has a flatter trajectory compared to the 6.5 Creedmoor, making it more suitable for extremely long distances.

6.5 Creedmoor

Was developed in 2007 by Hornady, it quickly became the favorite for long-range shooting.

• Case Length:  1.92 inches
• Overall Length:  2.825 inches
• Bullet Diameter:  0.264 inches
• Maximum Pressure:  62,000 psi
• Recoil:  Approximately 17 ft-lbs. of recoil
• Trajectory:  Drops 48.9 inches at 500 yards when zeroed at 200 yards.

6.5 PRC

Introduced in 2018, the PRC is a newer cartridge designed for even greater performance.

• Case Length:  2.03 inches
• Overall Length:  2.955 inches
• Bullet Diameter:  0.264 inches
• Maximum Pressure:  65,000 psi
• Velocity:  Has a higher velocity than the 6.5 Creedmoor.  A 143 grain ELD-X bullet fired from a 6.5 PRC can reach just over 2,950 fps.
• Recoil:  Approximately 21.6 ft-lbs. of recoil
• Trajectory:  Drops 34.6 inches at 500 yards when zeroed at 200 yards.

Accuracy

Both cartridges are highly accurate, capable of sub-MOA groups.  However, the 6.5 PRC tends to edge out the 6.5 Creedmoor due to its flatter trajectory and higher ballistic coefficient.

Ballistic Coefficient

Or BC measures how well a bullet overcomes air resistance.  Higher BC means better performance in the wind.

• 6.5 Creedmoor:  Average BC around 0.585
• 6.5 PRC:  Average BC around 0.625

Hunting

For hunting, the 6.5 PRC offers better performance for larger game at longer distances due to its higher energy and flatter trajectory, suitable for:

• Mule deer and elk at extended ranges
• Ethical shots up to 800 yards

The 6.5 Creedmoor is still an excellent choice for hunting but is more suited for medium-sized game at closer ranges (under 500 yards).

Target Shooting

Both are excellent for target shooting, but the 6.5 Creedmoor is often preferred due to its lower recoil and cost-effectiveness.  Ideal for:

• Long range target shooting
• Competitive Shooting

Ammo Cost and Availability

• 6.5 Creedmoor:  Widely available and generally more affordable
• 6.5 PRC:  Less common and often more expensive

Rifle Availability

Both cartridges are available in a variety of rifles, but the 6.5 Creedmoor has a broader selection due to its longer presence in the market.

Summary

Choosing between the 6.5 Creedmoor and the 6.5 PRC depends on your specific needs.  The 6.5 Creedmoor is an excellent all-around cartridge for long-range shooting and hunting medium-sized game.  The 6.5 PRC, with its superior ballistic performance, is better suited for long-range hunting and extreme precision shooting.

Be Safe Out There