Click here to download the Sierra Bullets 6.5 Grendel Load Data PDF >> Sierra Bullets released load data for 6.5 Grendel cartridges, a popular cartridge which works well in both bolt guns and AR15 gas guns. Sierra Bullets published comprehensive 6.5 Grendel loads, covering 19 powders as well as eight (8) different bullets ranging from 85 to 130 grain. NOTE: Sierra’s tests on 6.5 Grendel used Hornady brass (see below), not the stronger Lapua brass. Hand-loaders who use Lapua 6.5 Grendel Brass may need to adjust the loads. Also, Winchester WSR primers have been used. CCI or Federal primers are likely to be preferred by most precision hand-loaders. Sierra Bullets Tested for 6.5 Grendel Load Data 85gr HP (#1700)100gr HP (#1710)
107gr HPBT (#1715) 120gr Spitzer (#1720)
120gr HPBT (#1725)
123gr HPBT (#1727) 130gr HPBT (#1728)
Sierra tested 19 propellants in total to develop its 6.5 Grendel load information. Modern powders like XMR 2230 and Power Pro Varmint offered the best velocity for the 85gr-100gr varmint ammunition in the 24″ test barrel. Sierra tested several powders for the heavier match bullets weighing 120gr to130gr. Power Pro Varmint, and TAC had the highest velocities. If you want the best accuracy, you should consider powders with a slower burn rate such as IMR XBR or Varget. However, you will sacrifice some speed. Sierra’s latest 6.5 Grendel loads data is a great addition to the 6.5 Grendel information base. Thank you Sierra! Sierra’s 6.5 Grendel load data charts for Sierra’s 130gr HPBT and 130grTMK are available here. There are five more tables for lighter Sierra bullets. History of the Grendel Cartridge 6.5
The 6.5 Grendel was originally a 6mm PPC that had been necked up into 6.5 mm. After Alexander Arms relinquished its “6.5 Grendel” Trademark the 6.5 Grendel became an official SAAMI Cartridge. It is popular among hunters and target shooters because it is efficient, accurate, and has a modest recoil. The 6.5 Grendel is a lightweight hunting rifle that is good for small and medium game. It comes in the Howa Mini Action Rifle. The 6.5 Grendel cartridge is one of the most precise cartridges for modern AR-15 platform guns. CLICK HERE for 6.5 Grendel Cartridge History (Wikipedia entry).
