6.5 PRC
Also called: 6.5 Precision Rifle Cartridge, 6.5 Pee-Arr-Cee
A short-action magnum with the same bullet width as the 6.5 Creedmoor but more speed, built for longer shots on deer, pronghorn, and sometimes elk.
- Type
- Magnum Rifle
- Bullet diameter
- .264 in
- Case length
- 2.03 in
- Overall length
- 2.955 in
- Typical bullet weights
- 130 to 147 grains
- Typical muzzle velocity
- About 2,850 to 3,050 fps
- Recoil
- Moderate recoil
- Quarry
- Deer, hogs & pronghorn, Elk & moose
- Typical range
- Deer and pronghorn to about 500 yards with practice; elk at moderate distance
- Availability
- Common and growing
What it is good for
- Deer, pronghorn, and sheep at longer distances.
- Elk with premium bullets and close enough shots.
- Hunters who want a flat path in a short-action rifle.
Where it falls short
- It costs more than a 6.5 Creedmoor and kicks harder.
- Many hunters consider a 6.5 bullet light for elk and moose, so bullet choice and shot placement matter.
- It is newer, so ammunition choices are fewer than for older magnums.
Easily confused with
- 6.5 Creedmoor: the smaller, lower-recoil cousin with the same bullet width; the two are not interchangeable.
Field notes
The 6.5 PRC gives the 6.5 bullet a faster start in a short-action magnum case. It was built for longer distances, though real hunting range depends on skill, not cartridge speed.
Related guides
Numbers are typical factory-load figures, not guarantees. Use only ammunition that matches the cartridge stamped on your firearm and is made by a reputable manufacturer, and follow the manual. Legal game cartridges, minimum calibers, and non-toxic shot rules differ by state and area. Check your state's current regulations; our state resources directory links to each state's official rules. Not sure which rifle to buy? Try our hunting rifle wizard.