6.8 Western Vs 6.5 Prc Ballistics Chart
Introduction
When it comes to long-range shooting, choosing the right cartridge is crucial. Two of the most popular choices for long-range hunting and shooting are the 6.8 Western and the 6.5 PRC. In this article, we will compare the ballistics of these two cartridges to help you make an informed decision about which one to choose for your next hunt or shooting competition.
What is Ballistics?
Before we dive into the comparison, let's define what we mean by "ballistics." Ballistics is the science of projectiles and their behavior in flight. It includes the study of the trajectory, velocity, and energy of a bullet as it travels through the air. Understanding ballistics is essential for long-range shooting because it allows you to predict the bullet's path and make accurate shots.
6.8 Western
The 6.8 Western is a relatively new cartridge that was introduced in 2020 by Winchester. It is designed for long-range hunting and shooting and is based on the .270 Winchester Short Magnum case. The 6.8 Western has a bullet diameter of .277 inches and a case length of 2.030 inches. It can be used in a variety of rifles, including the Winchester XPR, Browning X-Bolt, and Kimber 84M.
The 6.8 Western has a maximum effective range of around 1,000 yards and is capable of delivering excellent accuracy and energy at long distances. It has a flat trajectory and a high ballistic coefficient, which means it can maintain its velocity and energy better than many other cartridges. The 6.8 Western is an excellent choice for hunters who need a cartridge that can take down big game at long range.
6.5 PRC
The 6.5 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) is another popular choice for long-range shooting. It was introduced in 2017 by Hornady and is based on the .300 Ruger Compact Magnum case. The 6.5 PRC has a bullet diameter of .264 inches and a case length of 2.62 inches. It can be used in a variety of rifles, including the Ruger Precision Rifle, Browning X-Bolt Pro, and Christensen Arms Mesa Long Range.
The 6.5 PRC has a maximum effective range of around 1,500 yards and is known for its excellent accuracy and consistency. It has a relatively flat trajectory and a high ballistic coefficient, which means it can maintain its velocity and energy over long distances. The 6.5 PRC is an excellent choice for long-range target shooting and hunting.
Ballistics Comparison
Now let's compare the ballistics of these two cartridges. We will be using data from Hornady's ballistics calculator to compare the trajectory, velocity, and energy of the 6.8 Western and the 6.5 PRC.
Trajectory
The trajectory of a bullet is the path it takes through the air from the time it leaves the barrel until it hits the target. A flatter trajectory is generally better for long-range shooting because it allows you to aim directly at the target without having to adjust for bullet drop. According to Hornady's ballistics calculator, the 6.8 Western has a slightly flatter trajectory than the 6.5 PRC. At 500 yards, the 6.8 Western has a drop of 42.7 inches, while the 6.5 PRC has a drop of 46.2 inches.
Velocity
The velocity of a bullet is the speed at which it travels through the air. A higher velocity generally means a flatter trajectory and more energy at longer distances. According to Hornady's ballistics calculator, the 6.5 PRC has a higher velocity than the 6.8 Western. At the muzzle, the 6.5 PRC has a velocity of 2,940 feet per second, while the 6.8 Western has a velocity of 2,875 feet per second.
Energy
The energy of a bullet is the amount of force it exerts on the target when it hits. More energy generally means more stopping power and better penetration. According to Hornady's ballistics calculator, the 6.5 PRC has more energy than the 6.8 Western at all ranges. At 500 yards, the 6.5 PRC has an energy of 1,441 foot-pounds, while the 6.8 Western has an energy of 1,296 foot-pounds.
Conclusion
Both the 6.8 Western and the 6.5 PRC are excellent choices for long-range shooting and hunting. The 6.8 Western has a slightly flatter trajectory, while the 6.5 PRC has a higher velocity and more energy at all ranges. Ultimately, the choice between these two cartridges will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the type of shooting or hunting you will be doing, as well as the rifle you will be using, to make an informed decision.