Thanks Homer.

The basic .473" rim, .469" or .470" base diameter case(however it happens to be listed by whomever is writing the specs) design easily handles 64,000psi to 65,000psi - even though the SAAMI and CIP pressures are below that.

Small rifle primer pockets came out for match shooting in the .308 basic case for shortening or necking forthe BR rounds, some time ago. It is only logical they would use them in the 6.5x47.

I made up some of my .22BR brass with small rifle pockets and others with standard pockets. It was a match rifle, not a BR rifle. I could not shoot the difference, but then, I was happy with 3/8" for 10 shot, 100 meter groups with metalic sights. As to better handling pressure - I don't think so as the primer is the weak link and large rifle primers have heavier cups. Loads that gave small rifle primer problems in my BR, were duplicated for speed with large primers without any signs of excessive pressure.

It could be they are used mainly for more even pressure curves or consistancy. This is usually a big deal in smaller capacity rounds.

I do know that the small pocket .243's blown out and necked to 22's (Clark, etc), have ignition problems and big SD's in cool weather.

That slightly smaller 6.5 is probably a wonderful round - don't get me wrong - I'd just prefer a bit more speed is all. A 6.5x57Ack. IMP will duplicate the 6.5x.284 and would be more inline with my choice for a 1,000 yard rifle, whereas the 6.5x47 would probably win me out for a 600yard postition rifle.