Robie
In reply to:
-------------------------------------------------------------Robie-------------------

I am looking for a light rifle for use on open-plains / mountains after deer sized game, and reindeer. The 6.5x55 as well as .270 are both classic, and I prefer 150-160 grs bullet weight.
Is the 6.5x55 to light for African game (Thompson gazelle etc)??

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Both are excellent- while I favour the 6.5, it is a handloading proposition unless you've a stock of Norma ammo.
: My new barreled action (1896 m1912) shortened to 22" bl. gets 2,966fps with 129gr. Hornady Interlocks and 2,890fps with 140's, both using Reloader#19. For an exceptional 6.5mm bullet that will go lengthwise through a B.C. Bull Moose, the 120gr. "XLC"FB is hard to beat - and it will break 3,100fps+ if you want it to. (24" bl. Barnes Manual) The 140gr. "XLC" are listed to 2,925fps for even deeper penetration and a BC of .522.- Amazing for less than 50gr. of powder.
: There isn't any "game" difference between that and what the .270 will do, except the .270 requires a bunch more powder. It's only advantage is in good factory ammo availability.