I'm a big fan of the 6.5 cal. I owned 2 6.5X55 Swed rifles - a Sako & a Winchester Mod70. I now own 2 Mannlicher-Schouenauers in 6.5X54MS. I have taken a few red & fallow deer with them and have always been pleased with 1 shot kills.

I personally believe that the 140gr should be the minimum in a 6.5 to take advantage of the faster twist. You should get 2800 fps with a 160gr Hornady RN in the 264 Win Mag. If you went to a Spire point 160gr or a Barnes 150gr TSX, you are fine out to 400 yds for elk.

Good luck guys.