Is 6.5x47 Lapua Still a Good Round? A Comprehensive Look at its Strengths and Weaknesses
The 6.5x47 Lapua remains a popular choice among long-range shooters, but is it still a good round in today's market? The answer, like many things in the shooting world, is nuanced. While it's not the newest cartridge on the block, its performance and characteristics continue to make it a compelling option for precision shooting. Let's delve into the details.
Strengths of the 6.5x47 Lapua
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Exceptional Accuracy: The 6.5x47 Lapua is renowned for its inherent accuracy. Its consistent case dimensions and efficient cartridge design contribute to tighter groups at longer ranges than many competitors. This makes it a favorite among competitive shooters and precision rifle enthusiasts. Many experienced shooters report sub-MOA accuracy with quality ammunition and rifles.
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Long-Range Capabilities: This cartridge excels at long-range shooting. Its aerodynamically efficient projectiles, coupled with its relatively flat trajectory, allow for accurate shots at distances exceeding 1000 yards (or meters, depending on your location). This performance is further enhanced with the use of high-quality match-grade ammunition.
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Mild Recoil: Compared to other cartridges in similar performance categories, the 6.5x47 Lapua exhibits manageable recoil. This allows for quicker follow-up shots and reduces shooter fatigue, particularly during extended training or competitions. This milder recoil also makes it a more comfortable option for less experienced shooters.
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Case Life: Lapua brass is known for its robust construction, offering a longer lifespan compared to some other cartridge cases. This translates to significant cost savings over the long term, particularly for those who reload their own ammunition.
Weaknesses of the 6.5x47 Lapua
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Cost: 6.5x47 Lapua ammunition is generally more expensive than some more common calibers like .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor. This is primarily due to the less widespread adoption and the specialized nature of the cartridge.
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Limited Commercial Availability: While readily available from reputable ammunition manufacturers, the range of commercially available factory loads may be more limited compared to the more popular calibers. This can occasionally affect finding specific types of ammunition with preferred bullet weights or ballistic coefficients.
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Recoil Impulse: While the recoil is manageable, it does have a sharp recoil impulse that some shooters might find less pleasant than a softer recoiling round like the 6.5 Creedmoor. This is largely down to the cartridge's higher pressure.
6.5x47 Lapua vs. the Competition: 6.5 Creedmoor
Often, the 6.5x47 Lapua is compared to the 6.5 Creedmoor. While both are excellent 6.5mm cartridges, they have key differences: The 6.5 Creedmoor is more widely available and less expensive, while the 6.5x47 Lapua generally provides superior accuracy and long-range performance, particularly at extreme distances. The choice depends heavily on the shooter's priorities and budget.
Conclusion: Is it Still a Good Round?
Yes, the 6.5x47 Lapua remains a very good round, especially for long-range precision shooting and competitive disciplines. Its accuracy, long-range capabilities, and manageable recoil are significant advantages. However, shooters should consider the higher cost and potentially more limited commercial availability compared to other calibers. Ultimately, whether it's the best round for you depends on your individual needs, budget, and shooting goals. Weigh the strengths and weaknesses carefully to determine if the 6.5x47 Lapua is the right choice for your specific application.
