They already make an 7-08. I mean what is the difference in a silly half millimeter?bnewberry said:The 6.5 x 55 is probably my favorite round. I have one in the Mark II (swing safety on the bolt). Mine also likes 140 grain bullets but also shoots the Barnes X bullets well including the 120 grain.
The 6.5 bullets, especially the 140 grain ones perform beyond expectations for medium to medium large game. They use it for moose in Sweden I have read.
The Barnes X bullets are monolithic bronze or copper and have a good reputation. They tend to be a bit longer for weight which is why I think they work well in my Ruger.
Some don't like the 6.5x 55 because it is generally chambered in a long action and the argument is that if you are using a long action you can get more performance from a cartridge that uses all of the strength and length of the action.
Sometimes I think about having my tang safety International (full stock) in .308 converted to 6.5x55 (short action magazine would hold the 120 grain x bullet loads) as this is my favorite Ruger rifle and I think it would be a great 6.5. Of course the easier way to get there would be 6.5x.308 which would be as good, just not as elegant.