6.5 Creedmoor vs. 6.7 Arc

Attribute	6.5 Creedmoor	6.7 Arc
Caliber	6.5 mm	6.7 mm
Ballistic Coefficient	High	High
Velocity	High	High
Energy	Medium	High
Recoil	Low	Low

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a rifle cartridge for long-range shooting, two popular options that often come up are the 6.5 Creedmoor and the 6.8 Arc. Both cartridges have their own set of attributes that make them appealing to shooters, but they also have differences that may make one more suitable for certain situations than the other. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the 6.5 Creedmoor and the 6.8 Arc to help you make an informed decision on which one to choose for your shooting needs.

Ballistics

One of the key factors to consider when comparing rifle cartridges is their ballistics. The 6.5 Creedmoor is known for its excellent long-range performance, with a high ballistic coefficient that allows it to maintain velocity and energy over long distances. It also has a relatively flat trajectory, making it easier to hit targets at extended ranges. On the other hand, the 6.8 Arc is designed for shorter ranges, with a heavier bullet that delivers more energy on impact. While it may not have the same long-range capabilities as the 6.5 Creedmoor, the 6.8 Arc excels in close to medium-range shooting scenarios.

Recoil

Another important factor to consider when choosing a rifle cartridge is recoil. The 6.5 Creedmoor is known for its mild recoil, making it a popular choice for shooters who prefer a more comfortable shooting experience. The 6.8 Arc, on the other hand, has slightly more recoil due to its heavier bullet and higher muzzle energy. While the difference in recoil between the two cartridges may not be significant for experienced shooters, it could be a deciding factor for those who are sensitive to recoil or are new to shooting.

Ammunition Availability

When it comes to ammunition availability, the 6.5 Creedmoor has a clear advantage over the 6.8 Arc. The 6.5 Creedmoor has been around for longer and has gained widespread popularity among shooters, leading to a wide selection of ammunition options from various manufacturers. This makes it easier to find 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition in stores and online, as well as components for handloading. On the other hand, the 6.8 Arc is a newer cartridge and may have limited availability in terms of ammunition choices, especially in comparison to the more established 6.5 Creedmoor.

Terminal Performance

When it comes to terminal performance, the 6.8 Arc has the edge over the 6.5 Creedmoor. The heavier bullet of the 6.8 Arc delivers more energy on impact, making it more effective for hunting and self-defense applications. The 6.5 Creedmoor, while still capable of delivering lethal shots, may not have the same stopping power as the 6.8 Arc due to its lighter bullet. Shooters who prioritize terminal performance may find the 6.8 Arc to be a better choice for their needs.

Cost

Cost is another factor to consider when choosing between the 6.5 Creedmoor and the 6.8 Arc. The 6.5 Creedmoor is generally more affordable than the 6.8 Arc, both in terms of ammunition and rifles chambered for the cartridge. This makes the 6.5 Creedmoor a more budget-friendly option for shooters who want to save money on their shooting hobby. On the other hand, the 6.8 Arc may be more expensive to shoot due to the higher cost of ammunition and rifles, which could be a consideration for shooters on a tight budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the 6.5 Creedmoor and the 6.8 Arc have their own set of attributes that make them appealing to shooters. The 6.5 Creedmoor excels in long-range shooting scenarios with its excellent ballistics and mild recoil, while the 6.8 Arc is better suited for close to medium-range shooting with its heavier bullet and superior terminal performance. When choosing between the two cartridges, it's important to consider factors such as ballistics, recoil, ammunition availability, terminal performance, and cost to determine which one best fits your shooting needs. Ultimately, the decision between the 6.5 Creedmoor and the 6.8 Arc will depend on your preferences and intended shooting applications.