6.5 x 55 *improved

[rardoin]

I am going to build a 6.5 x 55 improved for F-open. I have been trying to gather as much information as I can to make an informed decision on which version of reamer to order. I have seen a little information on the 6.5 x 55
GWI and the BJ-AI. I invite all opinions on which version to go with.

And no comments such as ....why not go with a 6.5-.284 or such. There are sentimental reasons behind my decision to go the x55 route.

 

[ShootDots]

I don't have experience with that cartridge specifically. However, I know of the cartridge due to a shooting friend of mine who uses it extensively. I would not try and sway your opinion away from that excellent cartridge whatsoever. It R-E-A-L-L-Y sits at or near the pinnacle of 6.5 cartridges, especially due to excellent brass. You will not be disappointed in the least! Go for it and don't look back!

 

[double g]

I have shot both and prefer the AI.
DG

 

[mac86951]

Agreed. F-open, are you planning a 142 SMK, berger, or custom bullet? Typically most performance from case volume puts boat tail at neck shoulder junction. I would think a reamer to accommodate that setup would be what to use. I'm sure Dave kiff at PTG would have some insight.

-Mac

 

[1shot]

i have been shooting the GWI since it's birth. A very forgiving cartridge with wide accuracy nodes and god bbl. life.
Lloyd

 

[rardoin]

I will most likely will be shooting Bob C. 141.5 VLD's. My Creedmoor is VERY happy with them.

Lloyd, who sells reamers ground to the GW improved specifications? If I understand correctly Greg Walley was with Kelby's when he designed the reamer.

 

[JRS]

If you are interested, I have a JGS BJAI reamer used one time. No turn neck with free bore set up for the 142 grain bullets. I also have a unfired Bartlein barrel chambered with this reamer, 1-8 twist, threaded for the Panda action (possibly others) with custom removable WTC muzzle brake in the MTU contour. Also a WTC full size die with 2 sets of inserts, and RWS brass.

 

[1shot]

I will most likely will be shooting Bob C. 141.5 VLD's. My Creedmoor is VERY happy with them.

Lloyd, who sells reamers ground to the GW improved specifications? If I understand correctly Greg Walley was with Kelby's when he designed the reamer.

I have Greg at Kelbly's do all my work. He has a turn and no turn reamer, but I don't know who made it. I shoot JLK140gr. bullets and that combination has be phenomenal in 3 different barrels.

Greg also has made my F/L sizer die and reamed my seater die. A true turn-key operation. Stay away from W-W brass as it won't last, but Lapua has the correct rim dimension of .379 which requires a different shell holder.

Lloyd

 

[minnesotamulisha]

I had planned on building one at one time, but that project went south as I picked up a barreled action that peaked my interest. I found a lot of information on the cartridge over on the hide. Here's the link.

http://www.scout.com/military/snipe...13469414-the-modern-6-5x55-swede-users-thread

 

[JRS]

What is the difference in dimensions of the GWI as compared to the AI and BJAI?

The BJAI has a shoulder diameter of .465, and the AI at .455. The GWI?

 

[TonyR]

The recent Reade Range Remington Regional F-Open winner was shooting a 6.5X55 GWI. He has been getting about 2000 accurate rounds out of a barrel. The 6.5X55 improved cases are better than the 6.5X284 because most people shoot both at the same node but the barrel life is much better with the 6.5X55.

 

[rardoin]

If you are interested, I have a JGS BJAI reamer used one time. No turn neck with free bore set up for the 142 grain bullets. I also have a unfired Bartlein barrel chambered with this reamer, 1-8 twist, threaded for the Panda action (possibly others) with custom removable WTC muzzle brake in the MTU contour. Also a WTC full size die with 2 sets of inserts, and RWS brass.

I have a BRM-XD incoming...I don't think the tenon dia. are a match but I may be interested if it will mate up. What length and contour on the barrel?

 

[rardoin]

What is the difference in dimensions of the GWI as compared to the AI and BJAI?

The BJAI has a shoulder diameter of .465, and the AI at .455. The GWI?

I have been researching that question also but I cannot find a reamer print for the GWI.

I will call Kelby's when I get the chance.

 

[JRS]

I have a BRM-XD incoming...I don't think the tenon dia. are a match but I may be interested if it will mate up. What length and contour on the barrel?

The barrel is the MTU contour, and is finished at 30" from the bolt face. This was going to be used in F-Class.

 

[codyki]

The GWI has a 30 degree shoulder and dimensions .460 at b/s junction. I'm working thru print with Manson as we speak with very slight changes to run in a short action. Greg at kelbys is man behind this cartridge

 

[JRS]

The GWI has a 30 degree shoulder and dimensions .460 at b/s junction. I'm working thru print with Manson as we speak with very slight changes to run in a short action. Greg at kelbys is man behind this cartridge

Thank you. Evidently, it falls between the BJ & AI version, but with a 30 degree shoulder.

 

[rardoin]

The GWI has a 30 degree shoulder and dimensions .460 at b/s junction. I'm working thru print with Manson as we speak with very slight changes to run in a short action. Greg at kelbys is man behind this cartridge

Thanks Cody

 

[RW]

Thanks Cody

I have a 6.5x55 imp. 40 degree that I talked to Dave Kiff at PT&G and he said he had a reamer that worked very well and I have the print and could look it up if you like I am just getting ready to do some more testing when the wind dies down it seems like it has blown here for ever.RW

 

[BOB LEE SWAGGER]

I have a 6.5x55 imp. 40 degree that I talked to Dave Kiff at PT&G and he said he had a reamer that worked very well and I have the print and could look it up if you like I am just getting ready to do some more testing when the wind dies down it seems like it has blown here for ever.RW

PLEASE!

 

[RW]

PLEASE!

I was just going to offer to loan the reamer to the guy if he looked at the print and thought it might work. I think it is basically an Ackley version that is throated for 140 grain bullets!! I know PT@G has problems but I'm sure Dave talks to way more people about what will work than most folks here. rardoin probably wouldn't want it any way. Your welcome, RW