Thread: 6.5x55

Greetings Again Widerange,
Our posts crossed. The M96 rifles were a pre 98 Mauser type action with strength that has been described from just as strong as the 98 to much weaker than the 98. US ammunition for the 6.5 x 55 is loaded much lower than the Norma stuff partly due to the M96 but perhaps more due the the 6.5 being chambered in the much weaker Krag action. I also have a M38 6.5 which has, in the past fired some pretty stout loads but no more. My M38 gives a little less velocity than the T3 due to its longer throat in spite of a longer barrel. I wouldn't go past 45 grains of AR2209 behind the 130 grain projectile in my M38 (much less with the Nosler projectile) which should produce between 2,700 and 2,750 fps in your rifle depending on how short the barrel may have been cut.
Also, perhaps contrary to what others may say, I don't think you can tell much about pressure from examining the fired case. Sure you can tell that one is hotter than another, sometimes, but not much else. A chronograph is a better bet.
One last thing. My full length resizing die produces cases with excess head space for either rifle if turned down all the way to the shell holder so careful adjustment is needed.
Regards Grandpamac.