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6.5 PRC My New Hunting Round

Writer's picture: AussieJohn AussieJohn

Why I Chose the 6.5 PRC and the Norma BondStrike 143-Grain Long-Range Hunting Round

When it came time to select a rifle and cartridge for long-range hunting, the 6.5 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) stood out as my round of choice. Here’s why this exceptional cartridge, combined with the Norma BondStrike 143-grain hunting round, has become my go-to for big game hunting.

The 6.5 PRC: A Balanced Performer

The 6.5 PRC has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best long-range hunting and precision shooting cartridges on the market. It builds on the success of the 6.5 Creedmoor but delivers higher velocity, better downrange energy, and flatter trajectories.

Key Advantages of the 6.5 PRC My new hunting round is...

  1. Increased Velocity: The 6.5 PRC offers faster muzzle velocities compared to the 6.5 Creedmoor, typically exceeding 2,900 fps with factory loads. This translates to better long-range performance and retained energy.

  2. Flatter Trajectory: With its higher velocity, the 6.5 PRC has less bullet drop over extended distances, making it ideal for hunting in open terrain.

  3. Higher Ballistic Coefficient (BC): Paired with sleek, heavy-for-caliber bullets, the 6.5 PRC excels in maintaining speed and resisting wind drift, critical for precision at extended ranges.

  4. Versatility: It’s well-suited for medium to large game, including deer, antelope, and elk, making it a perfect all-around hunting cartridge.

The Norma BondStrike 143-Grain: A Game-Changer for my Long-Range Hunting

While the 6.5 PRC is impressive on its own, the choice of ammunition is just as critical. After extensive research and field testing, I settled on the Norma BondStrike 143-grain round for its outstanding performance in real-world hunting scenarios.

Why the Norma BondStrike?

  1. High Ballistic Coefficient (BC): The BondStrike bullet has a BC of 0.615, making it one of the best in its class. This ensures minimal drag and maximum energy retention downrange.

  2. Terminal Performance: Designed for hunting, the BondStrike combines controlled expansion with deep penetration. It delivers devastating energy transfer on impact, ensuring clean, ethical kills.

  3. Precision Accuracy: Norma’s reputation for consistent, high-quality ammunition is evident with the BondStrike. The round consistently groups tight, even at extended distances.

  4. Extended Range Capability: With the combination of the 6.5 PRC’s flat trajectory and the BondStrike’s design, this setup excels at ranges beyond 500 yards.

Real-World Applications

On recent hunts, this pairing has proven itself in challenging conditions. Whether shooting across windy plains or in mountainous terrain, the 6.5 PRC and Norma BondStrike combination has delivered the accuracy and terminal performance needed to take down game cleanly at long range.

Key Highlights from the Field:

  • Deer Hunting: The Norma BondStrike’s expansion and penetration ensured quick and ethical harvests, even on larger bucks.

  • Long-Range Shots: The flat trajectory made estimating holdover easier, while the high BC minimized the effect of wind drift.

  • Reliability: Not once did I encounter inconsistencies in performance, giving me confidence with every shot.

Conclusion

The 6.5 PRC paired with the Norma BondStrike 143-grain round has been a game-changer for my hunting experience. It combines the power, precision, and reliability needed for long-range hunting in diverse environments. If you’re looking for a cartridge and load to elevate your hunting game, this duo is worth serious consideration.


My new rifle in 6.5 PRC turns ups in the next few days...


Browning X-Bolt Pro McMillan Long Range 6.5PRC 26" 4 Round Sonoran Carbon Ambush Rifle - 3+1 Rounds, 26" Barrel, in Gray Cerakote.


My new X-Bolt stands apart from standard rifles that I looked, with a McMillan Game Scout carbon fiber stock, creating a robust platform ideal for long-range shooting.


The lightweight carbon fiber Game Scout stock features a medium-width forend and a straight comb buttstock, ensuring both stability and comfort.


The rifle’s Sonoran Carbon Ambush camouflage pattern improves concealment in diverse environments.


Additional features elevate this rifle's performance, including a tough Cerakote Carbon Gray finish and the highly efficient Recoil Hawg muzzle brake, which reduces felt recoil by up to 77%, making shooting more comfortable. A thread protector adds flexibility, rounding out a rifle designed for hunters who demand reliability, precision, and adaptability.


It will have a 5x25 Mark 5 Leupold Scope atop



X-Bolt Pro McMillan Long Range
X-Bolt Pro McMillan Long Range

Norma Bondstrike Extreme 6,5 PRC 143gr
Norma Bondstrike Extreme 6,5 PRC 143gr
Norma Bondstrike Extreme 6,5 PRC 143gr
Norma Bondstrike Extreme 6,5 PRC 143gr


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