6.5 Creedmoor vs 270 vs 25-06: The Results Might Surprise You

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

To learn more about popular hunting calibers like the .25-06 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor and .270 Winchester, visit: thebiggamehuntingblog.com/ebook

[@larrybassett5559]

All three are good, I'm sticking with my .270.

[@m118lr]

…same here. It’s been SO reliable and accurate over the years..

[@dr.froghopper6711]

Ditto!

[@georgesakellaropoulos8162]

All three are excellent cartridges, I'm a fudd, so I'm sticking with my '06 lol.

[@Meh-hr7gq]

The model T Ford was the best in its time also. There are many still around and they will still drive down the road and get you from point A to point B. It’s just not the best vehicle anymore. 🤷‍♂️

[@ericvantassell6809]

@@georgesakellaropoulos8162 If God hadn't wanted us to stay with the '06, he would have let the Kaiser win

[@Larry-tl6vw]

Good video, I’ll stick with my 25-06….always does the job for me after 50 years can’t see changing now….

[@mooktarkader]

I have a Brno. 270 , and I have shot kudu with a 150 gr, Barnes x one shot kill, and common Reedbuck on wheat fields up to 300 metres. I love my .270.

[@chiya2006]

You are one lucky one. Nothing compares to the beauty of Brno

[@dutch9357]

My dad gave me a 25-06 when I was 13. I’ve taken 3 mule deer, 1 elk, and countless jackrabbits with it. Had an old redfield 3x9 from the 70’s on it when he gave it to me, I’ve since upgraded it to a nice Leupold 4x12. Classic blued steel and walnut. My favorite rifle. I have a creedmoor for cheap target shooting, but the 25-06 will always be my favorite. Me buddy has a nice Browning 270. Shot a crow out of the air with it once. Very nice shooting rifle.

[@geraldsmith6024]

I have all 3. I always grab my 25-06 just love it.

[@cabinbills6743]

270 for me my hunting buddy shoots 25-06 and his son has a 6.5 creedmoor so imagine my delight when i came across this video .

[@timmoore6055]

I will bet there have been some interesting "campfire" discussions!

[@cabinbills6743]

Tim Moore lol you would be absolutely correct my friend . This year it will be 2 25-06 and the 270 . Seems the 6.5 just couldn’t garner much respect from the old guys . Go figure

[@titomish5914]

@@cabinbills6743 old guys are butthurt

[@leifhoklin2681]

I have to say, I was a little fired up at the end when you suggested that the 6.5 CM might be your pick on the larger game due to the higher SD. I compared Hornady’s 6.5 cm 143 eld-x load against Nosler’s .270 Win 150 grain Partition load and was surprised how close they compared to each other. While the .270 has almost 400lbs more energy at the muzzle, the 6.5 cm had over taken it at 400 yards, and is honestly very close from 100 yards on out. While I’d still prefer the .270 on elk sized game over the 6.5cm, I can understand the argument.

[@keithross4511]

Great comparative information on these three cartridges. I love my fathers Remington 721 in .270Win. It’s does a great job! Maybe just because dad gave it to me before he passed away, but of all my various rifles, it’s my “go to” rifle. I love the .25-06 also.

[@jorgevaz5150]

Best all-rounder ever made for hunting,o boy jack o conner was right iv hunted here in Africa with my .270 for 22years now its my favorite of my 4 rifles hands down 💥💥

[@adamdrouin2295]

@Paul Yes, yes it absolutely is

[@delbertlayman3693]

25. Flat out love it. Best deer gun I've ever owned

[@jwdundon]

I grew up on the 30-06, fell in love with the little 243. I use my 375 RUM for elk, but, last few years, sure been happy with my 270WSM. Flat shooting, accurate, and DROPS BUCKS. (Mine is sub MOA with 130 nosler partition) MAX loads with Imr4340.

[@nathanadrian7797]

I think you should have included the 120 gr for the 25-06, more of an apples to apples comparison, I was also surprised at your recoil numbers for the 270, everything I have seen before this puts a 150 gr 270 at 17 ish pounds and the 30-06 with a 180 gr at 19 or 20 pounds, my .338 win mag is only about 35 pounds recoil with a 250 gr., so seeing the 270 at 26 pounds seems a little high. Great comparison, well done.

[@mrmatt7210]

This has been one of the best videos I've watched on this subject and it deserves to be shared. To be clear, this video was fair, balanced and unbiased. With this being said, I will share a few of my own opinions. Inside of 400yrds there is very little differences in the trajectory of most all of the common cartridges based off the 30-06 or .308 cases. In addition, outside of those which hunt the great plains, most of us will never make a shot on game at such a distance which you may honestly see a benefit in one of these cartridges over another. To make a point, the majority of deer taken are at distances well under 200yrds with the greatest percentage being at less than 100yrds. At these distances all of these cartridges will perform equally well. Over my years, I've taken deer with most of the standard short and long action cartridges and oddly enough the 35Rem is my favorite. However, a couple years back I purchased a 6.5 creedmoor and have become very fond of it. No, it dont perform better than my .308 , .270 or -06. The honest fact is it's unlikely i could tell the difference between a deer shot with any of these cartridges. What i enjoy most about the 6.5 creedmoor is its ability to match the performance of these respected big game cartridges while having such a mild recoil and very little muzzle blast.

[@jackdundon2261]

I have blown holes through deer big enough to stick my arm through with the old 30-06... my life experiences have taught me, shot placement, bullet selection. And most of all hunters experiences, are all far more crittical than the cartridge. -- I also have killed elk with .243, AND 375 rum... small callibers are great, but you better know when and when not to take the shot.

[@patrickhanks8215]

With with a lot of videos put together very well this is got to be one of the best from where I can understand

[@davidsignor7931]

If you want to hit paper at long range no problem but if you want to take game the 6.5 crudmore does not have the energy to humanly kill game it is a target cartridge at long range period

[@henrybright8531]

My first hunting rifle was a .270 and still its my go to for deer. A relative that passed left me a 25-06 Ruger No1, it too excels as taking deer. Each deer I’ve shot with it drops in its tracks. It’s nice too because it’s good for smaller game/varmints with the 90gr loads. Both cartridges cover my needs. No moose hunting anywhere near me

[@kathyortiz8774]

Thank you for the comparison. I had considered both the 25-06 and 270 cartridges, and chose a Ruger M77 25-06 many years ago due to its flat trajectory, low recoil, and it can drop anything I would be hunting. I love it, and see no reason to change. It is my go-to gun along with my Mini-14. However, I also chose a M77 7mm Rem Mag, another flat-shooting cartridge, to give me a big advantage in hunting elk. I do not use it nearly as often. Joe

[@garypollard9770]

This is the best video on the comparison of these 3 popular cartridges!

[@noahhorinek]

Great video. Thank you for the unbiased representation of the cartridges. Also, with more and more companies releasing heavier projectiles for both .257 and .277, the 25-06 and 270 really pull away from the Creedmoor. Keep em coming!

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jayrobertson232]

That may be true, BUT the barrel rifling twist rate must be optimized for these new heavier bullets

[@TexanUSMC8089]

But they don't pull away from the 6.5PRC. The PRC has the same case capacity as the 25-06 and 270.

[@donaldardell5742]

@@TexanUSMC8089 Of course, we can start injecting everyone's favorite cartridges into the discussion and end up comparing whose dad could beat the other in a fight. In the proposed comparison, however, the 6.5 CM's real only meaningful advantage is that it'll fit in a short action. Additionally, at typical hunting ranges for 200-1200 pound big game (real big game, not medium game), the 6.5 CM has several disadvantages as making hits becomes far less important than what it does when it hits, such as on an elk, moose, or brown bear. That's where the .308"+ calibers (.338", .358", 9.3mm, and .375") really shine and outperform on truly big game, and why the .30-'06, .35 Whelen, and .338 Win Mag are so popular in Alaska.

[@donaldardell5742]

@TexanUSMC8089 Additionally, you may not know the 6.5 PRC's parent cartridge is from the Ruger and Hornady team-up that produced the .300 Ruger Compact Magnum (RCM) and the particularly excellent .338 RCM, themselves both short-action sub-variants of the Ruger/Hornady team up that introduced the innovative .375 Ruger. The RCM family, in which I will include the 6.5 PRC, is itself an improvement on the magnum-based and beltless Winchester Short Magnum (WSM) concept, whose design limitations were based on the low energy-per-volume powers of the time. As an attempt to wring a little extra case capacity to crutch those then-available powders, the WSMs suffered from hard chambering due to a design with very little case taper, and were unable to field a .338" variant. Winchester sort of punted with the 8mm/.325" version that, at best, wasn't terribly popular.

[@heinrichstoltz1356]

Been hunting over here in South Africa for more than 35 years, and the .270 was my first hunting rifle. My .270 has taken from duiker to cape eland on hunting trips and commercial culling operations. I also have a 6.5CM in my safe, and it is a joy to shoot and hunt with, I have not yet shot anything larger than black wildebeest with this rifle yet. Neither the .270 nor the 6.5CM has given me any reason to doubt their ability.

[@swampfox1776]

Dude. You told it like no one else has! You brought In the different bullet configuration, and why. Dam good job!!

[@michaelcarter5345]

Great video, very informative. Have both 6.5CM and 25-06, like them both for whitetail using 25-06 for longer open range hunting.

[@MercyMinister]

FWIW, I have both the .25 Oh 6 and the .270. Both are excellent. The .25 Oh 6 is more versatile, but both do an excellent job on bug game.

[@af7119]

Fantastic video. Appreciate the information and background! I've got so many calibers descended from 30-06 like 25-06, .243, and .270

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

[@HobbitHomes263]

The 6.5 swede m96 rifles were. Made with a 1 in 8.7 twist and can be loaded to run neck in neck with Creedmore. Those old Swedish Mausers were very well made. If you are on a tight budget its a well performing, low cost option

[@justinlloyd9342]

I’ve always wanted a 25-06 but I have a 270 and it’s hard to beat

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Nothing wrong with either one!

[@TexanUSMC8089]

Get both. lol

[@michaelindihar6700]

I love my 270 with Hornady’s 130 gr GMX bullet. Great penetration. I’ve taken large northern Minnesota whitetails. One quartering shot went through both shoulders and never fragmented. Very little damaged meat!

[@montaego]

agree...using 129lrx, at 3200fps it packs a flat trajectory high energy hit out well past 400M.

[@yz8096]

Well done! I own and hand load for 2 out of the 3. I don't have a .270 but got a 6.5-284 (ballistically similar). My personal favorite is the .25-06. Would love to have a custom one built some day with a faster twist to stabilize the 131 Black Jack. I burn alot of IMR 4831 and H4831, that's for sure!

[@Eric--zs6um]

With you on your 2506 comments. I've loaded all 3. Those 131s are a hot ticket. Definitely changes the numbers game a bit. Love my 2506s and .243.

[@kalmlykeabomb]

The blackjack is for nerds! Berger has a 133 and a 135 out now. I'm hoping it might pick up some momentum and get a 140.

[@irishbuckster]

Cant hardly find any of these 3 calibers in hunting loads stick with 308 win least you can find ammunition to hunt eith

[@timmoore6055]

@@irishbuckster I would assume you are not near a Cabela's; with the exception of the Covid period, they have always had a wide range of ammunition. Which is by no means meant to knock the 308.

[@artvanderlay7732]

@@irishbuckster if you can't find 270 ammo your not looking very hard..

[@ronaldroy3606]

Absolutely love my 270 and will continue to kill game with it until I can’t get out and hunt anymore…..Thank you…RR

[@lrac7751]

Great video! It gets really easy to overthink this stuff and always want the best tools in hand, but don’t forget the 6.5 swede has been a popular moose round in Europe for over 100 years. The 7mm mauser has taken untold number of eurasian boars and every single animal in Africa

[@gpearce11]

6.5 Swede is a phenomenal cartridge but it's difficult to recommend over 6.5 CM outside Europe because they're so similar in performance but there's way more options in rifles and ammo for 6.5 CM, especially in America.

[@barrymcavoy2157]

All three are good cartridges but I am sticking with my 30-06

[@jefferyboring4410]

It would be fun to stick with the 30-06 parent cart and I’d neck up and down I’ve always wanted to try .35 whelin that would be fun. Maby over kill in East TN but still neat to load

[@REDNECKROOTS]

​@@jefferyboring4410 35whalen is actually the pinicle of standard length. It actually shoots heavier 200 & 220 grain bullets faster then 3006 shoots 180gr. It's some voodoo shit going on there. I love that 35

[@johannesvanhoek9080]

Excellent video, you have a new subscriber, my choices of the three are the Winchester 270 and the 25-06 ! 👍

[@claytondennis8034]

I've always used a 30-06. I bought my first .270 last year based on ammo price, and ballistics for my hunting environment.

[@Jddvs]

I switched from my 30-06 to the 270 Rem many years ago and it has been my go to caliber. I decided to try the then new 6.5 Creedmoor have been pleasantly surprised by the accuracy and slightly less recoil. I have developed several handloads that have proven to be accurate. Although I like the 6.5 CR, my trusted .270 remains my go to rifle.

[@Jeff_Seely]

I am reading some of these comments and as with most round comparisons, people are very passionate about them. Shoot what you like and hunt with what you like. Use a properly constructed bullet and hunt ethically. All three will do their job if you do yours. I think that is the real point here and not to proclaim a top cartridge out of the three. Just pick a round and handload for consistency and you have yourself a good shooter, whatever you choose. 25-06, 6.5CM, 270, 308, 30-06, and all the rest! Use a 22 and shoot the hell out of it. Practice offhand shooting and shooting in many positions and you will gain accuracy and it will help you be accurate at a low cost and you'll hit the big game with precision when the time comes.

[@GeezerWheels]

Great vid, LOTS of data and balanced commentary. Excellent!

[@mcgovernoutdoors33]

I have deer hunted with a 270 all my life. It’s a very good cartridge that is flat shooting and has plenty of knock-down power. Love my savage axis II. Great gun and fantastic round!

[@TexanUSMC8089]

The most important thing is...this is America and you can own all of them. LOL

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Haha, indeed!

[@jonnyweaver1912]

Yeah buddy!!

[@petermouhtouris24]

Can own them all in Australia too

[@REDNECKROOTS]

​@@petermouhtouris24 yea but y'all got hoops to jump through.

[@dirtfarmer65]

Canadian can still own them all. Even if Princess Justin hates all guns.... 🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@elmbow]

In fairness to the 25-06 you should have used 120 grain bullets which have long been the standard for animals like pronghorn and deer. Otherwise a balanced comparison.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thanks for your post. I have each of the calibers you mentioned and appreciate the merits of each. I have the 6.5 Swede as well. If asked for a favorite I might lean toward the 270.

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Right on!

[@rickking6757]

Shoot what works best for you. For me it the 30-06. My second would be 35 Whelen

[@theorangevestarmy4255]

I love my 25/06, have taken Elk & whitetail at long ranges, I wish an ammunition manufacturer would develop some heavier bullets for this amazing caliber.

[@ravissary79]

There's a super-high-bc bullet by Blackjack out there that's 131 grain.

[@jonathanlarryjackson7294]

Check out the Berger 133 Hunter Elite, BC 618!! It does a Fantastic Job on Deer!!

[@OldSchoolParatrooper]

What do you estimate a maximum range for elk with your 25-06?

[@tatsuhirosatou5513]

@@jonathanlarryjackson7294 the 25-06 won't stabilize that without a custom 1-8 twist barrel

[@tatsuhirosatou5513]

@@ravissary79 the 25-06 won't stabilize that without a custom 1-8 twist barrel

[@troythompson1621]

Well put, too many people emphasize one characteristic and don't consider all of them comparatively . I know the 6.5 Creedmoor has more case capacity than the. 260, but just changing the barrel from a. 308 give me more versatility in the AR10 platform. I won't hunt past 500 yards, which is where the difference is noticeable anyway.

[@markoharoldoronearmedpoohb7816]

Hard to beat the 30-06 family of cartridges, my favorite is the 25-06, but! The 338-06 is a very close second!

[@TexanUSMC8089]

338-06 is a beast, but don't forget the 35 Whelan. One of my favorites is the 280 and 280 Ackley. 6.5-06 is a shooter too.

[@rkba4923]

Between the 06 and 08 family of cartridges, there's something for everyone already. jmho

[@ravissary79]

@@rkba4923 I wonder if a 25-creedmoor might not be a good idea. There's some new great long ogive 131 gr bullets in 257 now. Less brutal on barrels than 6mm CM or 243, but even better BC than many 6.5 bullets, but still enough mass to work on most game. Might be a nice sweet spot. And less overbore than 25-06, might be better in shorter barrels.

[@Buddha-of8fk]

Personally l'm an aged dude. The 30/06 family of cartridges has been a big part of my life. When l built my first Mauser the biggest problem was what to chamber it for. It was between a 25/06 and .280 Rem. I already had a .270 and 30/06. I did end up with the .280 but it took months to make that decision.

[@brokendad2222]

Wanted a 25-06 since Remington started production, finally got a pristine Ruger m77 a couple of years ago. In my opinion it is the most underestimated center-fire cartridge today. Wished there some research into bullet design, possibly newer materials.

[@leroysmith8226]

Ruger m77 tang safety in .270, has been a tack driver since 1978. Awesome caliber.

[@zachchampluvier1966]

I own the same one also own 25-06 savage 111

[@crittergetter1720]

I have a 25-06 Ruger M77 tang safety. I've taken Deer, Elk, & Bear with zero losses using Barnes. I've yet to see a factory rifle capable of superior accuracy to the 25-06 I have. I have taken many deer in the 500 yrd range with no issues. The largest bear taken was over 8sq and went mere steps when hit in the liver. High quality bullets solid copper are a must have combined with Reloader 19 make it capable for any North American game.

[@russellkeeling4387]

Just a few days ago I was elk hunting and spotted an elk worth taking but it was a long way aways. Probably a mile or more. I did not take the shot because I only had a .300 win. mag but if I'd of had a 6.5 Creedmoor I could most surly taken that elk. lol

[@patrickhanks8215]

With all the great videos out there this is going to be one of the best for my understanding point in research

[@fabulousoffroaddesigns5080]

Of these three I'd probably pick the 270 for it's power and availability. I've never owned one. As for the 257's my favorite is still the 250 Savage. I'd like to see a quarter bore comparison. 250 Savage vs 257 Roberts vs 25-06.

[@troythompson1621]

I haven't shot the Savage, but my Roberts and the 06 are excellent deer rifles. The 06 is just a little flatter and further shooting, and I use .257 +P. They are both incredibly accurate too.

[@sammylacks4937]

Thank.you for being kind and giving the Creedmoor everything it does and deserves. To the rest let me say this. My wife's a little plump. Ok my dog is stupid and ugly but he s mine and I don't expect him to win a bench comp or balance my check book . I love plump women and the 6.5 Creedmoor. If you don't then that's fine neither are " BEST " just what I prefer. Let's agree to respect each other's likes and be glad we have so much to chose from.

[@jaybailleaux630]

270 is the king here.

[@davidl8425]

No need for a .270 when there is a 25 06 around....

[@mowerman60]

Have a look at the ballistics of both out at 500m plus. We have taken Himalayan Bull Tahr,(here in NZ),out to 650m,the 25-06 with 110g Accubond is deadly efficient out there.

[@davidlantz4560]

Thank you for your time and videos.....them are all kinda good rifles....i love my old 30-06 but i don't shoot at game past 250 to 300 yards..i use it for big whitetail deer an big black bears...most of my shots are less then 100 yards really....

[@cottonkiller8081]

Love the comparisons keep it coming

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

More to come!

[@velie]

Yes, all cartridges are excellent. I love my 6.5 Creedmore, and it has no problem dropping elk, even at distance. Use to own a 270 and loved that rifle as well.

[@brycehiigel235]

I have the .270win used it on a plains elk and recently purchased a 25-06 used it on a whitetail. These are my 2 favorite calibers also own a 300wm. Believe I have all my bases covered with these 3.

[@johnshields9110]

I have reloaded for, and shot, all 3 cartridges. Like many I have picked up a 6.5 CM, and am impressed with it accuracy and 'just enough' energy. Years ago, I fashioned a 6mm (80/86 gr) unto a std. 223 case for a ultra light deer rifle, and cross over varmint load, so the 6.5 drew my attention. My 25-06 was used for long distance varmints, Rem 700 Bull Barrel; alot of gun and wasn't really welcomed in the farming community; tight throat on Rem's were problematic to my desired max loads; never had premium bullets for heavier game; 117 gr round nose dropped deer. Used a handy 270 Ruger with 20 inch barrel for deer, and occasional varmints; a nephew talked me out of it, but it would have taken Elk with it at no problems. Getting older, I wanted less recoil and to introduce my daughter to hunting. I and a friend prepd a 264 Magnum Win 70 with 100 gr for Max range varmints, 26 " barrel; regular hits 500-600 yards; wish he's never let that one get away! With the newer bullets I choose the 264 over the other 3, daughter wouldn't tolerate that though!

[@nickg914]

Well presented and right 0n the mark.

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Thanks!

[@JDsModernMartialArts]

Very well presented information. Great job.

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Glad it was helpful!

[@andrewinvests839]

I've seen 6.5 creed and 25-06 both do a number on deer at 500 yards. I'd say they're a horse apiece within that range. 140 grain Creedmoor is super accurate though and I feel more comfortable with that over 300 yards. Under 300 yards with the 25 though and you don't have to do any holds!

[@kurtglo]

Andrew- I'm right with you on this one!

[@cbsbass4142]

I'll use my .260 Rem. for what my .25-06 can't do.

[@titomish5914]

@@cbsbass4142 the 6.5 creed came to eat up the 260 rem and it did a phenomenal job

[@verneklund8109]

Love my 270 remington. Also have a Parker Hale great gun!

[@Jeff_Seely]

I own a 6.5 CM and a 270. My humble opinion is that the 270 is slightly more versatile of these three. I don't have anything against the other two. Long-distance hunting is riding on the coat tails of the 6.5CM and there are folks out there deer hunting with high BC Creedmoor target loads from 800yds. This is absolutely wrong! So now 6.5CM carries a bad rap for being used in this manner. I am very happy with its strong points, but is it more accurate than my 270? I'd be hard-pressed to find that it is, generally speaking. Not nearly to the degree that we've all been encouraged to believe. No, it is not clearly "more accurate" from my perspective. Outstanding video.

[@PlunderAndPillage]

25-06 All the way.

[@kristerforsman2448]

6.5 mm is quite common for moose hunting here in Sweden. 80,000 or more are shot per year, so it is a well-functioning caliber. Originally, it was an army caliber also special for Sweden since 1896, Mauser / 96.

[@jefferyboring4410]

Ya but u so understand the creedmore is a different cartridge than u guys are using. Some ppl don’t understand that. Sorta like .30 cal everyone has a .30 cal of all sorts of course none of them interchangeable

[@gpearce11]

@@jefferyboring4410 True, but the 6.5x55 Swede (which is the round he's talking about) is almost completely identical ballistically to 6.5 CM, so his point about it being a functional moose cartridge still stands.

[@Calaveras32Spcl]

Yes, this is true. The Alaskan Yukon Moose can get to 816kg and 213cm tall. From what I understand, the European Moose is usually 160cm and 700kg. The 6.5 Sweed may still work, just wanted to illustrate the difference in the animals.

[@andrewtisdale4186]

I know that if you hand load for 6.5 creedmoor with copper bullets you can make a punch above its weight class. I imagine that would be the same for the 270 and the 2506. I love that I have the ability to debate back and forth which one I want to further invest in.

[@glennfisher2089]

That was a real good video, learned a lot

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Glad to hear it!

[@jerrythompson9111]

I like the 25/06 the best.

[@HarrisonCountyStudio]

An old 1971 bolt action Ruger in .25-06 has been an incredible shooter for me over the years.

[@maknbacon7367]

Wisconsin whitetail hunter and own all 3. I have to agree, the 25-06 is number one for me. While number's and chart's give a base of info, in field performance on game just put the 25-06 in the pole position. I even prefer the 25-06 on whitetail over my .257 and. 300 Wby's. The 25-06 is a bolt of lightning in the Wisconsin deer woods.

[@t.c.4933]

In a pinch, you can probably find 270 or 30-06 in any rural mom & pop store here out west.

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

You're probably right. 6.5 Creedmoor is getting close to that point too...

[@frankreinhardt441]

you should have thrown the 7mm-08 in the mix.

[@navyguy6431]

Exactly the 7mm-08 is just as good as the 6.5 creed out to normal hunting distances!

[@ericlopez4615]

I'm interested in the 6.5, but not yet willing to buy a rifle for it. I prefer, in these economically challenging times, to spend on ammo for my .270 Sig SHR rifle. When I do my part, this rifle will shoot three rounds into a quarter-sized hole at 200 yards, from the bench. It seems to shoot best with 140 grain bullets, and any brand using a Barnes bullet in any weight.

[@2003mikec]

I own a Savage 30-06 bolt action and a Remington 7400 semiauto 270. Both are great deer rifles and both shoot accurately - but the 30-06 is very light and it kicks hard! And that kick is why I feel the 270 auto is more accurate out to 200 yards. I don't own a 6.5 mm Creedmoor, but my friend who does a lot of extreme long range shooting tells me that the Creedmoor will out preform all of the rounds at 800+ yards. The one exception may be the 6.5 mm PRC. All that said, for deer hunting I have no problem with my 270.

[@troypeterson5536]

Great video. Got all three and all are great all-around cartridges. With the newer Berger 130gr plus bullets, the 25-06 might start shining above the 6.5 out at further ranges. The high BCs of the 6.5 CM sure help it out at further distances and the fact it is a short action gives it some props. The 25-06 still gets my hat tip as it can shoot much lighter bullets great for smaller game (varmints). With the 6.5 CM I load (of course) H4350 and get 143 eldx to fly 2775 fps and 123 sst to fly 2950 out of a Tikka T3x Super Light. Less the 1/2 MOA groups. Guns are tools, I don't take any of them personally and understand all (guns / tools) have advantages and dissadvantages. Would not shoot elk between 0 and 150 yds with the 143gr eldx as it blows up way too easy. At 200yds to 500yds it is a great behind the shoulder elk kiler. Again great, non-biased, comparison.

[@gerrykoch9761]

I have killed more deer and elk with my 25-06 then you have with any other gun you use for hunting. Love my 25-06 that I hand load for. 😊👍

[@aberhan]

After listening to this, I will stay with my 270 and rebarrel it to a heavy barrel. Probably not what you wanted to hear since you seem slanted towards the 6.5 Creedmoor, as a lot of people are.

[@matthewmichaels5522]

Got my 25-06 and a new 6.5 CM. Can't say the CM is any better than my 25 cal under 400m.

[@stevecooper8121]

I used to hunt with a 12 gauge 3inch slugs. Now I'm using a 270. So recoil is no big deal with the 270 compared to the old 12 gauge which would not your shoulder out of the socket.

[@whatthefluxwelding4042]

Seems to me that if you reload you could potentially get the best of both worlds with the 25-06. Case capacity of a 270 and high bc of a 6.5.

[@aronkoppold3981]

I'm a 25-06 guy myself and the 30-06 also I have both

[@clintjohnson7023]

They are all great. Great video

[@Goon18c]

I grew up smashing with a .25-06, honestly it's the best all around round with incredible ballistics. I still own one, but I last year picked up a Q Fix 16" 6.5. I am super impressed with it and am excited to try different loads. I'm not a fan of the 270, never have been.

[@lars277]

Out of those three cartridges, the .25.06 is my fav pick.

[@maartensswanepoel11]

I have hunted most African plains game with my 25 06 using PMP 120gr ProAmm and Sako 117gr Game Head cartridges.

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Very interesting! Seems like the 25-06 doesn't get a lot of love in Africa?

[@Buddha-of8fk]

Out of the 3 it's hard to top the .270. It's very versatile.

[@valsahr5836]

Whichever one you own and shoot well is the best…

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Which one would that be for you?

[@alexclarke3534]

.308 for me coz that’s all I could get in left handed at the time.🙂

[@jamesstrachan7417]

Know its a hand load deal but the 6.5 x 06 does it all and is very accurate.

[@BillWortman]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SAMSUN21]

Great review, thanks

[@danny_the_K]

You didn’t test a 115, 117, or 120 gr bullet in the 25.06, which are all standard loads. I just built a new one on a Howa 1500 (2024)… Love it and it’s amazingly accurate.

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Correct, and you make a good point. These comparisons can be challenging sometimes because I always try to compare identical bullet types for all 3 cartridges. With that in mind, I'm restricted to using bullets available in all 3 and must use the weights offered. That just happened to be 100gr and 110gr bullets in this particular comparison. For what it's worth, I use 100gr and 120gr bullet weights for the 25-06 in my 25-06 vs 30-06 comparison here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oavJpHyNZsqdiMU&t

[@waylonlegend4603]

If I had to pick one I’d choose 30-06.

[@C_H_U_]

True, since you never shot 270, 24-06, and 6.5 creedmoor.

[@georgesakellaropoulos8162]

@@C_H_U_ I have, and I take my '06 out much more often, especially if I want meat in the freezer. That's probably because I've been shooting it since I was 10, but I have given the others a real try. They have performed excellently, but the '06 is like an extension of my will at this point.

[@АлакПатрова]

I too wouod choose the 7mm08

[@tatsuhirosatou5513]

The ruger american is available in 25-06 I have one.

[@reedr1659]

My .270 is the first rifle I ever bought. It shoots straight and is much lighter than other guns chambered in bigger cartridges. I've got no reason to replace what isn't broken.

[@johnbuck6685]

I know the 270 really does the trick on elk. Many years ago on a hunt with dad. I was able to bring down 5 elk in one day with a 270 and we did lose 1 elk that was gut shot but we had plenty of meat anyway. Dad had to go purchase another deep freezer. I’ve killed more elk in a day before on numerous occasions and always with the 270. The 270 will never disappoint

[@laurentiusduplessis3761]

Hey love your videos see do a lot of comparison with well know calibers how about you do one say with 6.5x55 vs 7x57 and 9.3x62 witch have great history

[@Thebiggamehuntingblog]

Good idea!

[@ralphgreenjr.2466]

I own a rifles in all three calibers and reload for each. They are all excellent whitetail deer cartridges, the 25-06 shoots longer, the .270 is long and hits harder, but 6.5 mm family is just a superior caliber at modest velocities. I have taken deer with all three and for me .270 is my choice. The key to all three is to practice as you will hunt. Each year I shoot right at 200 rounds before season. That is why I reload.

[@sammylacks4937]

Smart man.

[@brucepk631]

all 3 are wesome but so is my 7-08... and i have 2 of them and ammo so im stikcking with the -08... good video too!

[@dougtarbet6193]

Excellent presentation! Would love to see a comparison between 6 Creed, 6.5 Creed and 280 AI.

[@ez7977]

No reason to compare.. the 280 trounces both.

[@johnbaldwin351]

@@ez7977 except when it comes to ammo availability, factory chambering options, BC, sectional density, barrel length, action length, rifle weight and recoil. 280 ai is an awesome round, I'll likely buy/build one for my next rifle. But to claim outright one cartridge is superior to another is pretty silly

[@JAKDRZR]

@@johnbaldwin351 I’m pretty sure he means you shouldn’t compare basically magnum ballistics with anything that says creedmoor on is. I shoot a browning xbolt 280ai and load 175gr eldx at 2940fps. That’s 200 faster then a 6.5 creed and 30gr more weight and better bc! So yeah it stomps a creedmoor badly. A 7rem mag or 7prc is a better comparison.

[@invalidusername4732]

I just bought a 25-06 because I thought it would be a good generalist cartridge for varmint to medium game. But from what I hear about it, it seems much more capable for big game than I thought. It will make an excellent partner to my 35 whelen and I’m sure there is nothing I can’t hunt with either of those two cartridges aside from some African game and certain marine and now extinct species

[@kevinroberts9580]

25-06 also is used by varmint Hunters, but the 270 is probably best all-around old cartridge. But I rather like the new 6.5 PRC

[@d-rayphelps1630]

Yes it started out that way, but it has NOT Stayed that way . There's a lot of things that can't breathe any longer because of the 25-06. I have Custom 25-06 barrel on my Thompson Center frame. Very accurate out to 500yds. Far as I can shoot now. Building a longer range Have a good one and May God bless y'all, Bo. MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AS WELL!!!!

[@brettb4452]

Tikka t3x in 7mm-08, Rem 700 in .270, Ruger in 25-06. I'm always torn I don't ever know which one to take. Not to mention my 7mm mag and 22-250

[@JimParvin-o9e]

The 270 is the better round for norh American game across the board. The 280 Remington is even better.

[@michaelnelson1911]

Great video. You did say at the end that all of these caliber would take an elk but that none of them would be your preferred elk cartridge. So what would be you preferred cartridge for elk?

[@kevincraig8257]

my favorite elk cartridge is the 7mm mag I wouldnt think he will be to far away from that