I Don't Trust This Rifle...

[@xSPORTSMAN1993x]

ELD-X has had similar results for me as well, switched to Barnes TTSX and LRX and get consistent bang-flops. Federal Terminal Ascent is also very good.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Lots of votes for Terminal Ascent. I better listen and try some out

[@TODinWY]

@@mountaintacticalcompany Good luck in your search for TA's.

[@backfire]

Great vid. I have a rifle that seems to”cursed” as well. Respectfully, I do think “too fast to expand” is a myth. There is no reasonable speed at which a car hits a telephone pole at which it stops pancaking the metal. I agree with you on the limits of 6.5 PRC. I’ve killed over a dozen with the ELDX and a 6.5 PRC and love that combo for deer but prefer a copper for larger game. Appreciate you sharing your experience.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Hi Jim! I completely agree with the analogy of the car and telephone pole. This is why I do not understand what I am seeing with the performance with the ELD-X. I experienced the same thing with ballistic tips in my 270WSM when that was the hot rod to run 😂 I switched to 165gr Matrix Ballistics (unfortunately no longer in business) and nothing ran after getting hit with those. I appreciate the perspective you give people on gear. I’ve used your videos for market research many times. We’re pretty myopic on Tikkas at the shop, so it’s great to see what other companies are doing. If you’re ever in Montana, we should go shooting. Cheers!

[@LBZOverlander]

A guy in our hunting group hunts with a 6.5x284 which appears ballistically similar to the 6.5PRC. He loads his own Berger 140 VLD. It has absolutely devastating results. Elk have an exit wound about the size of a baseball.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m going between a monolithic like Hammer or the Bergers. I’ve never had anything walk away from a Berger

[@stefanveltri7187]

156 Elite Hunter or 147 ELD-m are both fantastic and devastating on game Handloaded

[@REDNECKROOTS]

6.5 Nosler ballistic tips. Those open up at any distance

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

The last time I used those was in my 270WSM when that was the hot rod de jure. I had issues with them penciling as well. Has the construction changed?

[@MyHuntingJournal]

Jason, run some 130 Hornady cx or 127 barnes LRX and I promise youll see better results. Bloodtrails like a firehose have been my experience.

[@williamwright9284]

Agreed that these bullets are ideal for faster speeds. Just be conscious of what distance will ensure that you’re still fast enough to guarantee good expansion.

[@thomasgordon935]

147gn eld m, 2812 fps with n565. Slow for a prc but hammers big sika stags in the rut no problem. Love it

[@VintageForagerBun1]

Ive had the same problem with my 270 winchester. The ELD-X is super accurate, but i had performance issues at close range with it. Spent 4 hours tracking a buck in the dark because it passed through both lungs but didn't do enough damage to put the animal down quickly. I'm trying ferderal fusion bonded bullets this year even though they are slightly less accurate in my remington 700.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Oh man... were you able to find your buck?

[@VintageForagerBun1]

@mountaintacticalcompany yes i was, he had gone into real thick brush, so he made it hell to get him out. Durring the butchering process, there was next very little damage done. I assume the bullet didnt expand after hitting the buck.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That’s what it looked like in the buck I show in the video. He buried himself deep in some willows after sprinting the parameter of the alfalfa field he was in.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m glad you were able to find him!

[@VintageForagerBun1]

Thanks! Im glad you recovered that buck, too! Heres to HOPEFULLY not having these issues going forward with better bullets!

[@dennissheehan7930]

I own 6.5CM , 6.5PRC and 6.5SAUM. I run the ELD-M for hunting in all of them. With excellent results.

[@hewlett260]

For the 6.5 PRC, I use Nosler Accubond LR 142's, Berger EOL Hybrid 156's and Barnes TSX. Rifle is a Mauser M18

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

ABLRs work great in my 28 Nosler. I also have a couple hundred 156 EOLs. I'll definitely try them out!

[@hewlett260]

@@mountaintacticalcompany H1000 or Magpro will be your best friend with the EOL's

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Thank you!

[@rogerpemberton79]

"IF" you can get them to shoot accurately in your rifle there is nothing not to like about the 140 gr Nosler Partition. They open up every time and have excellent penetration.

[@jamesmooney5348]

Yep!

[@trc295]

Good luck on finding a solution. It's a great caliber. I'm waiting on my Tikka action to come back from Cerakote for my 7 prc build. I almost built a 6.5 prc but settled on the 7 prc. It just looks like the 7 prc is about the best PRC caliber on paper, plus I've always loved 7mm calibers. I gave my son my trusty 7 rem mag last year that lasted me 20yrs. Now, the plan is to use my 280AI for anything under 150gr and a 7prc for anything over 150 gr.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

If the 7PRC was around when I built this rifle, it would be a 7. There’s something about 7mms I keep coming back to

[@thepracticalrifleman]

Bonded or copper.

[@PaulNirschl]

I like Norma Bond Strikes. Last year I dropped a White Tail at 45yds with my Tikka in 6.5 PRC.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Good to hear! I think this is going to be the first bullet I test based on all the great feedback. Thank you!

[@nikos6220]

One key factor is missing here, distance on those shots. Based on what you describe I assume it were relatively close shots- 200 yard and in or very very long shots. After reading a Hornady white paper I decided to load my 200 grain ELD-X to about 2500 fps impact velocity. Due to its softer construction to cover the longs distance shots, I believe performance is sub par at 2600 fps and above. As you are covering quite the size of game range with the cartridge and long range capabilities seem to be a requirement… I would try the 142 Nosler AccuBond Long Range. Same ballistics as the ELD-X but it won’t come apart even at 3000 fps

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

The ABLRs work great in my 28 Nosler. Typically, I do not like to discuss the ranges different animals are when I take shots. They are usually 250+ yards. The reason I do not like to discuss ranges is because it can give someone who does not practice routinely beyond those ranges a false sense of ability to engage game at ranges they’ve never practiced at. This is a problem I see often in the hunting community. Someone who has never shot past 100 yards at a local range thinks he can shoot 500 yards based on what their box of ammo says.

[@nikos6220]

@@mountaintacticalcompany got it. Yeah, long range hunting based on inherently accurate cartridge and long range capability marketing talk and trajectories from the box of ammo are a plight. Great to hear that you like the ABLRs in a fast cartridge. Will soon have some real life results on a 300 WM 190 ABLR starting out at about 3100 fps

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That’s smokin’!

[@nikos6220]

@@mountaintacticalcompany yep, very close to max pressure, reloader 17 with fire formed brass, 24”

[@samwoodson3781]

I’ve heard the same thing about eld-x in 6.5 creedmoor as well. I don’t hunt game animals with my 6.5 but I got sold on Barnes solid copper bullets after taking a deer with my .300 blackout. I’m hoping this year I’ll be hunting with a customized tikka in .35 whelen as long as the barrel comes in time. Got three different Barnes loads that I’m going to try in it, hopefully it likes at least one of them.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

35 Whelen is on my short list. Talk about a thumper!

[@lorenzotelleria1858]

Use terminal ascent, or clean that barrel bare and use monolithic (CX, Hammer, anything).

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Lots of votes for Terminal Ascent. I need these in my life

[@d.r.sandbo1570]

This is the way, tried Barnes and Leigh Def, ended up with Hammers for all my hunting calibers.

[@gregb.6682]

The one gun for silhouette and hunting chatter is a siren song thats shipwrecks people. Im sure compromise is achievable but not without compromise and obstacles. Maybe a dedicated two gun build will reduce frustration in the long run..

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Haha! As you can see on the wall, a lack of guns is not the problem. I have no desire to shoot this rifle competitively. The carbon barrel alone prevents this. My goal is to turn this into a viable hunting rifle. Cheers!

[@gregb.6682]

@@mountaintacticalcompany it's a nice rig..I got complete confidence you'll figure it out. Thank you for the interesting content.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’ll keep posting as long as you keep watching! Cheers!

[@HawaiiOutdoorsmen]

Same with us here in Hawaii, We were recently having this discussion. My friend has a PRC and I have the Creedmore, same ammo, similar results and our sheep here are small. I’ve had a couple rams drop dead but funny they were both under 60 yards, most of them run. I’m mainly a bow hunter and enjoy tracking but bullets don’t leave blood trails like Broadheads. Good luck.

[@mikecrafar6276]

I have two 6.5 prc rifles and load two others for mates. The 143gr is very accurate in mine but I’ve had the same kind of results you mentioned -particularly from closer ranges. My mates both love the results they are getting, one with the 143gr & the other with the 147gr. So that just confuses the issue more. I’m about to start load development with the 156gr EOL - I think that will be a great option if the shoot well. The 140gr Berger hunting VLD has always worked awesome for me in 6.5-300wsm, so that could be a good choice also.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I wonder why there is such a disparity of results with this bullet…

[@adbarnes01]

147 Eldm's are straight killers in my PRC

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That's what Nick keeps telling me.

[@heythere6566]

I have a 6.5 PRC in the Ember model that I have not shot and preparing to load for it, at the recommendation of a relative he swears by the 147 ELDM, I'm going to start there. Hammer or Barnes are also wonderful choices, if you do go that route watch Jim's video at "Backfire" entitled "Ron Spomer Saved My Favorite Gun!". Bottom line is he had accuracy problems with the copper bullets and Ron said you had to clean the barrels to bare metal before switching to them. That solved his accuracy problem. Best of luck!!!

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Thank you! I’ll check out that video. Jim and Ron are two of my favorite guntubers

[@22Kreedmire]

Around here we don’t use the 143x. We use the 140 or 147eldm and it absolutely smokes deer and elk out of the 6.5PRC. The X doesn’t open fast enough.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m never using the 143 ELD-X again unless it’s just for targets

[@22Kreedmire]

I haven’t tried them for hunting as they didn’t shoot as good as the M’s. But we’ve killed multiple elk and deer and the M’s act similar to a Berger. They open up pretty quick and cause mega damage

[@leorexwinkle683]

Why would you use a “target bullet” for game? I know Hornady has sold this as a hunting bullet. Run a Barnes, Nosler or another proven hunting projectile.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

ELD-X is sold and marketed as their precision hunting bullet. That’s why

[@tilley3rar]

@@mountaintacticalcompany Respect for not just publishing the wins. I swear Hornady's own marketing has changed their weight retention figures. They are saying 90% now, but I swear they used to market how good the ELDX's weight retention was at around 50%. They even used it as a selling point and people lapped it up. The old "explodes like a hand grenade" myth. Athlon have a clip and are getting around 30% from high velocity cartridges. You can market a target bullet for hunting and most will just publish the wins rather than the limitations.

[@bradleylivingston6514]

the ELD-match is a phonomenal bullet on deer... at least it is when using the 6.5 grendel I built last year to be my deer rifle. So far I've only shot one, but it ran about 20 yards & dropped. Shot placement is obviously the key. Mine went through the near ribs, out the far ribs, & stopped on the inside of the far shoulder (at least the jacket did). What it left behind was a lung cavity that looked like it was put through a blender. Mine has only a 16" barrel so the mv is only 2450 fps with a 123 gr Hornady Black factory ammo. I can't imagine it would be worse if moving faster.

[@VMac-zh2qg]

I’ve had great success and love Barnes LR. Mushrooms are low and high yards.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I love the Barnes in my 338WM. Nothing walks away from it!

[@MargaretSolomon-h1r]

I have had the same problem with my creedmore which I have sold. so back to the 270 with 150 Sieria game kings they have never let me down in my 243 or 270 they maybe an old one but they work every time

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

You can’t go wrong with Sierras in any situation!

[@Bowhunter66]

Go to the 156 Berger and N565 and don't look back. Somewhere around 58 to 59gns of powder. My load is, we'll 2 loads 58gns 2950mv and 58.6 3005mv, both shoot. 2s and .3s and 5 shot half moa at 1000k. I'm shooting a Bergara Wilderness Ridge and it's a hammer.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Sounds like a good excuse to try some Vhitavuori!

[@RMM--uv7uk]

This was my same recipe. And results. But under 150yards. The Berger156 is exploding in my testing. I ended up settling on 130CX , 54.5gr of H-4831SC 3150mV. I need to be able to take a shot from 50 yards to 400 yards. The CX tested the best.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Interesting results. Thank you!

[@johnandrosemarywyatt977]

I think it's important to know what your planned shooting distance is. Under 300 yds, the bc is of little consequence. I don't trust the eld-x even in my 6.5 man bun. You may want to look at the norma 143 bondstrike.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’ll take a look at Norma. Thank you!

[@BornAgain2019]

@@johnandrosemarywyatt977 honestly high BC boatail bullets don't really start to make a significant difference over traditional flat base Spitzer's until you get beyond 400 yds. Most game is taken before that and bullet construction taylored to taking the the quarry you are targeting is the most important factor in choosing your hunting bullets.

[@BornAgain2019]

If you can get your hands on Federal Fusion Tipped ammo, Mason Leather tested them in numerous cartridges and calibers and averaged 2.5 to 3x expansion with 95 to 98% weight retention @100 yds and that equates to excelent long range performance.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Will do!

[@kerryfalls3292]

I’ll guarantee you federal is the answer!

[@BornAgain2019]

@@kerryfalls3292 the terminal ascent line is a little harder and expansion is around 2.1x expansion vs the 2.5 to 2.9x of the fusion even though both are bonded bullets and since he's having issues with 6.5 bullets blowing through with a small wound channel the fusion line would be a better fit, and its weight retention is very good at 95 to 98% with penetration of 25" @ 100yds.

[@packerjh2]

Buds gun shop

[@packerjh2]

KZbin eldx ballistics fails I also tracked an elk hit tight behind shoulder about 400 yards with a very light bloodtrail. Most my bullet was behind the hide, 218 yard shot.

[@richcotte]

Tough call on advice since I don't run a 6.5 PRC. You mentioned Hammers and you know my stance on them, so that's where I'd start.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m about to head out to test Hammers in my 284 Win

[@Farmerboy78]

I run a 6.5-06, essentially a twin... I use the 140gr berger hybrid or the 140gr jlk

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Bergers are just awesome. I shouldn’t have drunken the Hornady Kool Aid

[@Accuracy1st]

Bullets in my queue to try: 143 Norma Bondstrike, 140 Speer Impact. But currently I'm using 140 Berger VLDs with flawless results with handloads. I did take a couple whitetail deer last season with factory ELDX and it worked fine. Shots were 180 yards to 210 and both deer collapsed with lung shots. I plan to try the ABLRs also. I bought a bunch of Nosler 2nds in those. I think they are 142 grain? And I have a ton of 127LRX that drop deer but I've only experienced those in my 6.5-284 Norma so far.

[@lycheeznuts]

Bondstrikes gave me narrow wound channels and minimal blood bc they hold together too well, similar to a mono. I've since switched to ELDMurders and been much happier. They do much more internal damage

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I think I’m going to try a monolithic and the 156 EOLs and compare the results. Not sure which monolithic though

[@lycheeznuts]

@@mountaintacticalcompanywhy monos. narrow wound channels and junk BCs. Zero reason to shoot monos unless you live in CA

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m about to test some Hammers in my 284 Win. It’s a fragging mono with high BCs. The wound channels are supposed to be hellacious

[@Accuracy1st]

@@mountaintacticalcompany Take a look at McGuire Ballistics all coppers

[@benjaminconsler5699]

What's more likely is that your bullet is coming apart. The ELDX is not a strong bullet, it's designed for long range low velocity performance. "Too fast to expand" is a myth. I would try a tougher bullet such as a Barnes.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

This makes a ton of sense. Thank you! I’m going to go further down this line of thinking. Cheers!

[@christojordaan5018]

Used 143eld x in 6.5 creedmoor switched to 140 eld match better accuracy and expanded more easily for a bigger wound channel

[@375Ragnarok]

147eldm,153atip or 156eol. I would not shoot other bullets in 6.5prc for long range killing performance

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I have a couple hundred 156 EOLs. I’ll have to give them a try.

[@375Ragnarok]

@@mountaintacticalcompany 156 at 2867fps on moose kzbin.info4OCc-JCWeg8?si=iGhwVCsLWUKw-Qcf

[@375Ragnarok]

@@mountaintacticalcompany 156eol 2867fps on moose kzbin.info4OCc-JCWeg8?si=iGhwVCsLWUKw-Qcf

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That dropped him! Is that a alces alces moose? Maybe it's the scope, but it looks about the same size as our elk.

[@375Ragnarok]

​@@mountaintacticalcompany yes its Scandinavian moose. Almost same as your biggest elk

[@timbjork2098]

what you asking for is bullet change other wise I would say caliber change and more hp. little recoil get lighter hits. love the rifle build other wise I would do 6.8 or 7mm more hp and load down for smaller things like deer and pronghorn

[@mr.mr.3301]

I would try terminal assent. Check out Mason leather also simple minded fella as well. I also like Barnes but they require velocity so you would need to stay closer than eldx. Side note, I’m not a fan of the eldx. Really depends on how you want your bullet to perform. Do you want to dump energy or have pass throughs and blood loss. Being out west those folks seem to like more frontage bullets. Here in the east we want pass throughs for blood trails. Side note the 6.5 prc ballistics is very close to the 270. So when you check out mason leathers channel look at the 270 tests.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’ll definitely check Mason Leather out. Thank you!

[@Impacthunting503]

147 Eld-m I took a couse deer at 430 no problem and another one at 70 yards with no problem I am messing with the 156 as well with good results on paper but we will see this season.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’ve both looking at wound channels from both of those bullets. They are catastrophic!

[@michaelgilland9417]

Shot my first with this season. Using the x’s. Deer maybe went 15 yards after the shot. Slightly quartered. Bullet just under hide on off side. I was concerned about the lack of damage upon field dressing it. Will be handloading for soon. Had this deer been broadside and not hit in shoulder. I think I’d experienced similar results as you did.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m glad it ended up working out for you. Check out the follow up video on this rifle. The Norma Bondstrike performed exceptionally well.

[@Dalesarty]

I’ve been saying for years behind every bad hunting experience there’s a hornady bullet leading the way. Go to federal ( fusion, terminal ascent, trophy copper ) or a Barnes bullet. Hornady is great at marketing and screaming loud enough to get the attention like a spoiled child unfortunately redesigning a case to take a high BC has been going on for years, Hornady builds slow cartridges for target applications ie 6.5cm and garbage cup and core bullets. The old GMX rebranded as the CX and optimized for the PRC is their only real hunting offering. Y’all missed the boat hoping on that Hornady wagon as the 6.8 eats it’s lunch everyday.

[@406rts3]

Wow

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Shots fired! In all seriousness, there is quite a bit of wisdom in what you said. I never took Hornady seriously in the past and I decided to drink the Kool Aid this time and it bit me.

[@shampton911]

This is the most accurate statement I’ve seen in a long while. Hornady ammunition seems to have went to sh!t.

[@craigparker4108]

From all the gel tests i have seen ( Mason Outdoors ) Federal Fusion & Terminal Ascent outperform all others. Expansion & weight retention = meat retention. I have heard Hornady brass is not a good choice for reloading.

[@shampton911]

@@craigparker4108 I like watching Masons videos great info on ammunition 👍

[@Scott-jj5on]

156 eol or 147 eldm for my 6.5prc.Ive switched to eldm in 7prc shooting 180s and 208s out of my 300wsm as well(its long throated).The eldm is lethal...

[@ericbrundage315]

Can’t wait to try fusion tipped. Original fusion was potent

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m going to try the Fusion and Norma BondStrike based on everyone’s suggestions here. Once testing is done, I’ll report back

[@davestrohmeyer-saddleupsho8009]

If you are able, make a High shoulder shot, break the shoulder or hit the brachial plexis and they drop, even with a cup and core bullet.

[@northtexasvarmintcontrol1454]

Handloads Berger 156 EOL. 2900fps. Two bull elk, 300yds, and 400yds drt.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Now that's what I'm talking about! Do you have a preferred powder?

[@jacobhecks4977]

Could the twist rate be wrong for that round?

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

1:8 is standard. You can go faster, but it would not improve bullet performance. It would allow for heavy monolithics though.

[@ajsomp]

I’m shooting 6.5PRC 147eldm factory in my tikka stainless. I might suggest a slightly forward of where you might usually shoot. I’m not a huge fan of OTM or anything copper for less than ideal expansion and reliability. But regardless - the 147 is the ticket unless you want to hand load 140 ELDMs.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I'm OK with handloading and much prefer it. Ammo is so good these days, I have to admit that I have gotten spoiled buying off the shelf the last few years...

[@jaycupples4362]

Rocking 153.5gr Berger Hybrid with H1000 around 2,900fps out of my 6.5prc 1.-7.5 twist prefit 700. I haven’t had a chance to take any deer with it yet but hopefully to.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I would take that!

[@Eggomania86]

The problem I had with Eld-x bullets was core jacket separation. I wasn't getting adequate penetration. Eld-x bullets tend to dump their energy pre maturely. What happened was the core disintegrated upon impact the jacket kept going. It does appear to look like it was shot with an FMJ . You want a good bonded Bullet ergo, Nosler Accubond, or LR Accubond. Also, check out Speer Impact. Swift Scirocos are excellent as well. Also tried and true Nosler Partitions. Hornady ELD-X bullets are accurate and fly beautifully. However, they are not the greatest game bullet. With a more traditional game bullet, you will lose the ballistic advantage found in an Eld-x. However, you'll get better performance on game if you run a more traditional hunting bullet. Speer Impact and Nosler LR Accubond does fly very well if longer ranges are required. Unlike an Eld-x, the AB LR and Speer Impact are bonded are designed to have controlled expansion characteristics that are desired in a hunting bullet. The Eld-x bullets are cup and core with thin jackets.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

What you are describing is exactly what I’m seeing. These bullets are just punching holes. The ABLR is magic in my 28 Nosler

[@matthewpeavler9107]

Nosler accubonds, accubond long range or Norma bondstrike. Avoid the eld-x in Montana, they have issues in cold weather across a variety of cartridges

[@matthewpeavler9107]

Also don't discount berger

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Interesting note on the cold weather. It has been below zero for each hunt I’ve used this on

[@jerryhall1541]

It is the bullet! Slower on ELDX is better. Like the others say Hammer and Nosler are great for opening.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I just finished testing some Hammers in my 284 Win. Worst group was .6 MOA!

[@WayneGent-t2l]

A core lock is better then eldx

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Call me a snob, but I never even thought of the Core Lock. Those and the basic blue box Federal usually do very well. Thank you!

[@WayneGent-t2l]

I have had good luck with them nosler and federal over the years

[@WayneGent-t2l]

​@@mountaintacticalcompanyI have had good luck with them and nosler and federal. I have never used the eldx a friend of mine beet me to when they first came out and didn't have the best results so I have never used them

[@JMJProductions-fh8vq]

ELDX has a thicker copper jacket than the ELDM. Copper gets stronger and more ductile the colder it gets. If you are in cold climates use the 147 ELDM. If you do go ELDX you better hit some bone first or you might lose your animal in sub freezing temps.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

This is an interesting point. Several guys have told us they’ve had failures in really cold weather. We’re going to test this theory this winter in gel. Lead also hardens when it transitions from extreme heat to extreme cold. Our silhouette shooters in Europe have a whole process they put their bullets through to harden them.

[@timsmith5837]

The ELDM 147 in the CM is a deadly bullet. It has served me well.

[@packerjh2]

M alot better for game than x

[@BornAgain2019]

@@timsmith5837ELDM is designed as a match bullet. It's still a cup and core design but may have a thicker jacket which prevents blow up. Might pencil at extended ranges.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

The CM would be interesting for sure

[@DirtFever]

I don’t own a 6.5 of any sort but I’d try Barnes VOR-TX LR or federal terminal ascent if it’s available in that caliber?

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

@@DirtFever those were my back ups. I tried the Norma Bondstrike since the brass is so good that if the ammo did not perform, I would have excellent brass to try a different bullet. The Norma Bondstrike far exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend anyone to give Norma a shot

[@jamesmooney5348]

I really trust Nathan Fosters criteria. For elk size game, he goes 160 gr. + in weight for a minimum. But prefers 180 grain at .284 cal for elk as a solid performer. He also likes the eld-M for that work at. Not many people have done as much for long range hunter as Nathan has. For me, I dont want to shoot past .75 seconds of flight time. Although I have studied what kills game, I still want to hit an elk if at all possible with 2000 ft lbs of energy at, at least 2300 fps (again, if possible) And use copper bullets. Id rather use a bigger bat then use the minimum needed. I rather be a bit over kill, then the minimum needed. But deer size game the 6.5 is great. Also, I would say your bullet place is key to what bullet you use. As in a copper bullet to the high shoulder cns drt.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

The 175 ABLRs out of my 28 Nosler are devastating on elk. 6.5x55se has been taking moose since 1891. Shot placement and bullet performance is key. The bullet has to be able to transfer all that kinetic energy into the animal in the form of damage to the cardiovascular or nervous system. Great info from Nate as well!

[@DirtNapSpecialist]

I too have left the 143 ELD-X in my 6.5 PRC...I've had 2 brands of 6.5 PRC's and now have one after converting my Tikka into a 18 inch 7SAUM which I'm loving so far but haven't taken much with it yet accept a few pigs. My opinion after multiple animals and several years hunting with the 6.5 PRC is the 143 ELD-X can't handle the 6.5 PRC speed. I've have no issues with it in Creedmoor, but PRC speeds it frags really badly in my experience. I've had multiple whitetail and even mule deer that delivered lead and copper in my breakfast sausage for the family which is a problem for me, as well as multiple exit wounds from over fragmentation...if they exit at all and I prefer blood trails. These findings have been on game 325 and closer. I've switched over to bonded and monolithic bullets with great results. If I'm hunting close I love the 127 LRX and classic 140 Partition and if I'm chasing BC for longer shots I've had great success with 142 Nosler AccuBond Long Range and 143 Norma Bondstrike on game. (Haven't tried the newer 150 grain ABLR yet) I haven't hunted elk or animals that size before but look forward to when I do, but that'll be the short barrel suppressed 7SAUM setup with high BC bonded bullets or monolithic. I love the 6.5 PRC but bullet selection has to be tough. All my 140-143 grain projectiles I'm loading hot at 3000-3050 FPS using Ramshot Magnum if that helps.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I just finished an 18” 284 Winchester. Still doing load development, but the initial results are promising! Based on what everyone is saying, I’m going to test the 156 EOL, 143 Bondstrike, 142 ABLRs, and the 124 Hammers

[@phild9813]

Not a 6.5 PRC, but similar… I use a 130 TTSX in 270, 140 TSX in 270wsm, and 127 LRX in the 6.5 creedmoor. As you might imagine, I like coppers. If you’re looking for explosive results, coppers probably aren’t what you want. The LRXis probably the most “explosive” but the speedy 130 TTSX in 270 can’t be far behind, if at all. My favorite is the 270wsm.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I run the TTSX in my 338WM. Absolutely devastating on game

[@greasemonkey4god]

You need to the Exo Mountain Gear podcast from earlier this summer with Form. It’s 4 hours long. I’ve listened 3 times and still trying to piece it all together

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I started to listen to it but struggle with the fake voice of Form. Why does he need that…

[@greasemonkey4god]

@@mountaintacticalcompany I believe he is covering his true identity as discussed early in the first episode. I actually have a friend that sounds similar to him though oddly enough. 🤷🏻

[@blindboyjonny]

Ballistically this thing is the same as a 270 Winchester. Pick the bullet and distance that you would use for that cartridge. It is not a super thumper on elk, but you might try a different bullet… Perhaps a Barnes. They are now making a 155 grain, RX bullet. Fast opening but total weight retention.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

A 155 Barnes?!?! I need this!

[@jrk850_69]

Federal Terminal Ascent, Accubond, or Swift Scirocco II

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Great choices!

[@DanielGuillette]

I’d stick to copper, though as much as I’d like a 6.5 prc, I’d rather use a caliber that has a longer barrel life.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

If you can afford to shoot out a barrel, you can afford a new barrel. A barrel costs a fraction of the ammo cost. Even with a “barrel burner”

[@scitzmnm]

Sounds to me like you figured out the problem and there’s no need to keep that rifle on the shelf.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Time to test the bullets you guys have suggested!

[@TheCodyO]

I’ve had good luck with the ELD match. So far I have killed 5 big game animals with it. SST’s are very accurate in my rifle but failed to penetrate through a goat shoulder into the vitals at 100 yards… bullet dumped its energy so fast it just made a gapping hole and decimated the shoulder without giving adequate penetration. It required a follow up a hour later unfortunately. At 200 yards it performed well. This is 6.5 CM velocities btw.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Thank you! That's dissapointing to hear about the SSTs... glad you were able to put him down

[@lenzadlberger]

I had good Terminal Performance in 6.5x55SE with ordinary 140gn Hornady SST, Speer Impact 140gn and Barnes LRX 127gn (shot several Wild Boar/ Red Deer and Stag and some Roe Bucks) and yes i run my Swede Hot and Long in a Mauser M12 loaded to more modern Pressures at around 4000bar (58000PSI) OAL at around 79.3mm (3.122inch) the SST and Speer out of my 22inch Barrel with around 870m/s (2850ft/s) the LRX with 2985ft/s in a modern Rifle with good Brass no Problem at all (Lapua 6.5SE Brass is Cheap to get)

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

The OG 6.5!!! I really want one. You can do amazing things with modern rifles. How are the wound channels with the LRX?

[@lenzadlberger]

@@mountaintacticalcompany the LRX has the same Woundchannels then my 308 with the TTSX (wich is my Favorite combination in my 308 130gn at 3021ft/s) only difference is the LRX is a bit softer Material so it opens faster (with the LRX speficly i shot 1 Red Doe full Heart Shot 180 Yards away the Heart Was a Red Mass but no Heart it ran 20m and dropped Dead, 2 Roe Bucks dropped in the Tracks, 10 Wild Boar (8 doesnt count cause Head Neck shots ) 2 on the Shoulder is simply worked With my 308 TTSX is have shot around 30 Red Deer furthest tracking needed was 50 Meters same For Roe and Wildboar

[@Snailz5]

I’d say the 127gr LRX if you want to go conventional monolithic. Hammer HHT, Cutting Edge Lazer, or Apex Afterburners if you wanna try a shed petal design and get some high bcs (Hammer juices their numbers so field test). All the other conventional monos seem to be more or less Barnes knock offs so why get the copy when the original figured it out and continues to lead the field. I know you’re not the normal hunter, but I’m just gobsmacked at the idea of building such a crazy high end rifle and abandoning it because of not wanting to try other bullets. Just astounding.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’ll have to check out the CE and Apex monos. The Hammers and LRX are some of my favorites. I have zero intent of abandoning this rifle. That’s why I’m asking for help by learning what is working for you guys.

[@williamwright9284]

Weird bc I’ve seen good results from the 143. If I had anything to complain about, I’d complain that it comes apart too quickly and sheds too much weight. But the only reason I know that is bc I’ve recovered bullets from a lot of dispatched critters that usually died very close to where they received said ELD-X lol. What velocity are you running? There’s no such thing as too fast to expand.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That’s what doesn’t make sense to me. The bullets are leaving the muzzle at approximately 3050 fps.

[@williamwright9284]

@@mountaintacticalcompany that’s wild. Were all these animals shot with 143’s from the same lot? I wonder if it’s possible you got a lot that just so happen to have a smaller cavity behind the tip, or a thicker jacket around the ogive, or some crazy rare manufacturing defect that wouldn’t be noticeable by visually inspecting. Might be worth gel testing them side by side with some precision hunter. I’m assuming all of these bullets exited and were not recovered?

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

This is a great idea. Yes. All of these are from the same lot. After getting so much feedback, it is obvious that more speed means more expansion. However, it does sound like the ELD-X has a reputation of coming apart and poor performance in cold weather. All of these hunts have been sub zero

[@johanneslaxell6641]

I have a "sneaky suspicion" that speed is a problem. Similar is present when shooting into ballistics gel with smaller bullets: sometimes they just don't expand. My guess is that these new calipers send the bullet so fast into soft tissue that it just goes through. And a modern bullet expand to about 2×diameter and that isn't wery much as the bullet is smaller. If bullet is 1mm smaller in diameter (6.5 instead of 7.62 for example) area when expanded is much smaller. Here in Finland we have had good experience with lead-free bullits:Norma, Lapua, Sako and RWS for example. Do the bullets even have time to expand or are they going straight through? I don't know, just wondering if the hits are too "clean" and not enough shrapnel? When looking at video it just looks like puncturing with a needle, no shock effect. Now a wild theory: If the polymer tip on modern bullets don't gets loose ih might work like making the bullet into a FMJ, I have seen it happen with .17HMR in ballistics gel. Not saying it happens with the deers, just throwing some ideas...

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

These are great ideas. The bullets are not opening up all the way. With so little frontal displacement, the bullet must expand rapidly to cause damage. I’m thinking of trying monolithics or the Berger EOL. Both expand really well. Thank you for your input!

[@codyoldford1592]

Go Terminal Ascent. Unreal at all distances.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Lots of guys are recommended that load. I’ll have to check it out. Thank you!

[@dnags403]

Sounds like a bullet issue, not a rifle issue. I’m curious to know what the distances were and the type of animal you shot at each distance? Were all shots inside 200yd? Was the elk close and deer far? Were the deer shot outside of 400yd?

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Bull was at 330 yards, the buck in the video was 540 yards. Other deer have been between 150-400 yards. Definitely a bullet issue. The rifle is extremely accurate.

[@antdawgg9923]

140gr Gold Dots. I use 120 in 6.5CM and no tracking is required

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I never knew Speer made a Gold Dot for rifle cartridges. Thank you!

[@masone4589]

156 Berger

[@beardedrancher]

Too fast to expand doesn't really exist. Velocity should aid in expansion. That was likely a bullet failure

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That’s my understanding as well, but none of these bullets are opening up.

[@beardedrancher]

@@mountaintacticalcompany might try nosler ballistic tip or shoot for the shoulder and get that scapula to force expansion. That's what a lot of folks used to do with 243 around my area

[@slomoengineguy5547]

What is the terminal velocity on these shots? Hornady states to get consistent expansion velocity needs to be a minimum of 1800 fps to expand. I have taken a pile of animals with a 6.5 CM and know many many others who have, but they ensure the bullet is traveling 1800 fps or faster. You say too fast to expand? I’ve had some sub 100 yard shots and 500 yard shots always devastating wound channels. Did you recover any bullets or take pictures of wound channels?

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I have pictures of the wound channels. They are uninspiring. Even hitting a rib, it’s obvious the bullet did not open up.

[@redleg1013]

Switch to a 130ish class mono V0 ~ 2950

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I was looking at the 125 Hammers. Should get around 3200+ Or the 156 EOLs. But those are not monos

[@rosalindstewart7013]

If you think the bullet is going to fast to expand make up a load not as hot and give that a go mate, good luck, cheers Yogi ✌️🇦🇺

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m actually noodling on a comprehensive test to figure this out.

[@d.l.jenkins9889]

Rifle is fine. Try another projectile bro! There are a ton of posts online regarding similar results with the ELDX pills.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Will do!

[@WillardGrant]

Im using 142gr ablr nosler at 3150fps rl26 and rem 9. 1/2 mag primes

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That’s some speed!

[@WillardGrant]

I've had great luck with this load so far with game in my rifle i use a tuner with the truner im shooting around 1/2 inches 5 shot groups with out little over a inche

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

People may make fun of tuners, but they work.

[@RyanJones-i8l]

Peterson's or lapua brass 156 berger elite hunter formally known as eol on top of N565, h1000, rl26 see what your gun likes but N565 has been what mine did and I have a 24 inch proof as well.2800 to 2850 was my accuracy node but man I have no complaints

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I'd be happy with 2800-2850 with the 156 EOL. This will be the first time I've tried Vhitavuori. I like it! Thank you!

[@RyanJones-i8l]

@@mountaintacticalcompany​​⁠ I think you’ll like it it’s a very consistent powder. H1000 and rl26 you can get some pretty wild speed like 2900+ out of but I’ve found not as consistent as the N565

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’ve used a ton of H1000 in the past. This sounds like a good excuse for a good time

[@RyanJones-i8l]

@@mountaintacticalcompanydon’t forget to post your results! Also silencer central banish 30 or nomad Ti are money as well

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I'm running the Nomad Ti on my 284 Win and the Nomad L on my 28 Nosler. Great cans! I want to try the Banish 30. Everyone seems to love it as well. Other than the Canooter Valve (which I bought just for a laugh) the OSS is my least favorite can.

[@BIGFOOT-BC]

Not a good bullet, the lead core and the jacket separate. Best choices are nozzler AB , ABLR and federal terminal ascent. Very accurate bonded bullets with good expansion.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That’s exactly what is happening. Thank you for the recommendations! I need some trigger time to test them all

[@andrewowens6754]

Try different bullet, of course I know you have . Trade it for a 7 PRC and use Bergers or Hammers

[@DrKoosWes]

I live and hunt in South-Africa. Really long range shooting is not really my thing. I have ever possible bullet in my reloading room but will never again hunt with any Hornady bullet except the Interbond bullets in my stash. I have been unexpectedly surprised by Federal Fusion over the last two seasons. Mostly I use Accubond Long Range if I think it will likely be 400m and out.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

The ABLRs are like magic in my 28 Nosler. I take it you’ve had bad experiences with these bullets as well.

[@jonprice1623]

Why use a 6.5prc when there's already a 6.5-284?

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Because I’ve run many 6.5-284, prefer the straight 284, and wanted to see what the hub bub was about with the 6.5PRC

[@craigholland2274]

Barnes or nosler accubonds

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Both have been great for me in other cartridges. I shouldn’t have drank the Hornady Kool Aid

[@jeffreyd513]

147 match or 156 EOL

[@TTT-du6oj]

I think you should try some other bullets before giving up on her,as for the going too fast to expand theory that i have heard several times i really don’t think that will hold water,think about driving your truck head on into a wall, it will do a lot more damage to the truck at 70 mph than 20,so speed should increase the bullets expansion as well,good luck and hopefully you can let us know when you find that deadly combination of flat trajectory and terminal performance on game with your 6.5 prc in another video🤙

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I think I’ve narrowed it down to two different bullets. There will definitely be a follow up video!

[@TTT-du6oj]

@@mountaintacticalcompany I’ll be anxiously waiting for that one Jason👍

[@jamieparker7082]

The 156 EOL or the 140 Elites from Berger bang flop !!!!!

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That was my backup if the Bondstrike didn’t work.

[@benwright3314]

130g sierra gamechangers for me at 3150ish fps. Just don't shoot anything under 50 yards because it will make a mess! The 140g eld-m and x bullets I find either too explosive and unpredictable or struggle to expand. Nothing in the middle and completely random. Thats probably over 30 deer so I've come to the conclusion that they aint worth my time. The sierra's are the way forward and you dont lose out much BC whatsoever

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Sierras are never the wrong answer. Thank you!

[@308guy8]

It's funny how time changes things a 6.5 would have been considered a youth or female rifle years ago.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’ve always looked at it as a competition caliber. This is the first hunting rifle I’ve chambered in a 6.5

[@KMV-49]

The Eld-X is terrible. Love my Accubonds

[@clayburnham3223]

If an eldx doesn't expand your shooting from too far. Shot a small doe at 200yds with devastating performance large blood trail. Muzzle velocity was only 2600fos. Your doing something wrong

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

What am I doing wrong?

[@lmbear]

If you are having animals run off, you are either using the wrong bullet or not hitting them in the right place. DO NOT USE AN ELDX IN THAT PRC!!!!!!!! People are even having issues with them at Creedmoor speeds. Use a different bullet. The 147 ELD match bullets are even better, even though Hornady says they are a target bullet. They do damn well though. Very low drag bullet, and good enough terminal ballistics. A game bullet it was not developed as, but it works well enough as one. That rifle is built for long range shooting. Give the 147 a try. I'll bet you'll love it. If you want something with a little more controlled expansion, try the long range Accubond. That's a killer as well. Good luck with it!!! Nice rifle though, and it appears to shoot lights out. Hard to beat a good Tikka!!!

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Thank you! It’s definitely the wrong bullet. My wrist shot has been a double lung and it just pencils through.

[@mikekeretzman4757]

Lose the Hornady ELD-x. Barnes or Nosler E-Tip or Accu-bond 150-gr. Handload.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Both solid choices. Darn…. I guess I get more trigger time testing all of these, haha!!!

[@mr.mr.3301]

I want a 280ai build one day.

[@trc295]

Currently building one off of a Weatherby mark 5 action. I'm hoping for it to be my go to rifle.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Another great cartridge!

[@djl0fne]

Hornady whitetail ammo

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I haven’t seen that in 6.5PRC. I have some for the 350L

[@jasonkubichek6702]

Sorry when I said every animal I shot dies within 50 yards, I was referencing the Barnes not Hammer, I just read back my comment and it sounded confusing

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

No worries! Thank you for clarifying.

[@ColtSmith-dr7kn]

I’d Try Berger or nosler accubond 140 whichever shoots better use that. Eldx is garbage

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Check out our latest video. I tested a new bullet based on all our viewers suggestions.

[@connorgalea7400]

Nosler 142 ablr

[@kwikkwaksr]

Could be too powerful at close range, like you say too fast to expand.

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

That makes sense, but there’s also the ideology that speed aids in expansion.

[@kwikkwaksr]

@@mountaintacticalcompany but the theory that ballistic coefficients are generally higher at higher velocities, might be worth a trial on ballistic gel at higher and lower speeds? Or same Bullet from your 6.5 prc and 6.5 creedmoor with respective cartridge velocities?

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

This sounds like a fun test. If only I had some ballistic gel...

[@joshuaskipper7583]

Barnes LRX

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

Always a solid choice

[@cameronwright5042]

My 6.5 prc Barnes dropped my wy buck dead in its tracks at 300 yards!

[@mountaintacticalcompany]

I’m thinking a monolithic is the way to go