Quote:My next rifle will surely be 6x45 build, though, it will not likely be an AR and will probably have a 20-26” barrel. These next questions are regarding the future build.
The maximum grain recommended to fit OAL standard mag is 95gr, correct?
The twist rate recommended is 1:10?
To gain the most accuracy while maintaining higher terminal ballistics out to the furthest ranges of this round, it is my assumption that my round of choice- magazine fed, is 75-95gr out of a 24-26” 1:10 twist. Your thoughts?
With all things being ideal, what velocity should I expect from a 1:10twist 24-26 barrel in various grain bullets?
What is the maximum moral range for hunting out of a 24-26” barrel in this caliber?
Max range for target?
Any other guidance, corrections, or recommended reading you can advise?
The heaviest bullets I have loaded to magazine length in an AR are 95 grain Nosler Ballistic tips at about 2475 FPS. I have also worked up loads for 75, 85, 87, and 90 grain bullets. I have found that bullets around 85 grains have the best combination of velocity, ballistic coefficient, and sectional density for medium game. My go to loads are the Barnes 85 grain TSX and Hornady 87 grain V-Max at 2750-2800 FPS through my 20 inch barrel.
I think you would be better served with a barrel in the 18-22 inch range. Barrel lengths beyond that will show diminishing returns in velocity and be less manageable in the field.
In order to decide what is maximum practical hunting range for my 6x45 I look at the minimum expansion velocity for the bullet I am using. In my case the 85 grain Barnes TSX needs a minimum of 1900 FPS for any expansion(Nosler Partition 1800 FPS). With my muzzle velocity of 2800 FPS that bullet will drop to 1900 FPS at about 300 yards. That is my maximum range. Then I consider my own abilities in shooting, range estimation, and familiarity with my scope and bullet trajectory, bullet penetration and animal size and adjust down accordingly. Thus my max practical range may be up to 300 yards, more likely less, but never more. That is how I determine my maximum practical hunting range for any cartridge when hunting deer or elk.