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6.5 Grendel Load Data & Ballistics Calculator

Estimate chamber pressure and muzzle velocity for the 6.5 Grendel with the free, in-browser MyLoads internal ballistics simulator. The figures below are illustrative estimates from a physics model — not a recommended load. Always cross-check a current published loading manual.

6.5 Grendel reference

Maximum average pressure (MAP)52,000 psi
Nominal case capacity35.0 gr H₂O
Groove / bullet diameter0.264 in (6.71 mm)

Example simulation illustrative

Bullet
Sierra 6.5mm 264 Caliber (.264) 123 gr HPBT-CN MatchKing
Powder
IMR 8208 XBR
Charge
25 gr
Barrel
24 in

Muzzle velocity

2,288 fps

Peak chamber pressure (interval, ±10% burn rate)

33,029 – 39,302 – 46,082 psi

nominal is 76% MAP (52,000 psi)

The simulator isn't optimized for this cartridge yet and may read pressure low.

Illustrative example — every figure is an estimate; always confirm your load against a current published manual before loading.

Popular 6.5 Grendel powders

Powders and bullets handloaders commonly use for the 6.5 Grendel, drawn from public discussion and listed most common first. They appear as the Popular group in the calculator's pickers. This is not a load recommendation — always check your load against a current published manual.

Popular 6.5 Grendel bullets

Use MyLoads as a 6.5 Grendel velocity and pressure calculator: it estimates muzzle velocity, muzzle energy and the full chamber-pressure curve for your own powder, charge and barrel length, compared against the reference facts above.

Open the 6.5 Grendel in the MyLoads calculator →

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