6.5 Grendel VS 7.62x39 | 100 Yard Energy Comparison

Published on January 3, 2026
Duration: 5:10

This video provides an expert-level, data-driven comparison of the 6.5 Grendel and 7.62x39 cartridges at 100 yards. Using a LabRadar, the host demonstrates the superior velocity and energy retention of the 6.5 Grendel with 123gr SST ammunition, highlighting its advantage for ethical hunting beyond 100 yards compared to the 7.62x39. The analysis is presented with high expertise in practical ballistics testing.

Quick Summary

At 100 yards, the 6.5 Grendel with a 123gr SST bullet delivered 1241 ft-lbs of energy, while the 7.62x39 with a comparable 123gr SST bullet produced 1062 ft-lbs. The Grendel also showed better velocity retention, maintaining 2132 fps vs 1972 fps.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Test Setup
  2. 01:047.62x39 Performance Test
  3. 01:306.5 Grendel Performance Test
  4. 01:57Data Analysis and Ballistic Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 100-yard energy difference between 6.5 Grendel and 7.62x39?

At 100 yards, the 6.5 Grendel with a 123gr SST bullet delivered 1241 ft-lbs of energy. The 7.62x39 with a comparable 123gr SST bullet produced 1062 ft-lbs, indicating the Grendel retains significantly more energy downrange.

How does the velocity retention compare between 6.5 Grendel and 7.62x39 at 100 yards?

The 6.5 Grendel shows better velocity retention, maintaining 2132 fps at 100 yards from a 2304 fps muzzle velocity. The 7.62x39 dropped to 1972 fps at 100 yards from a 2254 fps muzzle velocity, demonstrating a less flat trajectory.

Which caliber is better for ethical deer hunting at 100 yards based on this test?

Based on energy retention, the 6.5 Grendel is generally considered more suitable for ethical deer hunting at 100 yards, as it exceeds the 1000 ft-lbs threshold. The 7.62x39 is close to this threshold and may drop below it shortly after 100 yards.

What equipment was used to measure the ballistic performance?

The test utilized a LabRadar chronograph, a professional device capable of accurately measuring muzzle velocity, intermediate velocities, and calculating energy retention at various distances without needing to be placed directly in line with the bullet.

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