6.5 Creedmoor vs 308 Win: Steel Penetration Test

Published on August 24, 2022
Duration: 4:59

This guide details a steel penetration test comparing 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester cartridges. The test, conducted by a ballistics enthusiast, involved firing both calibers at various thicknesses of mild steel plates. Results indicate that .308 Winchester, with its higher kinetic energy, achieved deeper penetration into a 1/2-inch steel plate than the 6.5 Creedmoor.

Quick Summary

In a controlled steel penetration test, the .308 Winchester demonstrated superior performance over the 6.5 Creedmoor. Fired from a 24-inch barrel, the .308 Win (147gr FMJ) achieved 0.452 inches of penetration into a 1/2-inch mild steel plate. The 6.5 Creedmoor (140gr BTHP) from a 26-inch barrel penetrated 0.383 inches, correlating with the .308's higher kinetic energy output.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Methodology
  2. 00:381/4 and 3/8 Inch Steel Tests
  3. 01:261/2 Inch Steel Test
  4. 02:03Measurement Preparation
  5. 03:13Final Results and Measurements
  6. 04:03Kinetic Energy Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

Which caliber penetrates steel better, 6.5 Creedmoor or .308 Winchester?

In a test using 1/2-inch mild steel plates, the .308 Winchester achieved deeper penetration (0.452 inches) than the 6.5 Creedmoor (0.383 inches). This aligns with the .308's higher kinetic energy output in the tested loads.

What factors influence steel penetration between 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester?

Kinetic energy is a primary factor. The .308 Winchester load tested had higher muzzle velocity and energy (2629 ft-lbs) compared to the 6.5 Creedmoor load (2250 ft-lbs), contributing to its superior penetration in mild steel.

How was steel penetration measured in the 6.5 Creedmoor vs .308 Winchester test?

After firing, impact craters were prepared using an angle grinder. Penetration depth into a 1/2-inch mild steel plate was then precisely measured using digital calipers, revealing the .308 Win penetrated 0.452" and the 6.5 Creedmoor penetrated 0.383".

What ammunition was used for the 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester steel penetration test?

The test utilized Hornady Black 6.5 Creedmoor 140 gr BTHP ammunition and Norma Tactical .308 Winchester 147 gr FMJ ammunition. Both were fired from rifles with different barrel lengths.

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