6.5 Grendel VS 7.62x39 | 100 Yard Energy Comparison

Published on January 3, 2026
Duration: 5:10

This video provides a detailed ballistic comparison between 6.5 Grendel and 7.62x39 cartridges, focusing on energy and velocity retention at 100 yards. Expert analysis highlights the 6.5 Grendel's superior downrange performance due to its higher ballistic coefficient, making it a more effective choice for hunting at extended ranges compared to the 7.62x39.

Quick Summary

The 6.5 Grendel outperforms the 7.62x39 in energy retention at 100 yards, boasting 1241 ft-lbs compared to the 7.62x39's 1062 ft-lbs, using identical 123gr SST bullets. The Grendel also maintains velocity better, making it a more effective choice for hunting at extended ranges.

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

How does the 6.5 Grendel compare to the 7.62x39 in terms of energy at 100 yards?

At 100 yards, the 6.5 Grendel with a 123gr SST bullet retains approximately 1241 ft-lbs of energy. The 7.62x39, using the same bullet weight and type, retains about 1062 ft-lbs of energy.

Which cartridge maintains velocity better over distance, 6.5 Grendel or 7.62x39?

The 6.5 Grendel maintains velocity better. It started at 2304 fps and was still at 2132 fps at 100 yards. The 7.62x39 started at 2254 fps and dropped to 1972 fps at 100 yards, showing a more significant velocity loss.

Is 7.62x39 sufficient for deer hunting at 100 yards?

Based on this test, the 7.62x39 retained 1062 ft-lbs of energy at 100 yards. This is close to, or potentially below, the 1000 ft-lbs threshold often considered necessary for ethical deer hunting, suggesting its effectiveness diminishes rapidly beyond this range.

What equipment was used to measure the ballistics in the 6.5 Grendel vs 7.62x39 comparison?

The comparison utilized a LabRadar chronograph to accurately measure muzzle velocity and energy at various distances, including the muzzle, 50 yards, and 100 yards.

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