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I'm looking for ideas and info on building a 6.5 Grendel AR.
I'm completely unfamiliar with the cartridge. So, what length gas system is ideal? Barrel length?
Also, what are the pros and cons of the cartridge? What is it ideal for?
I currently don't have the option to reload, so should I maybe look at another cartridge?
I currently only have 5.56, Wylde and .300 BO ARs. I'd like to try something new.
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I pondered the 6.5G for a long time because of having two 6.8 SPC rifles. For me, it's just another flavor to enjoy as I personally don't find a distinct advantage of one over the other (6.8 and 6.5) for MY shooting needs and applications. BUT... with that said, I've really enjoyed shooting my first 6.5G build, which was built strictly for hunting from a tree stand using NV and an IR laser.
While I do reload, I've found PLEANTY of reasonable priced 6.5G ammo at two shops local to my travel patterns... and once I gather a sufficient supply of brass, I'll certainly reload for the rifle. Ammo in the stores has been running about $23 to $25 a box with three loads from Hornady readily available.
I'd say the cartridge has universal application... range fun banging steel at extended ranges, punching paper, and certainly for taking mid-size game such as deer and hogs.
My reading and research led me to believe that a 16" mid-length gas barrel with the original 6.5G chamber was the right way to go, and after seeing a fair deal on the EE, I made the jump. I ended up using the 16" Alexander Arms lite barrel and JP bolt (despite already having an AA marked spare bolt). The AA barrel is threaded 9/16x24 vs. the more common 5/8x24 but sourcing a FS or MB is not a problem.
I can't think of any negatives reference the 6.5G.
My rifle, which now sports a Inforce white/IR WML and Steiner OTAL: