[lonestarhal]

I recently started reloading my two Dutch Mannlicher 6.5X53R Rifles using RCBS dies, and Hornady 160 Grain bullets. After slugging the Bore I found the bore/Rifling to be .256"X.268". I started using the standard .263 Bullet but was not getting the Accuracy. I ordered Hornady carcano bullets (.267") and also had RCBS make a larger expander ball for the Larger Bullet. The Sizing went fine, and when I tried seating the Larger bullet to the same length as the smaller one the bolt would not close nor would the round chamber properly. I backed off on the COL and found that the Bolt would close .150" less in length. There is a restriction in the free-bore space between the end of the Cartridge case and the rifling. With the smaller bullet, I can feel a slight resistance using the Hornady Cartridge Length Gage and the smaller bullet, but it allows me to seat the bullet to 3.050" without any problems. The Larger carcano bullet stops at 2.850" and it like hitting a wall. I am very concerned about firing the carcano bullet in my rifles.

Is it possible that the restriction was designed as a centering device for the long narrow small bullet? It is the exact same for both rifles and both bores slug the same also. They both have large free-bore space even when extending the .263 bullet as far as practical.

Is there a remedy for this restriction so I can use both bullets, but preferably the larger one?

 

[DocAV]

The Bullets for the 6,5 Dutch are different in profile to those of the 6,5 Carcano ( The original Military Bullets, that is.).

The same problem will occur if you try to use Ex Mil FMJ Carcano Bullets in a Dutch chamber.
So using Hornady .267/8 diameter bullets, you will have "fit" problems.

Also, take note that the Dutch 6,5 uses a .263 diameter bullet...it does not Need a .268 Diameter, irrespective of the groove measurement. The rifling was designed for an Open-base FMJ, which base would upset to seal the grooves, whilst the main part of the cylindrical bullet would lightly engrave on the rifling. ( Austrian "Base Upset Obturation" system for Long Cylindrical Bullets, to reduce Metal fouling, Friction, and Gas windage).



If you wish to use a spitzer ( 140 grain) then choose a .264 diameter.; but if you want to use 160 RN, then I would say either a Norma 156gn RNSP Cylindrical, (Base is concave, and will "Upset") or use cast lead.

I have used Prvi FMJ 6,5 ( 140-ish), and they are both accurate and seat well.

One other matter: How thick are your case necks? I take it you have .303 cases reformed to 6,5mmDutch? THis may also cause some poblenms if you are using .267 Carcano Bulloets..
I have loaded 6,5 Dutch for over 40 years, using .303 cases formed and trimmed,( Military and Civilian cases), as well as original Dutch Berdan cases...NO problems using either Norma RNs or Original Dutch projectiles in either source of Brass.

Doc AV

 

[ireload2]

I reload and shoot this caliber in these rifles. Just for reference the chamber necks in my rifles are .299 diameter and easily clear with .264 bullets using case made from Winchester, Remington and Federal brass. There have been a number of posts where shooters have blown primers using the Hornady Carcano bullets in Carcanos. I would not recommend them in a M95 Dutch.

 

[revelation1911]

Also, take note that the Dutch 6,5 uses a .263 diameter bullet...it does not Need a .268 Diameter, irrespective of the groove measurement. The rifling was designed for an Open-base FMJ, which base would upset to seal the grooves, whilst the main part of the cylindrical bullet would lightly engrave on the rifling. ( Austrian "Base Upset Obturation" system for Long Cylindrical Bullets, to reduce Metal fouling, Friction, and Gas windage).



If you wish to use a spitzer ( 140 grain) then choose a .264 diameter.; but if you want to use 160 RN, then I would say either a Norma 156gn RNSP Cylindrical, (Base is concave, and will "Upset") or use cast lead.

I have used Prvi FMJ 6,5 ( 140-ish), and they are both accurate and seat well.


Doc AV

I have several 6.5 dutch caliber rifles/carbines and with some of them the old surplus round will nearly
"fall in" the muzzle end of the barrel. Not all of my dutch caliber seem to have the same muzzle diameter?

All seem to have sufficent rifling left was there differences in barrels on these rifles.

I did pull the bullet on one of the dutch rounds and it won't just drop through the bore but will go nearly flush with muzzle.