6.5x57R

[osekerschan]

Looking for 6.5x57R brass. The usual sources such as Grafs or Midland do not list it. Has anybody tried to neck the plentiful 7x57R to 6.5? The specs for the 7 show the head is a few thousands bigger than the 6.5.

[mike ford]

osekerschan,
It is possible to make 6.5x57R cases from 7x57R, but as you noted, the head diameter is larger. This is because 6.5x57R is based on the M88 case, whereas the 7x57R is based on the M93 case. It would be easier to reform 8x57R cases. Z&B 6.5x57R ammo has recently been available, and is reasonably priced. A couple boxes of this ammo would result in enough fireformed cases to allow you to hunt for a very long time. At one time J&G Sales carried Z&B ammo, together with others. You might find brass with the correct headstamp at Huntington's. They carry RWS, which does have it and Norma, which may have it. Grafs might have ammo, and if so their brass is very reloadable also.
Mike

I just checked, Graf's has 6.5x57R ammo with 131gr bullets for $19.99/20 +shipping. Huntington's has Norma 8x57IRS cases for $68.98/50, and 6.5x57R RWS cases for $34.98/20 all +shipping.
Mike

[ohiochuck]

Hi!
Several years ago I posted a WTB 8X57JR brass on German & Austrian Sporting Guns @ doublegunshop.com forum
I found better prices than buying new unless that is what you want. Many once fired were RWS and other European brass.
I was happy with the deal.
Jim

[osekerschan]

Hi Mike and Jim,
Thanks for your help, it is appreciated. the problem with ammo is that I live in cumocountry, NY. Although I can get all the components shipped in live ammo can only be shipped to an FFL holder. My local shop will gladly accept the ammo but Graf's will only ship to him if he becomes a dealer and since I am his only customer who deals with Graf's, it is not worth the time and effort.

Never heard of Huntington but will contact them.

Hans

[mike ford]

osekerschan,
They were formerly RCBS, you might find them that way.
Mike

[mikev]

NEGC carries RWS. Not cheap but good stuff
Mike

[mike ford]

For my own 6.5x57R, I use RWS brass, it is great, but If I didn't have it I would be happy with other makes. The important thing is to carefully load and shoot/hunt with your gun.
Mike

[osekerschan]

6.5x57R

Thanks again for the advice, I will be sending for RWS brass from Huntington. Am currently using S&B brass from the one box of ammo I found at a gun show.

Hans

[mike ford]

If you set the dies to just "kiss" the case shoulder and anneal the necks every once in a while, your 20 S&B cases will give you good service a very long time.
Mike