20 Best 6.5 Creedmoor AR for Long-Range & Hunting

The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge has a solid reputation in long-range shooting. Hunters and competitors in high-powered rifle competitions love it. The bullet’s streamlined design allows for smooth and precise long-range firing. As a result, manufacturers now offer different types of 6.5 Creedmoor AR.

This cartridge boasts a level trajectory and outstanding accuracy. Also, it reaches speeds of up to 1,200 yards per second. Big game hunting is a no-brainer with this much power. Its high ballistic coefficient and sectional velocity make the 6.5 Creedmoor a strong round.

It’s also a popular choice for long-distance shooting competitions. The 6.5 Creedmoor is the best round for the job at hand for shooting long-range accuracy with minimal recoil.

A Quick History

Thanks to Dennis DeMille and Dave Emary, Hornady’s chief ballistician, long-range shooters may now enjoy the 6.5 Creedmoor round.

Emary’s need for a high-performance cartridge with an extended range led to creating this precise round. His goal was to create an efficient yet affordable cartridge.

Emary first based the 6.5 Creedmoor on the 300 Savage. He started using the 30 TC case and chose 6.5mm diameter bullets because of its high sectional densities and ballistic coefficients. This makes the 6.5mm diameter an ideal size because you can chamber it in a bolt-action rifle and an AR-10 semiautomatic rifle.

In 2007, Hornady began making the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge. For hunting and target practice, they developed a line of ammunition that is accurate in the field and at the range.

There was an increase in popularity of the 6.5 Creedmoor because of its remarkable qualities for long-range shooting and hunting. Because of this, manufacturers have also developed guns that can accept the Creedmoor round.

Several manufactures also provide 6.5 Creedmoor upper receiver kits for their rifles. Now, most rifles can chamber the round, and most gun owners can enjoy shooting it, too.

Now, let’s move on to the guns!

We’ll review the following best 6.5 Creedmoor AR:

The 20 Best 6.5 Creedmoor AR

Springfield Armory M1A

Specs

The Springfield Armory M1A is a gas-operated semiauto with a national match stainless steel barrel. An additional 1:8 right-hand twist makes it even more precise.

The rifle is heavy, but it comes with a soft-sided carrying bag that makes it easier to carry. The extra weight also helps reduce recoil and improve shot accuracy.

Also, you can buy it with either a regular stock or an Archangel stock, which is adjustable and flexible. It has a Garant-type safety in front of the trigger guard for additional security. The fire is set to the rear while the safe position is positioned in front of the trigger.

In addition, the rifle is equipped with national competition iron sights and a 10-round magazine. It also has a Picatinny rail so that you may quickly attach any accessories you need.

Plus, it has a 4.5-pound National match trigger, which is the best in the business. If you’re looking for an old-school rifle with a modern twist, this one is ideal.

Bergara B-14 HMR

Specs

The Bergara B-14 HMR is an adjustable long-range rifle. It features a threaded 5/8-24-inch barrel and metal protection affixed to the end of the barrel. You may also modify the cheek with a screw knob.

The rifle’s two-lug system 90-degree throw bolt has a Sako-style extractor, ensuring a smooth firing experience. With a break force of 2.75 lbs, the trigger is crisp as well. The checkering on the grips of this rifle is very excellent, providing a nonslip grip.

As an added bonus, this 6.5 Creedmoor AR is ambidextrous. So, if you’re a lefty, give this one a whirl. Using the Bergara B-14 HMR is a fantastic way to learn about long-range shooting. While it’s not perfect, this rifle boasts a high level of accuracy and reliability. It also offers a comfortable and ergonomic design. Bergara rifles are also known for their world-renowned barrels, giving them great value.

Savage Axis II XP

Specs

The next gun on our list is an upgraded version of its predecessor. The Savage Axis II XP is an excellent rifle for both novice and veteran shooters. Improved ergonomics and a redesigned stock make it a more user-friendly rifle than the earlier Savage Axis XP. The grip is rough and includes grooves where your fingertips may rest naturally. It also comes with a Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm scope.

With its smooth bolt-action mechanism, the Axis II is much like the other Savage models. It features the AccuTrigger, an adjustable pull weight between 2.5 and 6 pounds. Additionally, the AccuRelease, which is a leaf inserted into the triggers, is included.  It’s a safety feature that prohibits you from shooting until you completely cover the trigger with your finger.

The Axis II is also simple to use even while wearing gloves because its angled and textured surfaces provide a more stable grip. Excellent groupings may be achieved with this gun’s accuracy. Easy to operate and doesn’t jam. Furthermore, it offers excellent out-of-the-box performance at a very reasonable price.

Daniel Defense DD5 V4

Specs

Daniel Defense is an excellent choice for high-quality riles. High functionality, ease of use, and flexibility set the brand apart.

The DD5 V4 has a hardened 4140 steel gas block that you can easily adjust. It has a 17-4 stainless steel spinning switch treated with salt bath nitride for corrosion resistance.

The DD5 V4 also has a custom 18-inch cold hammer-forged barrel. The barrel is chrome-lined for long-term durability and simplicity of maintenance. In addition, the rifle’s materials are of the finest quality possible. It also has a VAR stainless steel bolt and a 1:8 barrel twist, making it ideal for long-range shooting. The pistol grip and buttstock are made of glass-filled polymer for added comfort.

It also comes with a Magpul PMags 20-round magazine, allowing you to use any SR-25 magazine with this gun. The DD5 V4 is a quality rifle with various features, including a military-grade trigger. As long as you take good care of it, you’ll have a great time shooting with it. You can’t get a rifle of this kind for less.

Tikka T3x Tactical Compact Rifle

Specs

The Tikka T3x boasts a cold-hammer-forged 24-inch barrel in a versatile rifle. This precision-engineered rifle has components machined from steel and aluminum. It features a ceramic coating on its bolt shaft, which looks like glass and is built of high-quality materials.

It also features a polymer substance that performs a fantastic job of absorbing vibration when fired. This gun’s trigger is also quite responsive, allowing you to fire at high rates of speed.

The Tikka T3x is also very easy to shoot. Accuracy is high, yet recoil is minimal. Overall, it’s light, precise, and operates well.

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Ruger Hawkeye Long-Range Target

Specs

Ruger’s precision rifle boosted long-range shooting to a new level. We also have the Ruger Precision Rifle in this list, but let’s talk about the Hawkeye first. Rugged and equipped with a muzzle brake, the Ruger Hawkeye Long-Range Target looks military.

You can mistake it for a midrange sniper rifle, which can also work as it’s built for target shooting. Although, that’s not Ruger’s target market for this gun.

Hawkeye sports an adjustable two-tone laminated wood target stock with brown epoxy paint and a matte finish. Also, it sports a thick recoil pad on the butt of this rifle where you can adjust the length of pull.

Additionally, this 6.5 Creedmoor AR has a single-piece durable bolt design made of stainless steel. It also has a control round feed claw extractor for positive extraction during its cycle.

The Ruger Hawkeye has a nonrotating Mauser-style regulated round feed extractor for a smooth cycle. Its barrel features a thread protector cover and is suppressor-ready with a 5/8-inch-24 thread pattern.

Winchester XPR Hunter

Specs

The Winchester is a slick, angular bolt gun. This weapon has a massive tubular receiver with a small ejection hole, a big three-lug bolt, and a push feed bolt with an ejector.

Winchester coated the push-feed bolt with electroless nickel and Teflon, so it slips easily in the receiver. Additionally, it has a central control arrangement and is ambidextrous. It also has a great trigger, a short 60-degree lift, and is rustproof.

Its two-position safety allows you to discharge the rifle while the trigger is locked away from the seat. It features a single-stack, three-round magazine. Additionally, the magazine can withstand high temperatures. As a result, you can fire this beast even in sub-zero conditions. The rifle isn’t complete without a thumb safety: back for safe and forward for firing. The one-piece bolt and the integrated stock cannot be swapped.

The XPR Hunter comes with two magazine boxes that you can remove and replace. Powered by a 6.5 Creedmoor, the magazine can contain three rounds of ammunition. It is sandpaper-like on the stock forend and grip to make grips more comfortable to hold. It also has a rubber recoil pad that provides a more pleasant shooting experience by allowing the comb to be pulled away from the shooter’s face. You can also obtain a suppressor-ready rifle with a threaded muzzle for a few dollars.

The XPR Hunter’s precision, especially when using 6.5 Creedmoor rounds, makes it a lethal weapon.

Browning X-Bolt

Specs

Browning’s X-Bolt is built to the same high standards as the company’s other products. Bolt-unlock bottom and tang-mounted two-position safety complete this weapon. Using the tang safety, you may quickly and quietly release the safety.

It has a high-quality plastic rotating magazine in addition to its safety and bolt. It’s tight and doesn’t move about. A shorter and quicker 60-degree bolt throw is another benefit. Also, it has a feather trigger that is comfortable to use and breaks cleanly. The flat trigger face provides better control for tighter groupings and enhanced consistency.

With the X-Bolt, you may lift more than 2 inches with a comb that points upward. The forend and pistol grip of the stock include conventional diamond checkering, as does the rest of the firearm. A Browning influx technology recoil pad is included in the stock. Also, the reaction is deflected away from the shooter by a skeleton built into the weapon. Plus, this rifle features Browning’s proprietary lapping process.

Overall, the X-Bolt 6.5 Creedmoor AR is an excellent performer. It works wonderfully and is consistently precise in its operation. Shooting will also be a breeze.

Ruger American Predator

Specs

The Ruger American Predator is a rifle with a heavyweight barrel that’s threaded for a suppressor or muzzle brake use. In addition, Ruger created the Predator for coyotes and hunting other varmints. The stock of this rifle is plastic-molded and has a thin profile.

The Predator’s comb has a shorter shape style instead of an elevated design. It also has a squishy rubber recoil pad that helps remove recoil away from the shooter. In addition, it has a pistol grip with raised textures for the gripping surface. Its magazine is flush-fit that holds four 6.5 Creedmoor rounds.

Using the Predator is easy as it has a simple system. It has two-position safety wherein safe mode, you can still cycle the bolt to remove a round from the chamber while keeping the rifle safe.

The trigger is adjustable and offers a crisp release with a user-adjustable pull weight between 3 to 5 pounds. However, one downside of this rifle is that the barrel is thin, causing the gun to heat faster.

Despite its downside, the overall feel of the Ruger American Predator feels like a powerful, lightweight hunting rifle. It’s accurate, and the bolt feeds smoothly from the magazine.

Ruger Precision Rifle

Specs

As soon as Ruger introduced the Ruger Precision Rifle (RPR), the internet was abuzz. It weighs a hefty 10.7 pounds, but its 6.5 Creedmoor caliber ensures pinpoint accuracy even at great distances.  Precision machined from 4140 chrome-moly steel, the upper receiver housing a robust three-lug bolt and is pre-hardened for additional strength. Another feature is its cold hammer forged 4140 chrome-moly barrel equipped with 5R rifling. In addition, a Samson KeyMod rail floats above it for extra protection from dust and other foreign objects.

The smooth movement of the RPR is complemented by its compact 70-degree throw. It also has a nice, crisp break on the trigger. In addition, the toe section of the buttstock may be readily grasped offhand, enabling the rifle to be quickly secured to your shoulder. Most shooters will find that the buttstock has adequate length-of-pull (LOP) adjustability and is big enough to minimize recoil. You can simply adjust the LOP and comb height by utilizing the cam-style fast release.

Stowing the weapon away has never been easier, thanks to the buttstock’s built-in QD sling attachment. Ruger also included two Magpul 10-round magazines with the RPR. This weapon performs well even when shot precisely from a bench. It’s also simple to put together, take apart, and keep clean.

Smith & Wesson M&P 10

Specs

The vast majority of 6.5 Creedmoor rifles are bolt-action models. Smith & Wesson, on the other hand, has developed a gun capable of firing this precise round. Semiautomatic M&P 10 is a gas-powered pistol that reduces recoil. It’s also threaded to enable the attachment of muzzle brakes and suppressors.

The magazine catch, bolt catch, and safety are all ambidextrous. You’ll also note that the gas block is more forward than on a standard AR rifle. It was M&P’s goal to allow the hot gas cloud more time to cool before it entered the gas tube by placing the gas port farther down the barrel. As a consequence, shooting is smoother, and the recoil is more controlled.

An oversized trigger guard on this 6.5 Creedmoor AR allows for a comfortable shooting experience. As a result, heavy gloves are not a problem while using this tool. The trigger is also very clean and sharp. Aside from recoil management, the rifle’s ergonomics are also great. When compared to a standard bolt-action Creedmoor rifle, it has less kick. Overall, the M&P 10 is accurate and an excellent option for anyone looking to become competitive with their target practice.

Sako S20

Specs

Next is a hybrid rifle used for both hunting and precise shooting. Sako designed the S20 with an internal aluminum chassis structure in mind. In addition, it has a high degree of elasticity and maintains the recoil parallel to the barrel. In addition, the weapon is composed of aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it lightweight and durable. With a stainless steel bolt housing a three-lug system instead of two, the S20 is more secure than its predecessor.

The cold-hammer-forged barrel of the Sako S20 is match quality. A machined Picatinny rail may be seen on top of the action. It also has a one-piece aluminum and steel mount that you can clamp on the front and back. It also has a pistol grip handle that is devoid of tension and an adjustable butt cushion.

The S20 comes with an optional monopod that you can attach to the back of the device. In addition to providing more stability, it is also effortless to modify in height. When not in use, you may simply fold it up.

To top it all off, this hybrid rifle’s Cerakote coating makes it ideal for hunting and weather conditions alike. Its ergonomics are flawless, its accuracy is unwavering, and its bolt action is a thrill to use.

Mossberg MVP Precision

Specs

This precision rifle is equipped with an aluminum chassis that was purpose-built for it. This chassis offers stability, which aids in precision. Also, its straight-back form helps decrease recoil and muzzle rise. An additional 5R button-rifled carbon steel barrel with a 1:18 right-hand twist completes the MVP. The barrel is threaded in 5/8-24 TPI and comes with a thread protector.

Aside from its construction, the MVP is a great bench weapon. It also has a smooth, fast, and functional bolt. It includes a lightning bolt action (LBA) trigger that allows you to vary the break from 3 to 7 pounds, making it a versatile weapon. With its 7-inch Picatinny rail, you may also attach optics and other accessories. Even with the 6.5 Creedmoor round, the Mossberg MVP is easy to use and has minimal recoil.

POF Revolution

Specs

For those who don’t know, POF means Patriot Ordnance Factory. Designed to resemble the AR-15 platform, the rifle features a 4159 stainless steel nitride-coated fluted barrel.  Additionally, it incorporates a three-baffle muzzle brake to minimize recoil. It also has a 3-inch-long unique long barrel nut that seals the barrel and works as a heat sink. The heat sink on this rifle is a remarkable feature since it delivers more heat dissipation than a regular MIL-Spec.

Many parts of this 6.5 Creedmoor AR may be swapped out to suit your own preferences. The POF makes use of a basic gas system, which includes a gas block, gas plug, piston, and working rod. Also, the upper receiver is reinforced by a 14.5-inch free-floating monolithic handguard system that surrounds the barrel. The magazine well is flared, and the bolt catch button is ambidextrous, allowing for speedier reloads.

Using the controls of the POF Revolution is a breeze because of its well-organized layout. As a result, it is more convenient to operate than a standard AR-10 rifle. Its overall qualities, including a well-balanced weight, gas system, and efficient muzzle brake, make the POF smooth, accurate, and pleasant to use.

KAC SR-25 (With 6.5 Creedmoor M-Lok Upper Receiver)

Specs

The Knights Armament Company (KAC) specializes in making affordable AR-15 rifles. Since its inception, KAC has focused on producing equipment for the armed services’ elite special operations troops. Later, the founder shifted his business focus and built its first factory in Titusville to produce guns. With years of military supply, they know what to look for in an effective weapon.

The SR-25 also differs from a traditional AR rifle in several ways. It’s an AR-10 reimagined with M16A2 styling. For dependable tactical usage, it’s incredibly precise and meets military specifications for precision.

For both long and short-range shooting, the KAC SR-25 semiautomatic pistol is a great choice. Direct impingement and rotating bolt action are two of the features of this semiautomatic marksman rifle. You can use it with any hand since it has an ambidextrous bolt, selector, and magazine releases.

There’s a 7.62 flash suppressor in there for added security, too. The locking lugs are fully rounded to guarantee that they will survive for a long time as well. The KAC SR-25 may also be readily customized since most of its components are compatible with AR-15 and M16 parts.

Now, before shooting the KAC SR-25 in 6.5 Creedmoor, you need to get the upper receiver. The SR-25 and the M-Lok upper receiver kit are both pricey. There is no need to acquire an upper receiver kit with the KAC SR-25, making it an excellent option for current SR-25 users. It will be more expensive if you do not have an SR-25, so plan accordingly. The KAC SR-25 chambered in a 6.5 Creedmoor rifle provides excellent long-range shooting. If you’re serious about precision shooting, then this rifle is an ideal option.

DPMS Oracle AR-15

Specs

Guns and accessories manufactured by DPMS are popular in the United States. With that said, the DPMS Oracle is a robust and dependable weapon that is easy to use. The controls are appropriately laid out, and the design is ergonomic. Additionally, the carbine-length barrel, direct impingement gas system, and A2 flash hider make shooting simple. It also has a 16-inch barrel made of 4140 chrome-moly. Along with that, it includes a 1:19 barrel twist and an 8620 steel bolt carrier that’s made of high-quality material.

It’s possible to use this rifle with a 6.5 Creedmoor-caliber upper receiver or barrel. It’s an excellent AR for those just getting started since it’s simple to use and delivers fantastic results right out of the box.

The DPMS Oracle has a smooth matte finish. Therefore, it’s easy to clean. However, it gets dirty pretty fast. You need to clean it more and do more maintenance with this rifle. Take note that the handguard gets hot after firing a few shots. The Oracle has remarkable long and short-range performances. Hence, it’s easy to handle and is an excellent choice for hunters.

LMT L129A1 MWS

Specs

The LMT firm designed AR-style rifles that were deployed to defend the Olympics by Royal Air Force servicemen. At long ranges, the L129A1 from LMT is quite accurate. It also includes a monolithic upper receiver for the Modular Weapon System (MWS) with a QD barrel system secured in place by two Torx locking screws and a barrel nut. Simply remove the screws to adjust the barrel’s length and caliber as necessary.

The stainless steel barrel has a chrome-lined bore. An FDE rail cover, free-floating quad rail handguard, and a quick detach sling loop are all included with the rifle. You also receive an adjustable bipod and a fold-down foregrip in the box. Flip-up iron sights are also included as a backup for your LMT rifle.

The L129A1 uses a direct impingement operation. The modular weapon system (MWS) of the LMT is well-known for producing incredible weaponry. Shooting long distances with this rifle will be a breeze with the 6.5 Creedmoor round installed in the chamber. Because of its unmatched dependability and precision, you may never wonder why it’s dubbed the sharpshooter.

Armalite Super SASS Gen II

Specs

The Super SASS or semiautomatic sniper system gives the best characteristics for an AR-10 rifle. It features an ambidextrous safety and uses a modified M14 magazine instead of the standard AR-10 and SR-25 magazines. In addition, the stock is a Magpie PRS, which is a high-quality stock for AR rifles. It also includes a free-floating handguard with Quad MIL-STD 1913 rails.

Super SASS has a ceramic-coated stainless steel barrel that is another outstanding feature. This weapon is also suppressor-ready. To utilize it suppressed or unsuppressed, you just activate or release the gas valve.

Precision Reflex Company’s gas buster charging handle is also part of the package. If you’re using a suppressor, this function prevents gas from re-entering the shooter’s face. Armalite’s three rail protectors provide protection while firing offhand. Armalite Super SASS also has a bipod with a lever mount attachment and polished stainless steel low-mass bolt carrier group. It also has an improved bolt, a two-stage trigger, and its sturdy bolt catch, among other characteristics. Last but not least, Armalite equips the Super SASS with an “O” ring made of rubber to bolster the extractor spring.

In the packaging, the Super SASS promises a 1 MOA accuracy. Furthermore, it is a semiautomatic rifle that is both dependable and accurate.

PSA Gen 3 PA-10

Specs

In terms of affordability, the PSA PA-10 is an excellent rifle. The pieces are interchangeable, so you may tailor the design to suit your needs. The PSA PA-10 has a 15-inch aluminum handguard with M-Lok slots at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. On both sides of the rifle, there is a top rail and a QD mount.

This 6.5 Creedmoor AR also has a two-stage nickel boron trigger. It features a five-position adjustable gas block. The PA-10’s barrel is a 415R stainless steel with a 1:10 twist by PSA, making it very robust. A 7075 T6 aluminum lower receiver and buffer tube round out the package. In addition, the bolt is subjected to magnetic particle testing (MPI).

Also, the handguard has anti-slip and anti-rotation technology. You can also get a 6.5 Creedmoor upper to get two calibers in one rifle.

Sig 716 G2 DMR

Specs

For many years, the Sig Sauer 716 has been available for purchase on the open market. The brand manufactures in the United States, and they made its 716 heavier to handle heavier cartridges. Sig 716 also contains a gas system that you can set in four different positions. It’s also left-handed friendly, thanks to the two-sided safety and an extra magazine release button.

The Dural handguard on the Sig 716 G2 DMR comes with a free-floating barrel and a short Quad Rail rail. Additionally, this same weapon’s hammer-forged barrel has a 1:10 barrel twist. It also includes mechanical flip-up sights that you can remove, two rear aperture sight plates, and windage adjustment. A screwdriver is all you’ll need to make the necessary alterations.

Each side of the rifle, handguard, and the stock has two sling straps. In addition, the buttstock may be set in six different settings for optimal comfort. It also has a compartment for batteries and other tiny items.

Its ergonomic design makes the Sig Sauer 716 a pleasure to shoot. It’s also accurate to within 1.5 minutes of angle (MOA). In addition, its castle nut is anchored correctly, so it won’t come loose. The main drawback is that this gun cannot be personalized in any way.

Wrap Up

And that concludes our list of the best 6.5 Creedmoor rifles. The 6.5 Creedmoor is a fun cartridge to shoot in practicing long-range and competition shooting. It also has exceptional ballistics and accuracy.

With these in mind, always remember that any of the rifles we’ve mentioned above are great choices. Each rifle has their own advantages and each has their own purpose. So, depending on your objectives, choose the best Creedmoor rifle according to your needs. 

Related Readings

• Best 6.5 Creedmoor Muzzle Brakes
• Best 6.5 Creedmoor Lowers
• The Best 6.5 Creedmoor Uppers
• Best 6.5 Creedmoor Bolt Carrier Groups (BCG)

Best 6.5 Creedmoor AR Comparison Table