Master reference map for the 6.5 Creedmoor Rifle Master Compendium. Chapters focus on how the cartridge behaves inside real rifles: actions, barrels, recoil, optics, failures, and the future of the platform.
CHAPTER 1 — Origins of the 6.5 Creedmoor Rifle Platform
- Context in precision rifle evolution
- Pre-Creedmoor: .308 dominance and Palma influence
- Role of competition shooters (early 2000s NLR & PRS precursors)
CHAPTER 2 — Why the 6.5 Creedmoor Works in a Rifle
- Ballistics–rifle interaction
- Barrel harmonics and cartridge geometry
- Pressure curves and bolt thrust
- Why factory rifles can shoot “match grade” with Creedmoor
CHAPTER 3 — Action Types and Platform Families
- Bolt guns (Tikka, Savage, Bergara, Ruger Precision Rifle, Christensen, etc.)
- Semi-auto platforms (AR-10 pattern)
- Chassis rifles vs traditional stocks
- Receiver metallurgy and design tolerances
CHAPTER 4 — Barrel Science
- Twist rates (1:8 vs 1:7.5 and beyond)
- Lands & grooves, cut vs button rifling
- Throat life and erosion patterns
- Optimum barrel lengths (18–26″)
CHAPTER 5 — Ammunition Compatibility and Bullet Behavior
- VLD, ELD-M, ELD-X, OTM, bonded, copper monolithic
- Stability calculations and bullet length
- Factory load accuracy differences
- How bullet design affects real-world precision
CHAPTER 6 — Recoil Characteristics and Shooter Interface
- Why Creedmoor feels “easy” behind the gun
- Recoil impulse vs muzzle rise
- Muzzle brake vs suppressor behavior
- Stock geometry, comb height, and ergonomics
CHAPTER 7 — Optics Pairing and Long-Range Dope
- FFP vs SFP in Creedmoor roles
- MIL vs MOA mechanics
- Zeroing philosophy (100 vs 200 yards)
- Dialing vs holdover doctrines
- Practical dope tables (factory and public-data handloads)
CHAPTER 8 — Real-World Applications
- Benchrest and paper groups
- PRS and field-style competitions
- Steel/field matches
- Backcountry hunting (deer, pronghorn, similar game)
- Law enforcement and military evaluation contexts
CHAPTER 9 — Common Failure Points & Diagnostics
- Wandering zero and mounting issues
- Throat burnout and accuracy decay
- Action screw torque and bedding problems
- Gas system tuning in AR-10 platforms
- Magazine feed geometry and reliability issues
CHAPTER 10 — The Future of the Creedmoor Rifle Platform
- Successors and siblings (6.5 PRC, 6mm Creedmoor, 6 GT)
- Where 6.5 Creedmoor remains dominant
- Industry longevity and support forecast
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