Thompson/Center Arms Venture 6.5x284 Norma Long Action Weathershield Fluted Barrel Bolt Rifle 5396

Based on the rebated-rim 284 Winchester case necked down, the 6.5x284 Norma was one of the early wildcat cartridges that harnessed the 6.5mm's downrange performance into a short-action cartridge intended for long-range competition. In 2002 Norma adopted and standardized it as the 6.5x284 Norma, with current factory loadings from both Norma and Black Hills. With a 140-grain bullet at 2952 fps the 6.5x284 Norma exceeds both the 6.5 Creedmoor and 260 Remington in velocity. Although it has not become as popular as the Creedmoor it is a proven performer in long-range competition and, with its higher velocity and thus greater energy it offers slightly more range on medium-sized big game. — Craig Boddington