6.5 x 50mm Japanese
The 6.5 x 50mm cartridge was introduced in
1897 and served as a Japanese military cartridge through World War II. Both
the Model 1905 and its successor, the Model 99 Arisaka rifles, were chambered
for this cartridge. The 6.5 x 50mm military cartridge was loaded with a 139
grain bullet at 2500 fps in a 32" barrel.
Very little was known about this 6.5 until American troops returned home
after the big war with Arisaka rifles picked up from many battlefields. Later,
during the 1950's, the U.S. was literally flooded with surplus military rifles
from all countries as various mail order dealers imported them by the
shiploads.
No one has ever accused the Arisaka rifle of being handsome, but as several
authorities like P.O. Ackley were eventually discovered, it was probably
the strongest and safest bolt action battle rifle ever built. When subjected
to destructive testing, loads that blew apart '17 Enfield, '03 Springfield,
and '98 Mauser actions were taken in stride by the Arisaka action.
Until the 1950's, most rifles in this caliber served as wall hangers. But
when Norma ammunition with a 139 grain bullet began showing up in the U.S.,
Arisakas in the hands of hunters began to bark across the the land. Many
found the little cartridge to be far deadlier on deer than those of the .30-30
class.
Norma 6.5 x 50mm ammunition and unprimed cases are still available. Any of
the .264" bullets will work in this cartridge, but due to its relatively
small powder capacity, those weighing 120, 125, and 129 grains are best for
deer. The small powder capacity also calls for powders of medium burning
rate with H380,
H335, and H4895
doing a good job.
Source: Hodgdon Data Manual, 26th Edition
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