6.5 Grendel Ballistics
Long-range AR-15 cartridge developed by Alexander Arms. Superior ballistic coefficients give it an effective range past 800 yards. Requires a dedicated bolt and magazines. Excellent for medium game hunting and precision shooting.
Cartridge Specifications
Common Bullet Weights and Types
Muzzle Velocity by Barrel Length
Muzzle Energy by Barrel Length
Bullet Drop Table
Values in inches. 16-inch barrel reference data. Positive values rise above line of sight, negative values fall below.
| Load | Zero | 100 yd | 200 yd | 300 yd | 400 yd | 500 yd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90 gr V-MAX | 200 yd | 1.5 | 0 | -7 | -20.5 | -42 |
| 123 gr ELD-M | 200 yd | 1.7 | 0 | -7 | -20 | -39.5 |
| 130 gr OTM | 200 yd | 1.9 | 0 | -7.5 | -21.5 | -42.5 |
Wind Drift at 10 mph Crosswind
Drift in inches at a 90 degree full value wind. Estimated from muzzle velocity and G1 ballistic coefficient.
| Load | 100 yd | 200 yd | 300 yd | 400 yd | 500 yd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90 gr V-MAX | 6.2 | 12.5 | 18.7 | 24.9 | 31.2 |
| 123 gr ELD-M | 3.7 | 7.3 | 11 | 14.7 | 18.3 |
| 130 gr OTM | 3.5 | 7 | 10.5 | 14 | 17.5 |
Effective Range by Application
Barrel Twist Rate Recommendations
Published Load Data
| Weight | Type | Barrel | MV (fps) | ME (ft-lb) | BC (G1) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90 gr | V-MAX | 16 in | 2,750 | 1,511 | 0.31 | Hornady 6.5 Grendel 90gr V-MAX published load data |
| 90 gr | V-MAX | 18 in | 2,810 | 1,578 | 0.31 | Hornady 6.5 Grendel 90gr V-MAX published load data |
| 90 gr | V-MAX | 20 in | 2,870 | 1,646 | 0.31 | Hornady 6.5 Grendel 90gr V-MAX published load data |
| 123 gr | ELD-M | 16 in | 2,480 | 1,679 | 0.506 | Hornady 6.5 Grendel 123gr ELD Match published load data |
| 123 gr | ELD-M | 18 in | 2,540 | 1,762 | 0.506 | Hornady 6.5 Grendel 123gr ELD Match published load data |
| 123 gr | ELD-M | 20 in | 2,590 | 1,832 | 0.506 | Hornady 6.5 Grendel 123gr ELD Match published load data |
| 130 gr | OTM | 16 in | 2,350 | 1,594 | 0.53 | Wolf/Lapua 6.5 Grendel 130gr OTM published specs |
| 130 gr | OTM | 18 in | 2,410 | 1,676 | 0.53 | Wolf/Lapua 6.5 Grendel 130gr OTM published specs |
| 130 gr | OTM | 20 in | 2,460 | 1,747 | 0.53 | Wolf/Lapua 6.5 Grendel 130gr OTM published specs |
Data Disclaimer
Ballistic data is approximate and varies by ammunition lot, barrel condition, altitude, and temperature. Data sourced from Hornady 6.5 Grendel 90gr V-MAX published load data; Hornady 6.5 Grendel 123gr ELD Match published load data; Wolf/Lapua 6.5 Grendel 130gr OTM published specs. Always confirm zero and trajectory with your specific firearm.
Pick the right barrel
Twist rate should match the bullet weights you plan to shoot. See barrel steel grades, profiles, chamber types, and twist rate guidance on the barrel specs page, then jump into the builder to filter barrels chambered in 6.5 Grendel.