The chart below is computed using the Long Range Science ballistic calculator for some common 6.5 Creedmoor factory loads. These are for comparison with preset environmental data. Select a load to see its drop and wind table.

6.5 Creedmoor Drop Chart

Drop and wind are come-up corrections (dial/hold up). Wind is a 10 mph full-value crosswind via lag-time approximation. Values assume a 100 yd zero and standard atmosphere.

These numbers are a factory-load reference, not verified DOPE. Differences in your actual muzzle velocity, barrel length, and local air density shift the solution. Confirm your true velocity with a chronograph and validate on target before trusting any chart downrange.

The Federal +Peak loads use a steel Peak Alloy case loaded to 80,000 psi, versus 65,000 psi for standard 6.5 Creedmoor. Velocities shown are Federal's published figures from a 24 inch barrel. Check with your rifle's manufacturer before shooting them.

Key Takeaways

• Supersonic to ~1,428 yards: With the Hornady 140 gr ELD Match, it enters the transonic zone there in standard atmosphere; cold or high-altitude air pushes it farther.
• Holds 1,000+ ft·lb to ~735 yards: With the Hornady 140 gr ELD Match, a common energy threshold for larger game.
• ~2.9 MIL / 9.9 MOA at 500 yards, ~8.7 MIL / 29.8 MOA at 1,000.
• ~1.8 MIL of wind at 1,000 yards in a 10 mph full-value crosswind. Wind is your dominant error source at distance.
• The 147 gr ELD Match beats the lighter Hornady loads downrange: Its 0.351 G7 BC gives about 8.5 MIL of drop and 1.7 MIL of wind at 1,000 yards, versus 8.7 and 1.8 for the 140 gr, despite a slightly lower muzzle velocity.
• The 120 gr ELD Match is the fastest Hornady load but sheds speed quickly: At 2,910 fps it starts well ahead, but its low BC (0.245) leaves it at about 1,324 fps and 2.4 MIL of wind by 1,000 yards.
• The Federal +Peak loads are the flattest here: The 130 gr Terminal Ascent at 3,100 fps drops about 7.2 MIL at 1,000 yards, and the 156 gr Berger Elite Hunter holds 1,679 fps with about 1.6 MIL of wind, the least of any load on this page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a 6.5 Creedmoor drop at 1,000 yards?

With the Hornady 140 gr ELD Match at 2,710 fps and a 100-yard zero, roughly 8.7 MIL (29.8 MOA), about 313 inches, under standard conditions. The 147 gr ELD Match at 2,695 fps drops about 8.5 MIL (29.1 MOA), and the faster Federal +Peak 130 gr Terminal Ascent at 3,100 fps drops about 7.2 MIL (24.6 MOA). Your exact drop depends on your true muzzle velocity and air density, so true your data before relying on it at distance.

Is the 6.5 Creedmoor supersonic at 1,000 yards?

With the 140 gr ELD Match at 2,710 fps it retains about 1511 fps at 1,000 yards and stays supersonic to roughly 1,428 yards. Colder, higher-altitude air extends that range further; hot low-elevation air shortens it.

Which 6.5 Creedmoor factory load shoots flattest?

The Federal +Peak loads, because of their higher muzzle velocity. The 130 gr Terminal Ascent has the least drop at 1,000 yards (about 7.2 MIL), and the 156 gr Berger Elite Hunter has the least wind drift (about 1.6 MIL) and retains 1,679 fps. Among the Hornady loads, the 147 gr ELD Match has the highest BC (0.351 G7) and holds more velocity and less wind drift past 500 yards. The 120 gr ELD Match is flatter inside about 300 yards, but gives that up at distance.

What is Federal +Peak 6.5 Creedmoor ammo?

Federal +Peak is a 6.5 Creedmoor load built on a custom steel alloy case from Federal. The stronger case allows the cartridge to handle higher pressures in some rifle platforms, which leads to higher velocities than traditional 6.5 Creedmoor, comparable to 6.5 PRC. Check with your rifle's manufacturer before shooting it.

Should I use G1 or G7 BC for the 6.5 Creedmoor?

Use G7 for modern boat-tail match bullets like these. The G7 standard projectile matches their shape, so the drag curve tracks reality better across the trajectory. Each load above uses the G7 BC published by its manufacturer.

What zero does this 6.5 Creedmoor chart assume?

A 100-yard zero with 1.8 inches of sight height. A different zero shifts the whole table. Enter your own zero in the Ballistics Calculator to regenerate it for your setup.

You Might Also Need

• Ballistics Calculator: run any load with your own velocity, zero, and conditions.
• Bullet Stability Calculator: confirm your 1:8 twist stabilizes these bullets in your air.
• MOA ↔ MIL Converter: switch any correction above between units.
• Ranging Calculator: range your target before you dial.