6.5x55 Lapua brass

[fwt1712]

Does anyone have experience of using Lapua brass in 6.5x55 in a Rem 700 with a standard 308 boltface and extractor.

While this might seem to be an obscure question I understand that there is some variation between case head sizes of Lapua/European brass (a bit bigger than 308) and most US brass (the same as 308s) - anywhere from 3 to 7 thou according to the books I have.

These differences would seem certain to require different shell holders but will these cases work with a standard Rem 700 308 faced action i.e. I assume the casehead will fit but will the extractor cope with the different diameter and other dimensions of the Lapua brass.

thanks,
Nigel.

ps is it worthwhile going to a 6.5x55 over a 7-08 (for which I have dies etc.). I am looking at reducing my recoil levels without going to a BR (or 260).

[ajj]

I had no problem. Pm me your snail mail address and I'll send you a couple of cases to check.
I'm a fan of the 6.5x55 but don't feel experienced enough to answer your question. With careful bullet and powder choice there probably isn't much difference in the recoil of effective short-line loads and the heavier 7mm bullets may be some small advantage on rams.

[Gringo Grizzly]

BEWARE!

I've had 2 M700's that would not reliably handle the slightly larger case head diameter of the Lapua brass.
A shooting acquaintence of mine - also a HP Sil shooter - had the same problem, and ended up using Remington Brass.

Before doing this, send me your address and I'll send a few empty Lapua 6.5x55 cases for you to try BEFORE you commit.

If they don't work well with your existing bolt face, you could still use the lapua brass if you have a smith do a little bit of reaming on the inside of walls of your bolt face.

You can contact me at grbuss@yahoo.com.
Gringo