bdyal1972
Well-Known Member
I would prefer to convert the .25-06 to a 6.5-06 or a 6.5-06 AI (Ackley Improved). Same size .473.
The Ruger M77 MKII is a controlled feed bolt gun, & in .25-06 is of the length for .30-06 rounds
As mentioned the bolt face would need to be opened up and the extractor modified, an extra expense. The hardened steel bolt face requires some attention to open up.
The magazine box would need to be replaced with a magnum type. Comparing the .30-06 magazine boxes with 7 Rem Mag boxes it can be noticed that the mag box is fatter and the follower slightly wider. The stock would need minor modifications to accept the fatter mag box.
The 6.5-06 is a high performance round and is very popular meaning easy obtained brass using .25-06, .270, & .30-06 and relatively low cost dies. Lots of reload data available.
The AI (Ackley Improved) version gets about 100 fps more velocity but requires fire forming and additional expense dies.
Both rounds like H1000, RL26 with 140 grain bullets and RL23, H4831 with 120-123's and H4350, RL16 with 100's. More than adequate big game performance with 140's, fine long range yote/chuck with 120-123, and real good splat factor with 100's (3400 fps) but no prairie dog gun.
I would suggest, if more is needed than a 6.5-06 get a rifle chambered for a real big 6.5.
6.5 06 AI
YEEHAWWWWW
HAD ONE WITH A 28" KRIEGER
SHOT FASTER THAN MY 26" 264!!!!
LOVED THAT RIFLE
INSTANT DEATH ON BLACKTAILS OUT TO OVER 600YDS WITH BARNES BULLETS 20+ YEARS AGO
WAS AWESOME, LOVED MULTIPLE POWDERS.....