When it comes to big game hunting, selecting the right rifle caliber can make all the difference in your success. From bullet drop and recoil to long-range performance and terminal energy, your choice of caliber directly affects how you hunt and what you bring home. Among the most trusted options for serious hunters are the .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor—both renowned for their accuracy, power, and versatility in the field.
ICB Firearms know that caliber selection is more than personal preference—it’s about matching your gear to your hunting environment and goals. In this guide, we break down the key differences between these two top contenders to help you decide which round belongs in your rifle this season.
A Quick History of Both Rounds
The .308 Winchester was introduced in 1952 as a civilian version of the military’s 7.62x51mm NATO round. Over the decades, it’s become one of the most widely used hunting and sniping cartridges in the world. Its reliability, power, and widespread availability make it a favorite among seasoned hunters.
The 6.5 Creedmoor is a relative newcomer, developed by Hornady in 2007. Originally designed for long-range competition shooting, its excellent ballistic performance and mild recoil have earned it a strong following in the hunting world, especially among those targeting game at extended ranges.
Ballistics Breakdown: Speed, Drop & Energy
Velocity & Trajectory
In the field, velocity affects not only bullet drop but also terminal performance.
- The 6.5 Creedmoor generally launches bullets in the 120–143 grain range at velocities between 2,700–2,900 feet per second (fps).
- The .308 Winchester typically fires heavier bullets, ranging from 150 to 180 grains, at 2,600–2,800 fps.
Despite the similar velocities, the 6.5 Creedmoor benefits from a higher ballistic coefficient. This means it slices through the air more efficiently, maintaining velocity better and exhibiting less bullet drop over longer distances.
Energy on Impact
Big game hunting demands that a bullet deliver enough energy to penetrate deeply and create a devastating wound channel.
- At the muzzle, the .308 often produces 2,500–2,700 foot-pounds (ft-lbs) of energy, making it a powerhouse at short to mid-range.
- The 6.5 Creedmoor delivers slightly less energy—around 2,300–2,500 ft-lbs—but its high sectional density enables deep penetration, even at extended ranges.
Verdict: If you’re shooting at long distances or in open country, the 6.5 Creedmoor provides an edge with its flatter trajectory and excellent wind resistance. For dense woods and shorter-range encounters, the .308 Winchester delivers hard-hitting energy where it counts.
Recoil & Shooter Comfort
Recoil isn’t just a matter of comfort—it also affects shot accuracy and follow-up potential.
- The 6.5 Creedmoor has a noticeably lighter recoil, making it ideal for younger hunters, smaller-framed shooters, or anyone planning to spend long hours behind the rifle.
- The .308 Winchester delivers a firmer kick, especially when using heavier bullets or in lighter rifles. While it’s manageable for most hunters, it can lead to fatigue over time.
Reduced recoil improves confidence and accuracy, especially in high-pressure hunting scenarios. If you value comfort and precision, 6.5 Creedmoor has the edge here.
Ammo Availability & Rifle Selection
In terms of availability, the .308 is still king. Its widespread military and civilian use has resulted in extensive ammunition choices, ranging from budget hunting loads to match-grade rounds. You’ll find .308 ammo almost anywhere in the U.S., including smaller shops and remote locations.
The 6.5 Creedmoor is catching up rapidly. Nearly every major ammo manufacturer now offers high-quality hunting rounds in 6.5, though it may not be as readily available in backcountry stores. Rifles chambered in both calibers are offered by all major gun makers.
Verdict: If reliability and availability matter most, especially in remote areas, go with .308 Winchester. If you’re okay planning ahead and paying a bit more, the 6.5 Creedmoor delivers excellent value.
Terminal Performance on Big Game
Let’s talk real-world stopping power. Both calibers are suitable for deer, antelope, wild boar, and even larger animals like elk when paired with the right bullet.
- .308 performs best at close-to-mid ranges (0–400 yards), offering heavy, expanding bullets that create wide wound channels and provide effective knockdown power.
- 6.5 Creedmoor, while slightly lighter in energy, shines at longer distances (300–700 yards), where its penetration and retained velocity can outmatch the .308 in wind drift and drop.
Bullet Choice Matters
For either caliber, bullet selection is critical when targeting big game:
- For .308: Consider Nosler Partition, Federal Fusion, or Hornady InterLock for controlled expansion.
- For 6.5 Creedmoor: Opt for Hornady ELD-X, Barnes TTSX, or Nosler AccuBond for deep penetration and high weight retention.
Real-World Scenarios
Choose .308 Winchester if:
- You frequently hunt in wooded or mountainous terrain with short sight lines.
- You want a proven round with wide availability and hard-hitting energy at mid-range.
- You’re using semi-auto platforms like AR-10s or classic bolt actions.
Choose 6.5 Creedmoor if:
- You hunt in open fields, plains, or alpine terrain where long-range precision is key.
- You prefer low recoil for quick follow-ups or youth shooters.
- You routinely shoot past 300 yards and need flat trajectory and wind resistance.
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?
Both the .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor are stellar performers in the big game world. Your ideal choice depends on the terrain you hunt, your typical shot distance, and your personal shooting style.
To recap:
- Go with .308 if you value versatility, ammo accessibility, and power at close to mid-range.
- Choose 6.5 Creedmoor if you want long-range precision, lighter recoil, and modern ballistic performance.
Regardless of which you pick, the most important factors are shot placement, bullet choice, and familiarity with your rifle. With practice and preparation, either caliber will help you fill your freezer this season.