Is 6.5x47 Lapua Ammo Bad in a Magazine? A Deep Dive into Reliability and Compatibility
The question of whether 6.5x47 Lapua ammunition is "bad" in a magazine is nuanced and depends heavily on several factors. It's not inherently bad, but its performance can vary significantly based on magazine design, ammunition specifics, and even environmental conditions. Let's break down the key considerations:
Understanding the 6.5x47 Lapua Cartridge
The 6.5x47 Lapua is a high-performance cartridge known for its exceptional accuracy and long-range capabilities. However, this performance comes with some trade-offs. The cartridge's relatively long, tapered case and high pressure can present challenges for magazine feeding reliability.
Factors Affecting Reliability in Magazines
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Magazine Design: This is arguably the most critical factor. Magazines designed specifically for the 6.5x47 Lapua will generally provide reliable feeding. These often incorporate features like:
- Robust construction: High-quality materials and precise tolerances reduce the chances of malfunctions.
- Optimized follower design: A correctly designed follower helps guide rounds smoothly into the chamber.
- Appropriate spring tension: Sufficient spring tension ensures reliable feeding, even with a full magazine.
- Specific feed lip geometry: This crucial element guides the cartridges onto the bolt face without tilting or jamming.
Conversely, using magazines not explicitly designed for 6.5x47 Lapua can lead to frequent feeding problems. Magazines intended for other cartridges, even those with similar dimensions, may not possess the necessary features for reliable operation with this specific round.
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Ammunition Specifications: The length and overall consistency of the ammunition play a role. While all 6.5x47 Lapua rounds should conform to standards, variations in cartridge overall length (COL) can influence feeding. Ammunition with longer COLs may experience more issues than shorter ones. Additionally, the bullet shape and seating depth can impact how smoothly the round feeds.
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Environmental Conditions: Extreme temperatures can affect magazine spring tension and cartridge case dimensions, potentially leading to feeding malfunctions. Dust, dirt, or debris can also obstruct the magazine's mechanism, hindering reliable operation.
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Rifle Compatibility: While not directly related to the magazine, the rifle's action and bolt design affect feeding. A rifle with a tight chamber or poorly designed bolt lift can exacerbate any feeding problems originating from the magazine.
Troubleshooting and Solutions
If you experience feeding issues with 6.5x47 Lapua ammunition, consider the following steps:
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Verify Magazine Compatibility: Ensure you're using a magazine specifically designed and rated for the 6.5x47 Lapua cartridge.
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Inspect Ammunition: Check the cartridges for any defects or inconsistencies that might affect feeding.
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Clean Your Rifle and Magazine: A clean rifle and magazine are essential for reliable operation. Remove any dirt, debris, or lubrication build-up.
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Check Spring Tension: If the magazine spring is weak, replace it.
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Consider Professional Help: If you've exhausted all other troubleshooting options, consult a qualified gunsmith. They can assess the rifle, magazine, and ammunition for any underlying mechanical problems.
Conclusion
In summary, 6.5x47 Lapua ammo isn't inherently "bad" in a magazine. However, compatibility is paramount. Using the correct, high-quality magazine specifically designed for this cartridge is crucial for reliable feeding. Understanding the influencing factors and troubleshooting techniques outlined above can significantly improve your shooting experience with this powerful cartridge.
