Best 6.5 Creedmoor Magazines

The last decade has seen a tremendous increase in gun club memberships and growth in competitive shooting competition participants. Long hours at the range have become a popular pastime for those honing their shooting skills, looking for an excuse to spend time with their family, or gathering socially after a day of work. As have competitive shooting sports due to the general accepting atmosphere and the chance to learn about both shooting and various weapon calibers. 

Because of this, there has been a growing interest in customizing weapon builds and various cartridges that once were not as sought after, are gaining in popularity. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge in particular has become a sought after 6.5mm round as it is highly accurate, and comfortable to shoot. 

For custom built rifles, this is an excellent choice, and has become a perfect choice for shooting sports due to these details. However, it also doesn’t take long to shoot your way through a 30 round magazine. Save yourself time and trouble and have a few extra 6.5 Creedmoor magazines on hand to fit your needs and avoid interrupting your shooting times. 

Comparison Table of The 7 Best 6.5 Creedmoor Magazines

IMAGE

D&H Industries, Inc. - AR .308 6.5 Creedmoor Magazines Black

BRAND

D&H Industries, Inc. – AR .308 6.5 Creedmoor Magazines Black

DETAILS

  • Capacity: 5, 10, 20
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Semi-Auto

Pricing

Check-Mate Industries - Springfield M1A 10RD Magazine 308 Winchester

BRAND

Check-Mate Industries – Springfield M1A 10RD Magazine 308 Winchester

DETAILS

  • Capacity: 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Semi-Auto
Accurate MAG - AICS Pattern Magazine S/A Double Stack Single Fire 6.5 Creedmoor

BRAND

Accurate MAG – AICS Pattern Magazine S/A Double Stack Single Fire 6.5 Creedmoor

DETAILS

  • Capacity: 5, 10
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Bolt Action
Magpul - Short Action AICS 10RD Pmag AC Magazine 308 Winchester

BRAND

Magpul – Short Action AICS 10RD Pmag AC Magazine 308 Winchester

DETAILS

  • Capacity: 10
  • Material: Polymer
  • Action type: Bolt Action
Savage - Savage Arms 10FC/11FC 4RD Magazine 6.5 Creedmoor

BRAND

Savage – Savage Arms 10FC/11FC 4RD Magazine 6.5 Creedmoor

DETAILS

  • Capacity: 4
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Bolt Action
Accurate MAG - Short Action AICS Magazine 308 Winchester

BRAND

Accurate MAG – Short Action AICS Magazine 308 Winchester

DETAILS

  • Capacity: 5, 10
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Bolt Action
Springfield Armory - Springfield M1A/M14 Magazine 308 Winchester 10RD Steel Black

BRAND

Springfield Armory – Springfield M1A/M14 Magazine 308 Winchester 10RD Steel Black

DETAILS

  • Capacity: 5, 10, 20
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Semi-Auto

The 6.5 Creedmoor Popularity Explained

US ARMY M-16 rifle magazine with cartridges on camouflage uniform background

A 6.5 Creedmoor, or 6.5 CM for short, is a cartridge born of a 6.5 Carcano and the .30 TC influence. It has strong characteristics of the .308 Winchester, but is a more comfortable, accurate round altogether. 

The idea of the 6.5 CM came after a long, frustrating day of shooting by competitive shooters who were tired of high recoil and barrel wear with a .30 caliber choice. They envisioned something better and made a list of needs; these needs included a magazine length for rapid fire, light recoil, promotion of barrel life, and being easy to reload (to name a few)- and thus the 6.5 CM was born. Or rather the idea, that is. It would still take a few years to develop, test, name, and introduce through top manufacture Hornady.

The details of this list led to its creation however, and resulted in an option providing a caliber that outperforms a .308, has the same trajectory of a .300 Win with 40% of the recoil, and has incredible energy left 800+ yards down the range. Plus, it’s easy to reload (for all you reloading enthusiasts). 

Awesome for competitive shooting (or just some fun plinking), this accuracy and power also makes it ideal for hunting. And, it works across a wide range of rifle preferences-  including bolt-action and AR platform rifles, as well as tactical/AR hybrid bolt rifles.  

When One Magazine Isn’t Enough

When hunting, you most likely aren’t too worried about reloading. Afterall, you only need one good shot. But it’s a very different scenario when you are shooting competitively, or plan on turning a sighting session into an impromptu match between friends. When this happens, you hardly want to stop to reload your magazines, which is why magazines are one of the top accessory picks for most gun owners. 

Spare Magazine Benefits

magazine

Magazines take a lot of abuse. They are typically knocked around, jammed into place, and have a spring under almost constant compression. Plus, their design leaves them open to dirt and debris (and no matter how hard to avoid dropping them, you KNOW you have). In time they might not work exactly like you want them to, which can lead to malfunctions. When you have a spare on hand, you can quickly remove our current magazine and replace it to troubleshoot later. This is especially important if you have a hunting kill shot ready, or are shooting competitively. 

For these same reasons, you’ll always have more rounds ready to fire within seconds. For an accurate shot, you might not need it, but if you are new to competition, or getting the feel of a new rifle, this can be incredibly helpful to have handy to avoid having to stop and reload, which may cost you valuable time. 

Whatever your shooting course of action is, extra magazines provide you what you need for however many targets you have. 

Choosing a 6.5 CM Compatible Magazine

There are, of course, a few details you may want to take into account when on the hunt for the perfect magazine. Afterall, you want a dependable product that serves as backup, and works as well, or better than the one you already have. 

Two magazines that hold thirty rounds for a modern sporting rifle

Durable Materials and Make

What your magazine is made from and what it looks like are all important details. You want a strong option that is able to withstand heavy use. A good finish can help it looking its best, plus you may want to make sure it matches our existing weapon body. 

Easy Feeding

Obviously, you want a magazine that is easy to load, as well as being easy loading. Smooth feeding of your rounds into the chamber is a must for your shooting pleasure, and safety. 

Size Options

Magazines come in various size options. If you want a quick reload that helps lighten your experience – try a 5 round option. Looking to provide long-lasting shooting experiences? Try a 30 round option. 

Top 7 of the 6.5 Creedmoor Magazine Reviews

Like most ammunition, the size and scope of the round is modeled after existing rounds, making various rifle components compatible with the load. It is incredibly important to always check the specifications of the ammunition your particular rifle can use, however, to avoid costly and dangerous mishaps. 

The magazines that work with your AR style or hybrid rifle also need to be a good match, and since there are few magazines specific for the 6.5 CM, you can also check out many .308 Winchester magazines as the round is designed to the same size mag specs. 

1. D&H Industries, Inc. – AR .308 6.5 Creedmoor Magazines Black

D&H Industries, Inc. - AR .308 6.5 Creedmoor Magazines Black
  • Capacity: 5, 10, 20
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Semi-Auto

One of the few magazines made specifically for the 6.5 CM to chamber in your AR-10 build. It also obviously takes a .308 without issue, but you should never mix and match the different rounds in your magazine. Available in 5, 10, and 20 round mags, they are easily identifiable from other magazines due to the red integral box. Easy to load and with a smooth feed, this option is made from durable steel and black finish.  

Who This Is For

If you hate (or worry) about grabbing the wrong magazine, this design is a surefire way to make sure you have your 6.5 Cm each and every time. 

PROS

  • Easy to load and locks in wonderfully well
  • Awesome under all shooting conditions
  • Perfect for competitive shooting and reliable

CONS

  • Might be a little tight in an AR10

2. Check-Mate Industries – Springfield M1A 10RD Magazine 308 Winchester

Check-Mate Industries - Springfield M1A 10RD Magazine 308 Winchester
  • Capacity: 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Semi-Auto

It was a hard pick to choose between our top two, but the red integral box gives the D&H Industries a slight advantage. Available in 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 round capacities, these magazines are made from a durable steel with a black finish. They also have a 20 round stainless steel as well. The welded design and wound spring helps make it a dependable option for reliable feeding. It also comes with a removable floor plate to allow easier cleaning, and longer life!

Who This Is For

This is an especially nice pick if you want a good selection of round capabilities. Everything about this design screams quality, and adding this to your collection of accessories would not be amiss.

PROS

  • Mil-Spec 
  • Floorplate is easy to remove for cleaning
  • Feeds incredibly smooth

CONS

  • Not a free drop, so may fit a little tight

3. Accurate MAG – AICS Pattern Magazine S/A Double Stack Single Fire 6.5 Creedmoor

Accurate MAG - AICS Pattern Magazine S/A Double Stack Single Fire 6.5 Creedmoor
  • Capacity: 5, 10
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Bolt Action

If your bolt action rifle has been converted to take an AICS box mag, then you know when hunting a 5 load limit is law. This double stack, single fire magazine is the perfect choice to fit your purpose-built AICS-pattern rifle. Made from steel, and with a heat-treated nitride finish, this is a durable, long lasting finish. Available in both 5 and 10 round capacities, it is just about everything you need out in the field. 

Who This Is For

This is a great option for hunters who carry an AICS pattern rifle. Designed to change out easily and quickly, you can stay legal all while having the capabilities of a smooth loading round. 

PROS

  • Feeds fast and efficiently
  • Makes magazine swaps simple and easy
  • Looks great and fits AICS patterns great

CONS

  • A little hard to load

4. Magpul – Short Action AICS 10RD Pmag AC Magazine 308 Winchester

Magpul - Short Action AICS 10RD Pmag AC Magazine 308 Winchester
  • Capacity: 10
  • Material: Polymer
  • Action type: Bolt Action

Magpul is a top accessory manufacturer and their products are quality efforts. They make a healthy range of various magazines that hold different amounts of rounds and fit the 6.5 CM perfectly, but we like the grip design of this particular model. Capable of holding 10 rounds, it is made for your AICS pattern, bolt action rifle from a hardened polymer – making it easy to grip without worry of slipping. 

Who This Is For

The 10 round mag is a perfect option for home defense and competitive shooting. Lightweight and incredibly easy to change out while on the go, this is a top pick. 

PROS

  • Smooth action and very durable
  • Super easy to grip and change out
  • Perfect capacity for shooting sports

CONS

  • May take some time to break in 

5. Savage – Savage Arms 10FC/11FC 4RD Magazine 6.5 Creedmoor

Savage - Savage Arms 10FC/11FC 4RD Magazine 6.5 Creedmoor
  • Capacity: 4
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Bolt Action

This is another excellent AICS patterned rifle magazine option perfect for taking out to bag the perfect hunt. Capable of holding 4 rounds, it sits flush with your barrel for a comfortable, smooth operating load. The durable welded steel and spring are designed for flawless, efficient use. Compact, efficient, and quality materials make this a top pick for your hunting needs. 

Who This Is For

This is the compact mag you need for hunting. It is an excellent, versatile choice and perfect for staying legal while on the hunt when you own an AICS patterned rifle. 

PROS

  • Smooth loading
  • Sits flush for a clean, sleek look
  • Durable built and easy to load

CONS

  • Only 4 rounds, versus the 5 you are legally allowed while hunting

6. Accurate MAG – Short Action AICS Magazine 308 Winchester

Accurate MAG - Short Action AICS Magazine 308 Winchester
  • Capacity: 5, 10
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Bolt Action

Accurate Mag has designed a black teflon finished magazine for your AICS patterned rifle that has awesome caliber compatibility. Available in both a 5 and 10 load capacity, these provide a great option for hunting, competitive shooting, plinking, and home defense. Considered easy to load and incredible slick to feed, it is an accurate, durable option for longer cartridge feeds. Heavy duty steel, detailed to avoid sharp lips allows you to drop and replace it in just seconds without handling worries. 

Who This Is For

Highly compatible, these can help expand your shooting experience with your AICS bolt action rifle build. Accurate and built to last, they are a great choice for hunting and other shooting sports. 

PROS

  • Feeds incredibly smooth and slick
  • Durable construction and easy to handle
  • Functions flawlessly and loads quickly

CONS

  • 10 load may have some shell scoring issues due to tight spring

7. Springfield Armory – Springfield M1A/M14 Magazine 308 Winchester 10RD Steel Black

Springfield Armory - Springfield M1A/M14 Magazine 308 Winchester 10RD Steel Black
  • Capacity: 5, 10, 20
  • Material: Steel
  • Action type: Semi-Auto

Springfield Armory wants you to know they have you AR build hunters covered with their 5 capacity magazine to ensure your legality while out in the woods. Available in a 5, 10, or 20 round magazine option, you are covered for whatever shooting plans you have. This high strength, steel magazine has a powder black coated finish and provides a sleek look and smooth operation. There are also 2 lengths of the 5 capacity mag. One is designed for flush fit, and the other is not- allowing you to more easily personalize your experience. 

Who This Is For

When you need the ability to swap out your AR magazines and hate the idea of having various brands that change the overall feel, Spring Armory has you covered. It also has a removable floorplate.

PROS

  • Excellent fit and not rubbing of magazine
  • Easy loading and excellent feeding
  • Great price point for a quality product

CONS

  • It’s hard to pick the best size and you may get them all

Conclusion

The popularity of this powerful round, and its increasing presence in competitive shooting and hunting capacities, makes it a top contender for many gun enthusiasts. Because of its design, it is compatible with many gun parts and accessories, but you do need to always take care to check the round will fire safely with what you are using.The 6.5 CM is a dialed down .308, which allows you to use a magazine designed for the larger round without issue. And, most magazines designed specifically for the 6.5 also easily accept the .308 due to this. 

It’s hard to choose a best magazine for your 6.5 Creedmoor shooting experience when they are supported by so many options. These top picks provide a great variety of both semi-auto and bolt-action choices that also happen to come in a great array of capacities to allow you the ability to move from one shooting sport to the next -without compromising the feel of your experience.