6.5 Grendel on it's own merits

[meta_gabbro]

Bearing in mind that I'm a primarily a hunter, the couple times that I've been asked why I like the cartridge so much I usually wind up comparing it to the 243. Folks here are making loads in 18" barrels that match classic 243 loads out of 24" barrels, with 25-35% less powder, and in smaller and lighter guns. It's cheaper to practice with than a 243, and it's less of a barrel burner. I understand that it's not everyone's cup of tea, especially the if-it-aint-broke-dont-fix-it crowd that'll stick to the tried and true standbys, but for folks who appreciate effective cartridges in handy guns it really deserves a hard look.