6.5 x 55 Swedish CUP/psi ratings

Question
I'm trying to understand why the pressures and velocities for this cartridge are so low.  The cartridge has a case capacity equal to or greater than that of a 308W,  but the listed loads and velocities are a lot lower.  I do understand that commercial retail loads are lower to support use in old Swedish Mausers that can not take the pressures of the newer modern rifles.  Are the newer rifles really built to only take the same pressures as the older rifles (45K CUP)?  I'm looking at getting a new 6.5, but am concerned because of the lower velocities for the heavier rounds (140/160 grain).  I was considering a 308, but don't want to go there because of the heavier recoil.  The ballistics seem to be the same or better if the velocities for the 6.5 could be higher.  

Answer
Hi Kent,

If I understand your question correctly, you have also answered it.

The lower velocity/pressure loads was designed to be used in the older vintage rifles. Norma and Hornady both offer the "hotter" loads in the 6.5X55 but stress they NOT be used in the older military type actions.

The 6.5X55 does list some pretty impressive ballistic numbers. It is able to do so due to the long bullet style coupled with modern day velocities and pressures.

That said, I personally would not get to hung up on this issue. The information on paper does not always reflect the rounds potential.

Several years ago (too many!) I killed a 240lb. black bear with a 6.5x55 Remington 700 Classic with no problem what so ever. The bear never knew that it wasn't getting shot with a "hot-rod" round and fell very dead within 15 yards.

I hope this helps and thanks for the question Kent.
Sid Lark