The Norma Whitetail 6.5 Japanese 156gr Soft Point rifle ammunition (MPN: 20166672) is engineered for classic military surplus rifles chambered in 6.5x50mmSR Arisaka, such as the Type 38. Loaded with a heavy 156-grain exposed lead-tip soft point projectile, this factory cartridge produces a muzzle velocity of 630 m/s (2,067 fps) and 2,004 J (1,480 ft-lb) of muzzle energy. Built with premium reloadable brass cases and a ballistic coefficient of 0.276 (G1), it provides reliable feeding, consistent ignition, and controlled expansion for hunting medium-to-large game at short-to-moderate field distances.

Key Features

• Controlled Terminal Expansion: The 156-grain soft point bullet features an exposed lead core designed to mushroom reliably and deliver deep penetration on medium-to-large game species.
• Optimised Historical Ballistics: Delivers a factory-rated muzzle velocity of 630 m/s (2,067 fps) with a recommended zeroing distance (MRD) of 125 metres.
• Premium Reloadable Brass: Manufactured to precise case tolerances, providing handloaders with high-grade brass cases for a hard-to-source vintage calibre.
• Downrange Energy Transfer: Retains 1,473 J of energy at 100 metres and 1,069 J at 200 metres to ensure effective performance across practical bush hunting ranges.

Specifications

• Calibre: 6.5x50mmSR Japanese (6.5 Jap / 6.5x51R Arisaka)
• Bullet Weight: 156 grains (10.1 grams)
• Bullet Type: Soft Point (SP)
• Ballistic Coefficient (G1): 0.276
• Muzzle Velocity: 630 m/s (2,067 fps)
• Muzzle Energy: 2,004 J (1,480 ft-lb)
• Velocity at 100m / 200m: 540 m/s / 460 m/s
• Energy at 100m / 200m: 1,473 J / 1,069 J
• Most Recommended Distance (MRD): 125 metres
• Case Material: Reloadable brass
• Package Quantity: 20 rounds per box
• Manufacturer Part Number: 20166672

Who is the Norma Whitetail 6.5 Jap 156gr SP for?

• Medium-to-large game hunters using vintage Arisaka rifles — Delivers 2,004 J (1,480 ft-lb) of muzzle energy and a heavy 156-grain soft point bullet designed for deep penetration and controlled expansion on game such as feral pigs, goats, and deer within 150 to 200 metres.
• Military surplus collectors and target shooters — Provides factory-loaded 6.5 Jap rifle ammunition generating a muzzle velocity of 630 m/s (2,067 fps) alongside premium, reloadable brass cases specifically dimensioned for historical 6.5x50mmSR chambers.

Less suitable for: Long-range shooting beyond 200 metres, where bullet velocity drops below 460 m/s and striking energy falls below 1,070 J; hunters and target shooters operating past this distance require dedicated high-velocity, modern long-range rifle calibres. This ammunition is strictly incompatible and unsafe for use in non-6.5x50mmSR chambers, including modern 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, or 6.5x55mm Swedish rifles.