6mm BR Ackley Improved (6mm BRA): Precision Evolved

For competitive shooters chasing the edge in precision rifle competitions, the 6mm BR Ackley Improved. Commonly known as the 6mm BRA — offers the perfect blend of accuracy, velocity, and consistency. Based on the legendary 6mm BR case, the Ackley Improved version features a steeper shoulder and less body taper, allowing for increased powder capacity and higher velocities.

It’s everything precision shooters love about the original 6mm BR — just turned up a notch.

Pros of the 6mm BR Ackley Improved

1. Increased Velocity with the Same Accuracy
The BRA retains the remarkable accuracy of the 6mm BR but offers 100–150 fps more velocity with similar bullet weights. That means flatter trajectories, improved wind performance, and better energy retention — all without sacrificing consistency.

2. Low Recoil, High BC Bullets
Despite the added speed, recoil remains soft. This allows shooters to stay on target, make fast follow-up shots, and spot their own impacts — crucial in PRS and NRL-style competitions.

3. Exceptional Reloading Flexibility
The 6mm BRA is a handloader’s dream. It has a forgiving pressure curve, generous brass life, and a massive library of load data available thanks to its popularity in the competition world. Most shooters run 105–110 grain match bullets like the Berger Hybrid or Hornady A-Tip.

4. Perfect for Custom Match Rifles
The BRA thrives in purpose-built match guns with fast-twist barrels (1:7.5–1:8). It’s compatible with single-feed actions and can also be optimized to feed from AICS magazines with the right tuning.

5. Proven on the Podium
The 6mm BRA is a frequent winner in the PRS and NRL circuits. It’s trusted by many of the top shooters in the world for good reason: it simply performs.

Cons of the 6mm BRA

1. Wildcat Status
Because it’s a wildcat cartridge, there’s no factory ammo available. You’ll need to handload, and forming brass requires fire-forming standard 6mm BR cases — though once fire-formed, the brass is durable and consistent.

2. Magazine Feeding Can Be Finicky
Like the original BR, the short case design can make feeding from box magazines a challenge. Most shooters solve this with custom followers, spacers, or use single-shot setups.

3. Specialized Rifle Required
You won’t find off-the-shelf rifles in 6mm BRA. A custom barrel and action are required, often chambered by a gunsmith familiar with precision wildcats — but that’s also part of what makes the BRA so elite.

4. Not a Hunting Cartridge
While it could technically be used on varmints or predators, the 6mm BRA is a purpose-built match round. If your goal is hunting versatility, this isn’t the right caliber.

Final Thoughts

The 6mm BR Ackley Improved is a masterclass in precision performance. For shooters who already appreciate what the 6mm BR can do, the BRA offers more speed, better wind resistance, and unmatched accuracy in the right hands. It’s not a cartridge for beginners — but for those competing at a high level or building a dream match gun, it’s one of the best tools available.

If you’re serious about ringing steel and stacking trophies, the 6mm BRA delivers the consistency and ballistics you need to win.

Ready to build your custom 6mm BRA competition rifle?
Viking Armament specializes in precision match rifles tailored to elite-level performance. Whether you’re chasing PRS points or building a tack-driver for 1,000-yard practice, we’ll help you create a rifle that fully unleashes the potential of the 6mm BR Ackley Improved. Contact us to get started.