I have been researching things going to rebarrel a savage. I am looking hard at the 6.5 swede proven hunting round, decent long range shooter in 6.5.
The 6.5x55 Swede is an outstanding platform with maybe one misgiving; long action. Personally, that doesn't bother me. You have a great source for brass (Lapua), high BC bullets, and recoil is easily managed by an experienced shooter. If you reload you can push 140gr bullets over 2,900fps. With the right set up, the 6.5x55 is a very capable long range weapon system and will harvest game way over yonder.