I know that the specs for the 6.5x55 Swede call for a slightly larger than standard boltface (larger than 0.473", like 0.480 or there abouts). If I wanted to, say, rebarrel a Savage long action with a standard bolt face to 6.5x55, would I have to have the bolt face opened up, or is there enough tolerance to accommodate the very slightly larger rim of the Swede?

Also, I recall reading that some makers of 6.5x55 brass actually use the standard 0.473" rim diameter. If so, which brand(s) of brass so this.

I want to get my wife a hunting rifle. I was thinking a 243 Win, but I have a Savage 111 in .30-06 that is too much for her to handle recoil wise, and I really am not interested in the reduced recoil ammo. I'd be between trading it for a .243, or rebarreling it to whatever. Because Savages are easy to rebarrel, it might be the more economical choice, especially since she likes the gun except for the caliber. It also would be nice to give her a semi-custom rifle that would be all her own.

The 6.5x55 is a great mid-level cartridge that doesn't kick much, but packs a wallop greater than the numbers say it should. Being a handloader, ammo won't cost any more than any other mid-level round, so I'm not adverse to going slightly exotic (I also own a .257 Wby, which is hellishly expensive if you shoot factory ammo).

I'm just concerned that it'll be a lot more involved than a simple barrel swap.

Also, the Savage has the newer style center-feed detachable magazine. Would this likely feed 6.5-55 cartridges well, or would it probably need to be modified?

Mike