Dear Sirs:

Does anybody have experience with those bullets (196 gr) in 8X57 IS or 8X64S when used in medium game?

I have shot 196 grs SPCE S&B factory loads in my 8x64S for a couple of years now. I still have some of that ammo, and I want to finish it before I start using my handloads (which are considerably more accurate in my gun). The S&B factory loads run a modest 2500-2600 fps in my 22" barrel. That is probably comparable to what can be expected from an 8x57I(R)S.

I have mostly shot lighter game - light fallow, light pigs etc. My largest game to date with this ammo were pigs at about 80 kg dressed weight. I use the 8x64S because it is legal in France (unlike my beloved .30-06). Since driven hunting is what I do in France, that is how all my animals thus far have been shot (on drives). Consequently, I have not conducted detailed studies about how the bullets worked (penetration, amount of tissue destruction etc). But I must say, I have not had reason to be disappointed with the results thus far.

- mike

I've shot Impala and Gemsbok with the SPCE out of a 7x64mm, no issues at all!

Shot a Sambar stag high in the shoulder at about 35 metres. The bullet seperated from the core, but the animal dropped to the shot and did not move. Have also shot several fallow deer with the 8x64s using the s&B factory ammo and is quite accurate. However, I am now using the handloaded Barnes 160gn TTSX and find very effective and accurate.

tasso